Podcasts about public education

Nancy Loome, executive director of The Parents' Campaign public education advocacy group counters many points proponents are making in their push for more school choice in Mississippi. Loome says siphoning public money for private schools would provide no benefit to Mississippi students or taxpayers and that state leaders should instead focus on sustaining and expanding education gains made in recent years. She said opposition to school choice from parents on both sides of the political aisle in Mississippi is growing.

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Sadly, it seems that public education is more about learning what to think rather than how to think. Based on many of the discussions I've had across the country, critical thinking seems to be a skill many Americans have lost. I believe G.K. Chesterton once described our situation perfectly: “When men choose not to believe in God, they do not thereafter...

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Sadly, it seems that public education is more about learning what to think rather than how to think. Based on many of the discussions I've had across the country, critical thinking seems to be a skill many Americans have lost. I believe G.K. Chesterton once described our situation perfectly: “When men choose not to believe in God, they do not thereafter...

When Corey Rosser decided to lead by being his authentic self, everything changed. Now, as the 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year, the North Branch Area Public Schools educator joins MISoundBoard to share how connection, honesty, and heart have shaped his journey.

In this week's episode of The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and Walter Blanks of the American Federation for Children interview Prof. Robert Maranto and Sean Woytek co-authors of the Education Next piece, “Why Academically Intensive Charter Schools Deserve Our Attention.” They explore how rigorous charter school networks like BASIS Ed have achieved exceptional outcomes and what their success can teach policymakers and educators nationwide about improving academic performance nationwide. Maranto and Woytek trace BASIS's origins to 1998, when it opened with 56 students in Tuscon, Arizona. Today, the network operates 40 schools across five states, consistently ranking among the nation's top performers. Despite these results, Maranto and Woytek note that “Academically Intensive Charter Schools” (AICS) remain largely overlooked, even as national reading and math scores continue to decline. They explain how AICS differ from specialized or “No Excuses” charter models by emphasizing broad, rigorous academics and high expectations for all students. Spending roughly $12,350 per student—far less than traditional public schools—AICS achieve remarkable academic outcomes and demonstrate strong accountability. Maranto and Woytek conclude by urging educators and policymakers to recognize, study, and replicate the AICS model to expand access to high-quality, academically rigorous education across the country.

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Perhaps the answer isn't that the schools aren't performing, but that their goals have changed. Perhaps the goal of public education is not to lift children up to a basic level of citizenship, but to “educate” them down to the lowest common denominator. Perhaps that explains why children who can recite the latest TikTok craze cannot read about it on X...

The Constitution Study with Host Paul Engel – Perhaps the answer isn't that the schools aren't performing, but that their goals have changed. Perhaps the goal of public education is not to lift children up to a basic level of citizenship, but to “educate” them down to the lowest common denominator. Perhaps that explains why children who can recite the latest TikTok craze cannot read about it on X...

October 1, 2025 City Club event description: Speakers Honorable Kimberly A. Lightford In January 2019, Kimberly A. Lightford made history when she became the firstBlack woman to serve as Illinois' Senate Majority Leader. This 104th General Assembly marks 26 years of her continued dedication to her career of championing her passion for education and youth development. As […]

Moira Kaleida has a degree in education from Penn State University, and has combined her academic knowledge and lived experience (as a student, teacher, parent, school board member, and wife of a teacher) to beat the drum of public education across Pennsylvania. In 2015, Moira was elected to serve on the Pittsburgh Public School Board, leading the policy and government relations committees. As a school board member, Moira was able to pass critical policies at the local level, with the help of the local AROS affiliated group (Great Public Schools Pittsburgh), including providing LGBTQIA+ protections for students, a “Sanctuary School's” policy, a pre-K to 2nd grade suspension ban, and the creation and implementation of the first Community Schools Policy and corresponding opening of the first three community schools in the city. Professionally, Moira has served as Chief of Staff for a City Council member and a State Representative in PA. She has also worked in a variety of organizing roles in the political, electoral, and education justice settings. Most recently before arriving at AROS, she was proud to organize with Pittsburgh's own 412 Justice. In 2022, Moira joined the inaugural board of Keystone Equality, advancing civil rights for LGBTQIA+ Pennsylvanians through voter mobilization, electoral advocacy, and political organizing.

As the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference approaches, we're excited to share a conversation with one of our keynote speakers who will be joining us in Traverse City. In this episode, leadership consultant and author George Couros discusses practical ways to foster innovative mindsets in public education—and how to bring everyone along on the journey.

Guest Andrew Handel, American Legislative Exchange Council, joins to discuss latest report nationwide of states with successful education, and states with not so successful education systems. Discussion of how much money is spent, reasons for a decrease in education quality, strain on higher education, and more.  Did President Trump finally find leverage over the threats of a government shutdown from the left? Discussion of left wing power over budget process, government spending concerns, and Trump looking to cut federal employees. 

Meet Caitlin Jiral, the new principal at Jack Elementary! From classroom teacher to assistant principal, Caitlin has worn many hats in education. Now, as principal, she's focused on making a broader impact while staying grounded in what teachers and students truly need. She also shares her vision for returning to the Leader in Me program basics and how it will shape Jack Elementary's future.Support the showFOOTER: If you want to hear more news about the district, download our app in the app store or sign up for our district newsletter at get.TylerISD.news.

Steven Rue, a class of 2003 alumnus who is the Construction & Street Maintenance Engineer for the City of Omaha, joins host Josh Bucy for episode 22 of Eagle Tales.

Send us a textThis week we're talking with the Georgia Foundation of Early Care and Learning about a new round of Early Literacy Alignment Mini-Grants. With up to $5,000 in funding, these grants bring public elementary schools and local child care programs together to foster innovative, vertically aligned literacy practices.  Joining us to talk about the Early Literacy Alignment Mini-Grants is Laura Wagner, Executive Director of the Georgia Foundation for Early Care and Learning, and Paige Buzbee, Executive Director of the Georgia Foundation for Public Education. Support the show

Lots of talk about what direction young adults should take after they graduate high school.

On this bonus episode of TASBOcast, we share insights and updates on the certification program with Chief Certification Officer Becky Estrada. We also bring Matt Fulmer, Director of Instructional Design. He'll get in depth on how elearning courses are developed and the concepts used to enhance the learning experience. 

We are joined by Randi Weingarten, the President of the American Federation of Teachers, to discuss her new book, “Why Fascists Fear Teachers: Public Education and the Future of Democracy.” In the book, Weingarten details how there has been a systematic demonization of teachers and public education in America. She argues that one of the pillars of public education is critical thinking, which prevents fascism from flourishing in society - so fascists (and wannabe fascists) hate it. We explore a variety of topics facing schoolchildren and their parents today, including charter schools, artificial intelligence, phones in schools, and the treatment of LGBTQ+ students. We also discuss Trump's proposed elimination of the Department of Education, attacks on teachers unions, and how we may have kept the schools closed for too long during Covid-19. READ Randi's new book: https://sites.prh.com/whyfascistsfearteachers

The Dean's List with Host Dean Bowen – Parents continue to lose faith in American public education as satisfaction survey reaches a new low. Gallup's Megan Brenan wrote in a news release that “Only about one-quarter of Americans think K-12 schools are headed in the right direction, while just one in five rate them as ‘excellent' or ‘good' at preparing students for today's jobs, and one in three say the same for college.”

Back-to-school supplies are getting more expensive … so why are parents and teachers at public schools expected to foot the bill? Today on the show: An economist explains how the cost of school supplies fits into the larger history of public school funding, and what one school district is doing differently. Related episodes: A food fight over free school lunch Mailbag: Children Edition For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET. Brad is first joined by Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). They discuss her brand new book, "Why Fascists Fear Teachers. Public Education and the Future of Democracy."  The book's Publisher, Penguin House, describes it as "A rousing defense of public education as the cornerstone of American democracy, by the woman attacked by the far right as “the most dangerous person in the world” Attacks on schools and teachers have long been a hallmark of fascist regimes: Throughout history, as many dictators rose to power they began banning books and controlling curriculum. Fascists fear teachers because teachers foster an educated and empowered population that can see past propaganda and scare tactics. Fascists fear teachers because they teach young people how to think for themselves. Drawing on history, stories from teachers on the front lines, and decades of experience with America's public schools, Weingarten argues that teaching students to think critically is the key to defeating would-be dictators. She encourages teachers to continue focusing on their vital mission to help young people thrive." The book is available for purchase here: https://sites.prh.com/whyfascistsfearteachers During the second half of the show, Brad is joined by Sara Haghdoosti and she is the Executive Director of Win Without War, a diverse network of activists and organizations working towards a progressive U.S. foreign policy. She details the dangers of militarizing local law enforcement, and what it means for everyday people that the President is willing to position troops in American cities to enforce his own agenda (with Memphis, TN just the latest). Based just outside of Chicago, Sara also speaks to what the local community is experiencing right now as Trump targets the city. Sara also talks about her organization's ‘Know Your Rights Campaign' for military service members that do not want to follow unlawful orders from the Trump administration: https://winwithoutwar.org/win-without-war-launches-notwhatyousignedupfor-org-for-members-of-the-military-during-trumps-authoritarian-crackdown/  Finally, Brad and Sara talk foreign policy, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the Trump administration's controversial airstrike on a Venezuelan boat that Trump claims contained drug smugglers transporting fentanyl. Randi Weingarten is president of the 1.8 million-member AFT, which represents teachers; paraprofessionals and school-related personnel; higher education faculty and staff; nurses and other healthcare professionals; local, state and federal government employees; and early childhood educators. The AFT is dedicated to the belief that every person in America deserves the freedom to thrive, fueled by opportunity, justice and a voice in our democracy. Their website is www.AFT.org and their handle on BlueSky is @aftunion.bsky.social.  Randi's handle is @rweingarten.bsky.social. 'Win Without War' is a national grassroots organization that works with elected officials, policymakers, media, advocacy organizations, and movement leaders to promote and advance a values-based progressive national security strategy that prioritizes human security and diplomacy over war. They believe that by democratizing U.S. foreign policy and providing progressive alternatives, we can achieve more peaceful, just, and common sense policies that ensure that all people — regardless of race, nationality, gender, religion, or economic status — can find and take advantage of opportunity equally and feel secure. Their website is WinWithoutWar.org.  Their handle on BlueSky is @winwithoutwar.bsky.social.  Sara's handle is @shaghdoosti.bsky.social. Brad writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.' He's on the National Journal's panel of political insiders and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. You can read Brad's columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon. His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.  

The guest host for today's show is Brad Bannon. Brad runs Bannon Communications Research, a polling, message development and media firm which helps labor unions, progressive issue groups and Democratic candidates win public affairs and political campaigns. His show, 'Deadline D.C. with Brad Bannon,' airs every Monday from 3-4pm ET. Brad is first joined by Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). They discuss her brand new book, "Why Fascists Fear Teachers. Public Education and the Future of Democracy."  The book's Publisher, Penguin House, describes it as "A rousing defense of public education as the cornerstone of American democracy, by the woman attacked by the far right as “the most dangerous person in the world” Attacks on schools and teachers have long been a hallmark of fascist regimes: Throughout history, as many dictators rose to power they began banning books and controlling curriculum. Fascists fear teachers because teachers foster an educated and empowered population that can see past propaganda and scare tactics. Fascists fear teachers because they teach young people how to think for themselves. Drawing on history, stories from teachers on the front lines, and decades of experience with America's public schools, Weingarten argues that teaching students to think critically is the key to defeating would-be dictators. She encourages teachers to continue focusing on their vital mission to help young people thrive." The book is available for purchase here: https://sites.prh.com/whyfascistsfearteachers During the second half of the show, Brad is joined by Sara Haghdoosti and she is the Executive Director of Win Without War, a diverse network of activists and organizations working towards a progressive U.S. foreign policy. She details the dangers of militarizing local law enforcement, and what it means for everyday people that the President is willing to position troops in American cities to enforce his own agenda (with Memphis, TN just the latest). Based just outside of Chicago, Sara also speaks to what the local community is experiencing right now as Trump targets the city. Sara also talks about her organization's ‘Know Your Rights Campaign' for military service members that do not want to follow unlawful orders from the Trump administration: https://winwithoutwar.org/win-without-war-launches-notwhatyousignedupfor-org-for-members-of-the-military-during-trumps-authoritarian-crackdown/  Finally, Brad and Sara talk foreign policy, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the Trump administration's controversial airstrike on a Venezuelan boat that Trump claims contained drug smugglers transporting fentanyl. Randi Weingarten is president of the 1.8 million-member AFT, which represents teachers; paraprofessionals and school-related personnel; higher education faculty and staff; nurses and other healthcare professionals; local, state and federal government employees; and early childhood educators. Their website is www.AFT.org and their handle on BlueSky is @aftunion.bsky.social.  Randi's handle is @rweingarten.bsky.social. 'Win Without War' is a national grassroots organization that works with elected officials, policymakers, media, advocacy organizations, and movement leaders to promote and advance a values-based progressive national security strategy that prioritizes human security and diplomacy over war. Their website is WinWithoutWar.org.  Their handle on BlueSky is @winwithoutwar.bsky.social.  Sara's handle is @shaghdoosti.bsky.social. Brad writes a political column every Sunday for 'The Hill.' He's on the National Journal's panel of political insiders and is a national political analyst for WGN TV and Radio in Chicago and KNX Radio in Los Angeles. You can read Brad's columns at www.MuckRack.com/Brad-Bannon. His handle on BlueSky is @bradbannon.bsky.social.  

Please note that Human Restoration Project is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and that this interview is not an endorsement of Morales as a candidate for office.Before Howie Morales became Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico, before he was ever a state senator, he was a teacher and a state-championship winning baseball coach in rural New Mexico. He also holds a Master's in bilingual education and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction. So it'd be difficult, it seems, to understand what he's accomplished in those elected positions except through the lens of his experience in the classroom. And he joins me to talk about that experience, how it informs his work and achievements in office, and the challenges New Mexico public school students, families, and teachers still face.

Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, sits down with MASB's newest board president, Dale Wingerd, a President's award-winning board member who serves both Clinton Community Schools and Lenawee Intermediate School District. With a lifelong passion for learning, Dale shares what he's looking forward to most this year.  

Two hundred years ago, Wilhelm von Humboldt created the education system as we know it today. At the heart of his philosophy of education was the concept of Bildung — reaching one's inner potential. Yet over the years, as his public education system was adopted, Bildung may well have been the critical piece left out. *This episode is part one of two-part series. It originally aired on April 15, 2024.

In this jampacked episode, we spotlight three important dates: 10/4, 10/6, and 8/15. October 4, 2025, is OEA's Public Education Matters Day celebration at Kings Island and Cedar Point - We have what you need to know to join. October 6th is the voter registration deadline in Ohio this year - We have more on resources and programs to bring everything from voter registration drives to mock elections to your school, thanks to Kids Voting Ohio. And, August 15th was a pay date for Dayton Education Association members, as it should have been - We hear from the Dayton EA president about why it took a court order to get that done and why the ordeal has strengthened that local association.LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP | Click here to visit the Kids Voting Ohio website to see more information about the programs available for Ohio students and educators and to check out all of the Kids Voting Ohio resources you can use in your classroom. Please note: Mock elections can be held in the weeks before Election Day or any other time of the year! CELEBRATE PUBLIC EDUCATION MATTERS DAY | All OEA members are invited to enjoy a day of fun with their family, friends, and fellow educators at Kings Island and Cedar Point on Saturday, October 4, 2025. OEA is giving each OEA member up to four free admission tickets (including access to the Halloween Haunted Attractions) on a first come first served basis at the park gates, while supplies last. Discounted parking and additional discounted admission tickets and haunted attractions passes will be available for purchase through the end of the day of the event. Keep an eye on this webpage for the links and latest updates.   SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | If you'd like to share your thoughts on the Public Education Matters podcast, including your ideas for what you'd like to hear on future episodes, please email educationmatters@ohea.org.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Andrea Kruse, Kids Voting OhioNeil Mahoney, Dayton Education Association PresidentConnect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. Interviews for this episode were recorded on August 29 and September 2, 2025.

On this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Angel Thompson, the new principal at Dixie Elementary School.Angel opens up about her inspiring journey, from once believing college was out of reach to now leading a campus where she's shaping the future for students every day. She shares her story, her leadership approach, and her vision for bringing students, staff, and parents together to create a thriving school community.As the school year gets underway, Angel also talks about her goals and the opportunities ahead for Dixie Elementary.Tune in to hear how her experiences and passion guide her work as a leader and role model.Support the showFOOTER: If you want to hear more news about the district, download our app in the app store or sign up for our district newsletter at get.TylerISD.news.

Looking for a fun and informative way to make sense of all the latest education news? The Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the Above is a new podcast you may enjoy. It's co-hosted and produced by one of the producers of Budgeting for Educational Equity.On each episode, two special guest contestants from the world of public education take the quiz and discuss key questions and topics in the news. This month you can play alongside high school senior and student advocate Luisa Sanchez and former big city schools' superintendent Richard Carranza. Both are inspiring leaders and change makers who aren't afraid to challenge the status quo to improve educational systems. Previous episodes to date have featured educators who are leading on equity, including one that focused on School Funding and featured WestEd CEO Jannelle Kubinec at: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2505092/episodes/17415760Visit the Education News Comedy Quiz -- Some of the Above website.Follow the show directly on Apple Podcasts at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-education-news-comedy-quiz-some-of-the-above/id1816289605?i=1000725043370“If you're an educator looking for some laughs, a sense of ‘I feel so seen' via comedy and real talk on news and policy, THIS is the podcast for you!”ABOUT THE RECENT GUESTSLuisa Sanchez is a senior at Boyle County High School in Danville, Kentucky. She serves as board president of the Kentucky Student Voice Team, a statewide organization that empowers students to use their voices to build up an educational system that values and serves them. She is also a journalist and part of her school's academic team and arts academy. Luisa is one of 12 courageous plaintiffs in a lawsuit students in her state have filed to improve opportunities for all students. Richard Carranza is an acclaimed educator who has served in virtually every role, including as Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, the largest school system in the nation. He also served as Superintendent of the Houston Independent and San Francisco Unified school districts. Richard began his career as a high school bilingual social studies and music teacher, and then as a principal in Tucson, Arizona. Throughout his career, he has championed numerous initiatives to empower students, educators, and parents. He currently serves as the chief of strategy and global Development at IXL. ABOUT THE SHOW'S HOSTSAlex Kajitani is a California Teacher of the Year and author of several books for educators, including Owning It, and You're A Teacher Now. He is an inspiring and engaging speaker, the Rappin' Mathematician, coach, and creator of programs for students and teachers, including Multiplication Nation, Math Success Camp, and the "New Teacher Success" video series.Paul Richman is a Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist who...Wait, hold on -- that's someone else. Actually, Paul is an all-purpose education policy guy who has served as a leader for several statewide education associations, coalitions and policy initiatives. He also produced the "Adventures in Ed Funding" and "Budgeting for Educational Equity" podcasts, and currently serves as an executive producer of the Inside California Education statewide TV series.  

How do you truly disrupt education—not just tweak it? In this episode, Peter Hostrawser and Alli Dahl dive deep into their conversation with Dr. Gary Skeen, who's leading a bold education transformation in Virginia. From statewide flexibility for schools to reimagining teacher preparation and building 193+ workforce partnerships, Gary's model proves change is possible at scale. Hear powerful stories of students discovering their career paths (or ruling them out) before spending time and money, and learn why real-world experiences are the fastest route to stronger communities and economies. This is a blueprint for states, schools, and innovators ready to rebuild—not just reform.

Lori Gimelshteyn is the Executive Director of the Colorado Parent Advocacy Network (CPAN). She is dedicated to to protecting parental rights in schools and demonstrates how to build bridges with school officials, schoolboards and media while representing Christian values in public education to protect children from harmful ideology. Get a copy of Navigating Public Schools: Charting a Course to Protect Your Child's Christian Faith for a gift of any amount. Buy your copy of Jim Daly’s book, ReFOCUS! He shares how believers can engage others in the culture with the love of Christ and reveal the heart of God. Our goal is to strengthen our schools — not divide them. This information, combined with a biblical worldview, empowers parents and students to navigate the school year with grace and truth. Your role is crucial, Mom and Dad! Colorado Parents Advocacy Network - Resources for parents everywhere to adapt and use in advocating for your children Watch this inspiring documentary from Focus on the Family and the Colson Center and participate in the 4-part study on impacting the culture Opt-Out Template for Parents Support this Show! Send Jim a voicemail! Click here. Send your feedback or questions to Jim in the Contact Form.

In this episode, David Baker, TSBA President-Elect and Hardin County Vice Chairman, discusses what it means to lead from the second chair. Tune in as we explore what it means to be the Vice Chairman as well as have a strong working relationship with the Chairman as well as being in a supportive role during each board meeting. Click here if you wish to read the transcript of today's podcast episode.

No weapons detection or police on campus, more counselors and mental health services, What is going on in Arizona public schools?

Canada's public education system has been recognized globally for decades, ranking in the top 10 countries according to the Programme for International Student Assessment, or PISA. But, since 2006, this country has seen its overall scores drop in all three areas: reading, science and especially math — leaving experts, and parents, worried. In The Current's new series, Learning Curve, we are taking a closer look into what's leading to this drop — and can our education system be improved for everyone involved.

When we talk about public education, we're talking about the heart of democracy, says today's guest Heather DuBois Bourenane, the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Public Education Network. The post Public Education is the Beating Heart of Democracy appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

Send us a textIn this episode of Petey Podcast, we sit down with educational leader, Dr. Courtney Griffiths. Courtney began her journey in Elyria as an assistant principal at Elyria High School, the district's largest school, where she quickly established herself as a collaborative and visionary leader. Her commitment to academic excellence and vast experience that included previous leadership at Joint Vocational (Career Center) High School led her to the role of associate principal, where she spearheaded the school's academic initiatives and served as the master planner of student curriculum.Now serving as the Associate Superintendent of Academics for the entire district, she leads a dynamic team focused on boosting student achievement and driving instructional innovation districtwide. Tune in as we chat with Courtney about lessons learned and her vision for academics across all schools in Elyria.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Our two part series on billionaires and public education continues. Today, we're zooming in on the rise of new, well-funded activist groups targeting school boards, banning books, and attacking everything from diversity initiatives to trans student rights. Who's behind groups like Moms for Liberty and Parents Defending Education? What is “dark money,” and how does it quietly reshape local and national education policy? And who is Leonard Leo, and why is he so influential in this fight? Alyssa Bowen, deputy executive director of True North Research and the director of True North's Equality Project, explains.

Send us a text On this episode of Petey Podcast, we're thrilled to introduce one of the newest members of our leadership team — Kate Petiya, Assistant Principal at Elyria's Early Childhood Village! With many years of experience teaching preschool right here in the very building she now helps lead, she brings a deep understanding of early childhood education, special education and our community. Her dedication, insight and connection to the families and staff make her an outstanding addition to our team. Join us as we get to know Kate better, and hear her vision for supporting students, staff and families in her new role. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

In this episode, I tackle the history of education from prehistoric hunter-gatherer days all the way to today. We'll look at the many motives that have shaped the education and formal schooling of children from the agricultural revolution, through ancient times, to the protestant reformation and the industrial revolution. Through it all, motives have been... questionable. We educated children because we needed them to work the land. We educated them because we needed to train them as future politicians and soldiers. We needed them to be scribes. We needed them to be able to read the Bible. We needed them to be factory workers. But what about the children? What about what's best for them? Let's fix that. Support the show! Join the Patreon (patreon.com/historyfixpodcast)Buy some merchBuy Me a CoffeeVenmo @Shea-LaFountaineSources: Peter Gray "A Brief History of Education"PBS Only a Teacher Schoolhouse Pioneers "Horace Mann"Duke Sanford Center for Strategic Philanthropy and Civil Society "General Education Board"Marathon County Historical Society "A Day in a One Room Schoolhouse"Think International Schools "The Evolution of Education: A Journey Through Time"Center of Education Policy "History and Evolution of Public Education in the US"Wikipedia "History of Education"Shoot me a message!

The Michigan College Access Network joins the podcast with its Executive Director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss, to discuss how the organization works to ensure all Michigan students understand the opportunities available to them for education beyond high school, as well as the current state of college graduates in the state.

Send us a textToday I welcome a familiar voice and a longtime friend—Dr. Randall Balmer. Back in the day, when we were “Trinity Men,” he was “Randy” to me. Today, he's Dr. Balmer—historian, author, professor, and one of the leading voices on religion in America. He earned his graduate degrees at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Princeton, and Union Theological Seminary, and this marks our third interview together.Randall recently published a powerful piece in the Los Angeles Times about the 1925 Scopes Trial—often remembered as the showdown between Genesis and Darwin. He reminds us that the trial wasn't supposed to be about evolution at all, but that's where it landed. William Jennings Bryan thundered that “if evolution wins, Christianity goes.” Clarence Darrow countered, “It's not Scopes on trial—it's civilization.” Nearly a century later, the questions linger.Randall also brings us into his latest book, America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State. It's a sweeping story—Roger Williams's “hedge of separation,” Jefferson's Danbury letter, Madison, Adams, and the First Amendment—all the way to today's battles over vouchers, religious schools, and the religious right. Along the way, we'll talk about court rulings, culture wars, and the ongoing debate over whether America is a Christian nation—or a nation that protects the freedom of every faith, and of no faith at all.It's always a rich conversation when Dr. Balmer joins me, and today is no exception. Come on along with us! SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Hi there! Here's a quick look at our top local stories for Tuesday, August 19. Find the complete articles and much more in today's print edition and online at https://www.iolaregister.com/.

This week on The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and Ret. MN Supreme Court Justice Barry Anderson interview Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and Pepperdine Law's, Prof. Edward Larson. Prof. Larson marks the 100th anniversary of the Scopes “Monkey Trial,” a landmark case in America's long-running debate over science, religion, and public education. Drawing on his acclaimed book Summer for the Gods, Prof. Larson provides historical context for the trial, which centered on high school teacher John Scopes, charged with violating Tennessee's Butler Act against teaching evolution. Larson explores the cultural tensions of the 1920s—religious fundamentalism, immigration, and rapid social change—that set the stage for the courtroom showdown between famed attorneys Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan. He describes the media frenzy, the dramatic legal arguments, and the trial's verdict, offering insights into how the case became a defining moment in American civic life. He highlights the ongoing role of public schools, the enduring clash between modern science and religious belief, and the trial's lasting legacy. Prof. Larson closes the interview with a reading from Summer for the Gods.

Andrew Strom, labor lawyer and adjunct professor at Brooklyn Law School, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the current state of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).   On today's Labor 131 segment, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Tom Suhrbur, author and retired organizer for the Illinois Education Association (IEA), discussed his book "Public Education and Social Reform: A History of the Illinois Education Association." 

Have you ever wondered why the rich and powerful seem to have so many opinions about public education, especially when neither they nor their children have attended public schools? This is the first of a two-part series exploring how the rich and powerful are cashing out on public education. Today, we're looking at the big picture: the historical, decades-long agenda by wealthy donors and corporate interests to privatize schools, weaken unions, and limit what educators can teach. Our guest is **Lisa Graves,** founder and Executive Director of True North Research.

One valley school district is thinking about merging class's. What will happen to all the empty classrooms?

The long-running lawsuit against the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) over superintendent compensation may be settled, but the implications are still unfolding. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, and Bob Schindler, attorney at Miller Johnson and legal representative in the case, to break down what the settlement means for districts. Learn what steps administrators can take now to prepare for the coming changes to superintendent retirement compensation.

Send us a textI'm honored to welcome Dr. Edward J. Larson to this episode of the podcast. Dr. Larson is the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America's Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion, a landmark work that reexamines the 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial with fresh insight and scholarly depth.In our conversation, Dr. Larson challenges the familiar narrative popularized by Inherit the Wind, revealing the Scopes Trial as far more than a simple clash between science and religion. It was, in fact, a complex cultural moment shaped by political ambition, regional identity, national media, and the anxieties of a rapidly modernizing society.We explore key figures—Clarence Darrow, William Jennings Bryan, and John Scopes—and their roles in this iconic legal battle. Dr. Larson offers fascinating context around Bryan's progressive credentials, his anti-evolution stance, and his public persona as a speaker and political leader. We also discuss the broader implications of the trial for American legal and educational systems, and how its legacy continues to inform today's debates over religion in public life, science education, and Christian nationalism.Dr. Larson reflects on his personal and academic journey, from his early years to his study from college, to grad school, to law school, and his doctoral dissertation on the history of science. He shares what inspired his deep investigation into the Scopes Trial—ultimately culminating in the Pulitzer Prize in 1998. This episode is both thought-provoking and timely. I invite you to join me for a meaningful conversation that sheds new light on a pivotal moment in American history. SHOW NOTESKen's Substack: Scopes in 2025Support the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

Discover how building trust in public education can transform the 'us vs. them' mentality. Hear from two teacher leaders on improving parent-teacher teamwork.Links:Learn more about our guests' workLearn more about Public Education PartnersLearn more about Greenville First Steps_Produced by Podcast Studio X.Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.Get in touch.Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.Sign up for the Simple Civics newsletter.

Today on the "CONVERSATION Podcast", Pastor Ben Applebee is joined by Teri Dunham to discuss how Discipleship and Schools mix, in a 3 part series. This 1st part will have Ben and Teri focus on Public Education!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

This week on The Learning Curve, co-hosts U-Arkansas Prof. Albert Cheng and Dr. Helen Baxendale of Great Hearts Academies interview longtime public education champion and Learning Curve co-host Alisha Searcy. Alisha joins the show as a guest to share her story and insights into K-12 public education reform. Herself a product of public-school choice, she discusses how those early experiences shaped her belief in accessible, high‑quality schooling for all students. Elected to the Georgia House at age 23, Alisha spent six terms crafting key education reform laws and policies, including the intradistrict transfer law and the charter school authorizer amendment, that sought to put students at the center of school reform efforts. She then transitioned into school leadership, serving as superintendent of a network of charter public schools in metro Atlanta, where she led dramatic academic improvement and operational turnaround. Drawing on both her legislative and schoolhouse experience, Alisha now leads an ambitious effort like Center for Strong Public Schools (CSPS) and CSPS Action, to support center-left state policymakers in navigating education challenges and designing student‑first public schools. In closing, she explains why the current moment presents unique opportunities to strengthen K-12 public education, especially in Southern states that are facing both pressing achievement needs and prospective school innovations.