Welcome to ‘What I Want to Know’, one of the most downloaded K-12 education podcasts in the country! Listen in with our host, Kevin P. Chavous, as he connects with innovators and leaders who share practical, transformative solutions to the biggest challenges in education today. As America rethinks the future of schooling, Kevin explores emerging needs and possibilities, for students and educators alike, through short, stimulating conversations. Subscribe to ‘What I Want to Know’ on Apple Pod ...
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163. Back to School 2024: Empowering Students through Storytelling, Mindfulness, Science, and Future Skills
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In this special back-to-school compilation episode, host Kevin P. Chavous presents a curated selection of expert advice from "What I Want to Know." This episode is designed to help parents and students prepare for a successful school year, featuring insights from education experts, industry leaders, and innovative educators. 0:00 Introduction 0:37 …
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162. How Your Teen Can Join the Medical Field with Dr. Sherri Wilson
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 9% of total employment in the U.S. is within the healthcare industry, with about 1.8 million job openings projected each year. This episode explores the benefits of healthcare careers, how students can gain experience while in school, and the opportunities available in this rapidly growing fiel…
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161. Can More Play Time Make Your Kid Smarter? Elizabeth Cushing on the Power of Play
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Learning is a risky business that requires trying new things and being ready to fail. Play has many benefits for children, including improved language and problem-solving skills, perseverance, and creativity. However, not all kids have access to play due to budget cuts and program reductions. This episode explores the impact of play on children's d…
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160. How can sports help kids heal, grow, and thrive? with Founder of The Center for Healing and Justice Through Sports, Megan Bartlett
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Nearly 30 million U.S. children and teens participate in some form of organized sports. While sports have physical health benefits for kids, they can also benefit their mental, emotional, and social health. How can sports help kids heal, grow, and thrive? Why is it essential to provide kids with high-quality, healing sports? And what can parents an…
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Encore Episode: Is college the right path for every student? with Mark C. Perna
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Revisit this episode on whether college is the best path for students to have successful careers with Mark C. Perna. For the past few decades, there’s been a significant push for students to enroll in a four-year university immediately after high school. But according to a recent survey, almost 70 percent of parents would support their children ent…
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159. How can charter schools create opportunities for students? with Academic Advisor at West Virginia Virtual Academy, Cheryl Stahle
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Public charter schools currently serve more than 3.7 million students. In fact, according to a report by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, enrollment in public charter schools grew by more than 300,000 students between 2019 and 2023. What are charter schools? What are the benefits of the charter school model? And how can charter sch…
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158. Can summer learning programs combat the summer slide? with CEO of National Summer Learning Association, Aaron Dworkin
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As the school year ends and summer begins, many parents and teachers worry about the “summer slide.” The summer slide is the tendency for students to lose some of the achievement gains they made during the previous school year. To combat this learning loss, many districts are focusing on providing additional opportunities for students to learn over…
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157. How can we ensure all students have access to effective tutoring? with Founder and Executive Director of the National Student Support Accelerator, Dr. Susanna Loeb
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In response to pandemic learning loss, many school districts across the country turned to intensive tutoring. And studies have shown that methods like high-impact tutoring can increase a student’s learning and be more effective than standard methods. Can tutoring help students overcome pandemic learning loss? What works and doesn’t work when it com…
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156. How can we combat the shortage of special education teachers? with Professor of Special Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Kimber Wilkerson
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More than 7.5 million students in the United States have disabilities that qualify them for individual education plans. However, teachers trained in special education are in short supply. In fact, a survey found that 65% of public schools report being understaffed in special education. What is causing this shortage? How is this affecting teachers a…
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Encore Episode: How can we keep kids safe online?
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Revisit our episode on digital safety featuring Titania Jordan, chief marketing officer and chief parent officer of Bark Technologies. Technology can open up doors to more information and content than ever before. That can be good – and bad – for kids. How can we teach kids healthy tech habits? What are the risks of cyberbullying, access to predato…
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Encore Episode: What role do parents play in promoting mental health?
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To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, revisit our episode on promoting mental health with Anne Brown, President and CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly 20 percent of youth in the United States age 6 to 17 experience a mental health disorder and suicide is the second leading…
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155. Why is storytelling important for children? with Children's Book Author Jesse Byrd
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Storytelling is one of the most powerful learning devices. Not only does it play a role in a child’s language and cognitive development, but it can also teach them about the world around them. What are the benefits of storytelling? How can children’s literature help develop important skills? And how can we encourage a love of storytelling in our st…
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154. What can teachers and school leaders do to combat the school-to-prison pipeline? with School Psychologist and Professor Dr. Tammy Hughes
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Studies show that every school year almost 3 million public school students receive one or more out-of-school suspensions, while more than 100,000 students are expelled. Along with doing little to reduce children’s misconduct, one out-of-school suspension increases a child’s chance of dropping out of school and increases their chances of entering t…
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153. How can we incorporate mindfulness into the classroom? with Founder of Peace of Mind, Linda Ryden
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Research finds that mindfulness can help decrease stress and anxiety while strengthening resilience and emotional regulation in adults and children. This is why the use of mindfulness programs in schools is becoming more and more popular. What exactly is mindfulness? What are the benefits of mindfulness on students? And how can we incorporate mindf…
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152. How Can We Make Science Fun? with Chemist & Science Entertainer Kate Biberdorf
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math are projected to grow by almost 11 percent by 2031 much faster than non-STEM occupations. While numerous students are interested in STEM careers, many do not feel prepared to pursue jobs in the field. Why is it important for students to understand s…
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151. How can we prevent violence in schools? with CEO of Sandy Hook Promise Nicole Hockley
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According to the CDC, guns are the leading cause of death among American children and teens. From mass shootings to isolated incidents, gun violence has emerged as a tragic issue continuously plaguing our schools. How can we identify the signs of violence? How can students, parents, and educators safely intervene? And how can we prevent violence in…
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150. Should video games be used as tools for learning? with President and CEO of the Entertainment Software Association, Stanley Pierre-Louis
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According to the Entertainment Software Association, 76% of kids play video games. With their ability to build problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills video games are starting to make their way to the classroom. What are the benefits of video games? What role should parents have in choosing the games their child plays? And how can …
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149. How can we encourage an interest in science in young girls? with Founder of Science Girl's Lab Melissa Alderete
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Research shows that girls and young women lose interest in science and math as they move through their school years. And now, women make up only 28% of the STEM workforce. How can we use science to inspire kids? Why is it important for girls to see themselves represented in the field? And how can we encourage an interest in science in young girls? …
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148. What is the role of philanthropy in education? with President and CEO of the Daniels Fund, Hanna Skandera
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We all know that philanthropy is important in education. Many worthwhile organizations rely on the generosity of philanthropic groups who are determined to help kids and schools through their donations. But the needs of schools have changed, particularly following the pandemic. What is the role of philanthropy in education? How has education philan…
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147. Why does representation matter in children's literature? with Author and Speaker Alliah Agostini
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Over the past decade, children’s literature has become far more diverse. In fact, research found that in 2022 about 45 percent of kids’ and teens’ books had a nonwhite author, illustrator, or compiler, which was up from only 8 percent in 2014. How can we encourage representation in children’s books? What are the impacts of diverse representation in…
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146. How can books build community? with Executive Director of Little Free Library Greig Metzger
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During the pandemic, 35% of the world increased their reading habits. And now, from book clubs to #BookTok, people have continued to turn to books as an anecdote to isolation and a way to build community. Why is reading so transformative? How can we ensure everyone has access to books? And how can books build community? In this episode, Greig Metzg…
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145. How can learning to read change lives? with literary advocate Oliver James
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According to the Department of Education, more than 8 million Americans are considered functionally illiterate, meaning they cannot read and comprehend short texts or understand basic vocabulary. Illiteracy often leads to low self-esteem and isolation, as well as higher chances of unemployment and poverty. What are the impacts of illiteracy? What f…
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144. How can books introduce kids to tough topics? with "A Kids Book About" Founder Jelani Memory
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A survey found that one in five parents struggle to have meaningful conversations with their children. When it comes to topics like mental health, racism, shame, violence, and more, parents often strain to find the right way to introduce these topics to their children. Could books be the answer to this problem? What challenges are parents facing wh…
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143. How can we best support students with ADHD? with Clinical Psychologist & ADHD Expert Dr. Sharon Saline
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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, known as ADHD, is among the most common mental conditions in children with an estimated 6 million kids having been diagnosed with the disorder. Children with ADHD often feel misunderstood, and their parents often feel uncertain about the best way to be there for their child. What is ADHD, and how does it im…
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142. How should we talk to our kids about social media? with Director of the WCW Youth, Media, and Well-Being Research Lab Linda Charmaraman
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According to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 95% of teenagers reported using social media and more than a third of them use it “almost constantly.” High social media usage in children has caused concern in parents with many wondering if social media is safe for their kids. What are the negative and positive impacts of social media? Should pare…
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141. How can we best support the future workforce? with President and CEO of Cara Collective Dr. Kathleen St. Louis Caliento
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 5.9 million Americans were unemployed as of 2022. And as traditional jobs evolve, there is an increasing demand for skills training and personal development. How can we equip individuals with sustainable employment? What challenges are job seekers and employers facing today? And how can we be…
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140. How can we reduce chronic absenteeism? with Executive Director of Attendance Works Hedy Chang
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Chronic absenteeism has been a growing challenge for our schools, especially following pandemic learning disruptions. In fact, a report found that chronic absenteeism rates more than doubled from 26% during the 2017–2018 school year to 66% during the 2021–2022 school year. What causes chronic absenteeism? How is this impacting our students and scho…
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139. How does screen time impact our children? with Education Leader and Transformation Coach Dr. Kecia Ray
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It’s more common than ever now to see adults and children glued to a screen. But when it comes to children and screen time, it is a particularly loaded topic. A recent study found that since the pandemic, screen time among children has gone up 52 percent globally. This increase has led to concerns about developmental delays, impaired socialization …
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138. What is the state of the school choice movement? with President & CEO of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation Andrew Campanella
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Now more than ever, nontraditional learning environments are gaining popularity with parents. In fact, a 2023 parent survey revealed that nearly half of parents said they would send at least one child to a different school for the 2023–2024 school year. And many states are following suit, with a record 20 states saying “yes” to expanding school cho…
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137. Should we rethink the college admissions system? with Strategy Director for Participation at Lumina Foundation Melanie Heath
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Applying for college is often a stressful and complicated endeavor. Students must manage various deadlines and portals, submit resumes and essays, coordinate test scores and letters of recommendation, and so much more. A recent survey of 16- to 22-year-olds found that more than half of them said applying for college is their most stressful academic…
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136: How do we support students after tragedy? with Zoe Touray
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Since the Columbine High School shooting in 1999, more than 338,000 students in the United States have experienced gun violence in school. School shootings lead to an increase in student absenteeism, antidepressant drug usage, and lower test scores. Research also shows that students exposed to school shootings are less likely to graduate high schoo…
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135: How can we help students feel safe at school? with Kristi Krings
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According to the CDC, more than 800,000 high school students skip school at least once per month due to fear for their safety. And almost 200,000 teens miss school each day due to bullying. From fear of bullying and school shootings to facing mental health and behavioral issues, many students are feeling uneasy when it comes to school. What issues …
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In 2023, Kevin P. Chavous had the privilege to speak with experts, school leaders, teachers, parents, and students about the most pressing issues in education today. The show explored what the future of education could hold and how we can encourage lifelong learning in all students. To celebrate the end 2023, here are some of our favorite moments f…
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133: How can we create a sense of belonging for all students? with Ramon Stephens
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A Rutgers researcher recently found that having a strong sense of belonging at school could mitigate suicidal tendencies among Black students. In fact, the research showed that as Black adolescents’ sense of belonging decreased, their risk for suicidal ideation and attempts increased by as much as 35%. What does it mean for a child to feel accepted…
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132. Is college the right path for every student? with Speaker, Best-selling author, and Forbes contributor Mark Perna
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For the past few decades, there’s been a large push for students to enroll in a four-year university immediately after high school. But according to a recent survey, almost 70 percent of parents would support their children entering the workforce right after high school. What’s causing parents to accept and seek alternative routes for their childre…
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131. How can teachers maintain their passion for the profession? with 2023 National Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson
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Teachers are leaving the profession in droves amid rising school violence, controversies, and burnout. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half of public education employees leaving the profession are not retiring or being laid off—they are resigning. This trend is worsening the already significant teacher shortage acr…
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130. How can we better support gifted students? with Creator of Gifted360 Dr. Brian Housand
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According to a Purdue University Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute report, more than 3.3 million U.S. public school children are labeled as gifted. The report also noted that as many as 3.6 million more students should be labeled as gifted but have been overlooked. How do schools identify gifted students? How can schools ensure quali…
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129. Can apprenticeship programs alleviate teacher shortages? with Founder of National Center for Grow Your Own David Donaldson
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When we think of apprenticeships, we often think of common fields like manufacturing, construction, and plumbing. But now, with more than three-quarters of U.S. states experiencing teacher shortages, apprenticeship programs might be the answer. What do teacher apprenticeship programs look like? How can they benefit our future educators? And can app…
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128. Why is history still important and needed today? with high school teacher and author Jessica Lander
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Heated political debates and culture wars over U.S. history have led to the adoption of new policies and revised curriculum in schools across the country. These new guidelines are rising concerns among families and educators, many worried about the erasing and rewriting of history. Why is history still important and needed today? What are the conse…
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127. Can job training programs better prepare our students for the future? with President & CEO of Gaylor Electric Chuck Goodrich
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With many industries facing staffing shortages, some employers have turned to high school students to fill the gaps. Job training programs for high schoolers are on the rise across industries. These programs offer students hands on learning, real world experience and often guarantee employment after successful completion of the program. What do the…
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126. How can we cultivate Black teachers? with Founder and CEO of the Center for Black Educator Development Sharif El-Mekki
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According to the National Center for Education Statistics, Black teachers currently account for only seven percent of all public school teachers. This trend is attributed to the achievement and opportunity gaps among Black students. In fact, studies show that having at least one Black teacher reduces a Black student’s likelihood of dropping out of …
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125. What are the makings of America's best schools? with Yass Prize Founder Janine Yass & Foundation Director Jeanne Allen
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Families often seek the best of the best when it comes to where to send their children to school. Whether it’s innovative teaching techniques, outstanding academic achievements, or unwavering leadership, many of today’s schools are seeking to provide best-in-class education to their students. But what makes a school “the best?” How can we celebrate…
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124. How can we better support students with disabilities? with Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Center for Learner Equity Lauren M. Rhim
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The COVID-19 pandemic affected student learning across the board. While almost all students declined academically, a report from The Center for Learner Equity found that students with disabilities were especially impacted. Students with disabilities often face wide and persistent achievement gaps. With the more than 7 million young people with disa…
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123. How can sex education keep our children safe? with President and CEO at Sex Ed for Social Change Cristine Soyong Harley
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According to a recent Parents survey, 70 percent of parents want better sex education for their kids and believe it should be mandatory in schools. Teaching our children about sex can be difficult and controversial leaving many parents and educators struggling to navigate the topic. What should sex education look like in the classroom? How can pare…
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122. What role do parents play in promoting mental health? with President/CEO of Cook Center for Human Connection Anne Brown
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According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly 20 percent of youth in the United States age 6 to 17 experience a mental health disorder and suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10- to 14-year-olds. With so many youth struggling today, most parents are left feeling helpless and concerned. In fact, a report found that ment…
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121. Are we doing enough to support linguistically diverse students? with Dr. Robert Scott, TESOL Expert
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According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about ten percent of students in U.S. public schools are English language learners. With this number steadily growing, educators and students are facing challenges highlighting a need to rethink curricula and teaching strategies. What are the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse s…
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120. What impact does nutrition have on learning? with Stephen Ritz, founder of Green Bronx Machine
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According to Feeding America, more than 9 million children faced hunger in 2021. That’s 1 in 8 children. Children facing hunger are more likely to repeat a grade in elementary school, have social and behavioral problems and experience diminished language and motor skills. What impact does nutrition have on learning? How can we encourage nutrition a…
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119. How are Education Savings Accounts shaping the education system? with President & CEO of EdChoice Robert Enlow
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More than 30,000 students across the country are using Education Savings Account programs. Supporters say these programs give families the freedom to pursue education options best suited for their children’s needs. Others say ESAs siphon dollars out of already-struggling public school systems. What are ESAs? What do they mean for families and for e…
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118. Is homeschooling the right fit for your child? with Homeschooling Network Director of Mocha Moms Onnikah Randolph
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Since the pandemic, more families are choosing to homeschool their children. In fact, homeschool enrollment has increased by nearly 30 percent. The most dramatic increase was seen with Black families with the number of homeschooled Black children rising from 3 percent to 16 percent in 2020. Why is homeschooling on the rise? How can families know if…
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117. How can parents make the right choice for their child’s education? with GreatSchools.org CEO Jon Deane
27:28
27:28
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27:28
For years, parents and community leaders relied on standardized test scores and socioeconomic status to determine the quality of a school. But parents – and teachers in the classrooms – have long known those limited factors only tell part of the story. With an increasing number of school options and data available to families across the U.S., paren…
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