Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews David K Richards, founder and CEO of Changemaker Education. David shares his journey from banking to education and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of community, vision, and support in launching micro schools. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from educator to entrepreneur, the ideal characteristics of micro school leaders, and the significance of having a clear vision. The conversation emphasizes the role of hope in education and the potential for change in the educational landscape.

Chapters:

• 00:00 The Journey of David K Richards
• 02:50 The Birth of Changemaker Education
• 05:45 The Evolution of Education and Career Paths
• 08:45 Identifying Ideal Micro School Leaders
• 11:38 The Importance of Community and Support
• 14:30 Funding and Resources for Micro Schools
• 17:27 The Role of Vision in Education
• 20:16 Building a Movement in Education
• 23:16 Hope and the Future of Education
• 41:23 The Role of Hope in Education

Episode Highlights:

• David's journey from banking to education showcases the importance of following one's passion.
• Changemaker Education aims to support the launch of micro schools across the country.
• Community support is crucial for the success of new educational initiatives.
• Micro school leaders should have a strong vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Funding options for micro schools are available, but starting small is often sufficient.
• The importance of understanding the needs of families when starting a school.
• Building a movement in education requires collective hope and action.
• Clear vision and values are essential for the success of any educational venture.
• Networking and community engagement can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Hope is a driving force behind educational reform and innovation.

Quotes:

• "I wanted to change the education space."
• "There's always been a thread for me."
• "If you build it, they will come."

Connect with David Richards and more about Changemaker Education:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-k-richards-a1b43753/
• Website: Changemaker Education

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Dr. Robin Harwick discusses the innovative approach of the Pearl Remote Democratic High School, emphasizing the importance of democratic education, student voice, and personalized learning. She highlights the need for educational practices that are grounded in research and relevant to students' lives, while also addressing the challenges faced by families navigating school choice and supporting students with special needs. The conversation underscores the role of hope in education and the goal of fostering a love for learning in students.

Episode Highlights:

• Democratic education empowers students to have a voice in their learning.
• Personalized and culturally relevant curriculum enhances student engagement.
• Research should inform educational practices to meet students' needs.
• Students learn valuable life skills through real-world applications.
• Creating a supportive community is essential for families and students.
• School choice provides opportunities for diverse educational experiences.
• Students with IEPs deserve tailored support in their learning environments.
• Hope is a guiding principle in fostering student motivation and engagement.
• Building relationships with students is key to understanding their needs.
• Education should prepare students for their future while valuing their present experiences.

Quotes:

• "We want families who value education."
• "We want to ignite that passion for learning."
• "We want to make sure that we are always bringing hope."

Where to purchase:

• Purchase The Democratic Classroom: Theory to Inform Practice, is the foundation of The Pearl High School by Art Pearl and Tony Knight

Connect with Dr. Robin Harwick and more about The Pearl:

• Email: drharwick@thepearlhighschool.org
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harwickr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePearlHighSchool/
• Website: The Pearl Remote Democratic High School
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_pearl_high_school/

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Tammy shares her journey of co-parenting her grandson Hayden, who is on the autism spectrum. She discusses the challenges they faced in the traditional school system, including the struggle with socialization and the need for a structured learning environment. After advocating for Hayden's needs, they transitioned to homeschooling, which has allowed for a more personalized education experience. Tammy emphasizes the importance of community support, self-advocacy, and the hope she has for Hayden's future as they navigate this new educational path together.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Tammy's Journey
• 01:37 Navigating Education Challenges
• 05:17 Transitioning to Homeschooling
• 09:01 The Impact of Community and Support
• 13:03 Advocacy and Self-Determination
• 16:47 Hope for the Future

Episode Highlights:

• Tammy co-parents her grandson Hayden, who is on the autism spectrum.
• Hayden struggled in a traditional school setting due to socialization issues.
• Tammy and Hayden transitioned to homeschooling for a more personalized education.
• Community support played a crucial role in their homeschooling journey.
• Advocacy for Hayden's needs was essential in navigating the school system.
• Tammy emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy for children with special needs.
• The HOPE Scholarship helped facilitate their homeschooling experience.
• Tammy believes in the potential of children on the spectrum to thrive in a supportive environment.
• Hayden's excitement for homeschooling reflects his desire for a tailored learning experience.
• Tammy hopes to inspire other families to explore alternative education options.

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!
• Join the Hopeschoolers FB group!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews JoDee Martin, the founder of A to Z for Moms Like Me. JoDee shares her journey from starting a blog to creating unique curriculums for homeschooling families. The conversation explores the evolution of education, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation, curiosity, and the role of hope in learning. JoDee encourages parents to embrace their role as educators and to pursue their passions while adapting to their children's needs.

Episode Highlights:

• A to Z for Moms Like Me started as a blog 16 years ago.
• JoDee created curriculums to address the needs of homeschooling families.
• The importance of teaching kids the difference between being a victim, villain, or hero.
• COVID-19 shifted many parents' perspectives on education and homeschooling.
• Self-evaluation is crucial for both parents and children in the learning process.
• Homeschooling allows for personalized learning experiences tailored to each child.
• Encouraging curiosity and lifelong learning is essential in education.
• Hope is about wanting a better future and taking action to achieve it.
• Parents should not feel inadequate in their ability to teach their children.
• Community and resources are vital for homeschooling families.

Where to purchase:

• Website: A to Z for Moms Like Me

Connect with Jodee:

• Email: atozformomslikeme@gmail.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atozformomslikeme
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/atozformomslikeme
• Website: https://www.atozformoms.com/

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully discusses the progress and impact of the Hope Scholarship in West Virginia. She shares her personal journey and the experiences of families who have benefited from the scholarship. The conversation covers eligibility requirements, the application process, and the importance of parental involvement in education. Kim emphasizes the need for community support and the significance of making informed decisions about children's education. The episode concludes with reflections on hope and the future of education in West Virginia.

Episode Highlights:

• The Hope Scholarship was established in 2022 to support families in West Virginia.
• There was initial skepticism about the scholarship, but it has gained acceptance over time.
• The number of students using the Hope Scholarship has grown significantly each year.
• Eligibility for the scholarship currently requires enrollment in a public school for at least 45 days.
• Parents are encouraged to take an active role in their child's education and explore options.
• The Hope Scholarship will become fully universal in the 2026-27 school year.
• Personal stories from families highlight the positive impact of the scholarship.
• Community support is crucial for the success of educational programs.
• Parents should feel proud of their school choices, whether public, private, or homeschooling.
• The focus should always be on the student experience and their needs.

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

Keywords:

trust-based observations, strengths-based approach, teacher feedback, school culture, educational leadership, professional development, teacher support, classroom observations, growth mindset, educational reform

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Craig Randall about his innovative approach to teacher observations known as Trust-Based Observations. Craig explains how this method focuses on building trust and utilizing a strengths-based approach to enhance teacher performance and school culture. The conversation delves into the mechanics of the observation process, the importance of feedback, and the transformative impact on both teachers and students. Craig shares insights on how to implement this approach effectively and the vision behind creating a supportive educational environment.

Episode Highlights:

• Trust-based observations focus on building trust and strengths.
• Strengths-based approaches lead to more open and vulnerable teachers.
• Unannounced observations help capture authentic teaching practices.
• Feedback should be supportive and growth-oriented, not punitive.
• Building trust takes time and intentional actions.
• Transforming school culture requires a shift in observation practices.
• Teachers often feel more valued when they receive specific praise.
• The process encourages risk-taking and innovation in teaching.
• Effective training is essential for successful implementation.
• The ultimate goal is to improve teaching and learning outcomes.

Learn more about Craig:

• Website: Trust Based Observations
• Contact Craig Randall: craig@trustbased.com
• Connect with Craig on Facebook,X, and LinkedIn
• Order a copy today! (Available as etextbook or paperback)

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, host Kim Dully engages with authors Kevin Dalafu and Alex Compton about their book 'Wisest Learners, Guiding Your Child's Athletic Journey.' They discuss the motivations behind writing the book, the importance of values in parenting, and how to navigate the challenges of youth sports. The conversation emphasizes the significance of character development, resilience, and creating a supportive community for children involved in sports. The authors share personal anecdotes and insights on how to define success beyond just winning, focusing instead on the holistic growth of children as individuals.

Episode Highlights:

• The book aims to help parents navigate their children's athletic journeys.
• Values play a crucial role in shaping parenting strategies.
• Adversity in sports can teach valuable life lessons.
• It's important to define success beyond just winning.
• Building character is essential in youth sports.
• Creating a supportive community enhances children's experiences.
• Parents should reflect on their values and how they align with their actions.
• Encouraging resilience helps children cope with failure.
• The book includes practical tips and reflection questions for parents.
• Parenting is a journey that requires continuous learning and adaptation.

Where to purchase your copy:

• Website: Wisest Learners for Parents of Athletes
• Order a copy today! (Available as audio, kindle or paperback)

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Jeni Hettinger from My Fun Science, an online platform offering a variety of classes for homeschooling families. They discuss the range of courses available, including science, math, history, and foreign languages, as well as the structure of the classes, lab components, and the importance of student engagement. Jeni emphasizes the flexibility and customization of education that My Fun Science provides, allowing parents to tailor their children's learning experiences. The conversation also touches on payment options, the global reach of the classes, and the supportive community that My Fun Science fosters for families.

Episode Highlights:

• My Fun Science offers a variety of classes for homeschooling families.
• Courses include science, math, history, and foreign languages.
• Classes are structured to include lab components for hands-on learning.
• Student engagement is crucial for success in online classes.
• My Fun Science has students from across the world participating in classes.
• The platform allows for flexibility in course selection and pacing.
• Payment plans are available to make classes more accessible.
• Teachers at My Fun Science actively support and check in on students.
• The community aspect of My Fun Science helps families feel supported in their homeschooling journey.
• Parents can tailor their children's education based on individual needs and strengths.

More on My Fun Science:

• Website: https://myfunscience.com/
• Steps for WV Hope Scholarship Families

More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:

• Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!
• Questions? Email Us! kim@loveyourschool.org
• www.loveyourschool.org
• Visit our Facebook HERE!
• Visit our Instagram HERE!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.