The Education Breakdown

In this episode, we’re joined by Leah, Lindsay, and Serena as we explore how classical education, Charlotte Mason’s principles, and a Christian foundation come together to form the distinctive learning philosophy at the Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill.  The team from Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill discusses their educational philosophy, which is built on Classical, Christian, Ri...

In this episode, we dive into the dynamic world of game-based learning with longtime educator Meg Stone. With experience spanning public schools, gifted education, and hybrid learning, Meg brings a unique perspective on how games can transform the classroom into a vibrant, engaging, and highly effective learning environment. What you’ll learn in this episode: What is game-based learning? Discover...

In today’s episode of The Education Breakdown, we’re diving into hybrid schools—what they are, the different models available, and the many benefits they offer families. Hybrid schools combine the best aspects of homeschooling and traditional schooling, creating a flexible learning environment that works for a variety of needs.   We’ll explore:   What is a Hybrid School? An overview of how these p...

This week we’re diving into the intersection of two transformative educational approaches: Montessori and language immersion. In this episode, we’re joined by Angela Bailey, Head of School at the International Montessori School, a unique Montessori school that blends traditional Montessori instruction with an immersive language component in three different languages. We explore the benefits of lan...

In today’s episode, we’re talking to April Rehrig of Rise Educational Advocacy. We dive into the essential steps parents should take when they suspect their child may have a learning difference or developmental disability. Starting with the basics, April guides parents through the evaluation process—what it entails, who’s involved, and what kids can expect. We’ll also discuss the key differences b...

Winston sheds light on the essential features of Direct Instruction, explaining how its structured, scripted approach builds strong foundational skills in elementary students. As students advance into middle and high school, he describes how the Thales Academy curriculum transitions to emphasize Classical Education principles, fostering critical thinking, depth of knowledge, and strong communicati...

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, we take a deep dive into the classical model of education, exploring its history, structure, and the pros and cons of this time-tested approach.  Join us as we walk through the three pivotal stages of the trivium: the foundational Grammar Stage of early learning, the analytical Logic Stage of middle school, and the expressive Rhetoric Stage of high schoo...

It’s admissions season, and parents everywhere are feeling the pressure! With so many school options—public, charter, private, magnet, alternative, religious, homeschooling—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Are more choices always a good thing? While having options allows us to find the best fit for our kids, it can also lead to “analysis paralysis,” creating stress and anxiety for parents. In this e...

Today’s episode features an all-star panel of seven faculty members from Durham Academy. This esteemed college prep school is embracing forward-thinking changes, like adopting competency-based learning and phasing out AP classes. Join us to hear how DA is staying ahead of the curve.    Durham Academy   Connect with us on Instagram Connect with us on Facebook Site and Blog

Today we're joined by Brittni Winslow, an occupational therapist and executive director who provides insights about navigating special education services. She brings her professional and personal parenting experiences to assist listeners who may be embarking on this themselves. Check Brittni and her team here: Emerge Pediatric Therapy     Join Us: Instagram Facebook Site and Blog  

Are you considering applying to a K-12 private school for your child and curious about what the admissions process entails? Today we're talking to Linda Vargas, the Director of Enrollment at a renowned North Carolina private school, the Duke School.  In this episode we cover: What parents can expect from the private school admissions process How financial aid decisions impact admissions How to pre...

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Shannon, a passionate advocate for the Waldorf educational model, to explore her unique journey as a parent and the profound impact Waldorf education has had on her family. Join us as Shannon shares: Her personal story and the various educational approaches she considered before embracing Waldorf for her children. A vivid glimpse into a typical day in...

In this episode, Tom's flying solo and interviews Colleen Everhart, director of education, at the Emerson Waldorf School in Chapel Hill, NC. They discuss how the tenets of Waldorf education show up in the day-to-day life at school and help address the foundational philosophy of Waldorf Education, anthroposophy. If you are unaware of what life in a Waldorf school looks and feels like, check this ou...

In this episode we break down the history and theory behind the Waldorf educational method. What are the tenets and founding principals plus what are the critics saying about it? Listen to find out that and more!   Connect with us on Instagram Connect with us on Facebook Site and Blog

In this episode, we sit down with Gloria, a former public school teacher who made the transformative switch to Montessori homeschooling. She shares her firsthand experience navigating the challenges and turbulence within the public school system and how discovering the Montessori method reshaped her entire approach to education, leading her down a completely new and fulfilling path. Gloria now mai...

Sarah and Tom go heads up in a trivia matchup based on prior episodes and information shared. Who will reign victorious? Who retains information best? Listen to find out!   The Education Breakdown Site and Blog Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook

On today’s episode Tom and Sarah are highlighting key takeaways from their segments on homeschooling and then they are getting personal about their own journey with homeschooling...   The Education Breakdown Site and Blog Join us on Instagram Join us on Facebook

Are you interested in homeschooling AND Montessori? In this episode we talk with Pilar Bewley from the Mainly Montessori community about the pairing of the Montessori method with homeschooling. If you like the Montessori method but don’t have access to it in your community, homeschooling can be a great fit. Pilar discusses how Montessori and homeschooling perfectly complement each other as a way t...

On today’s episode we speak with Amber Crews, director at World Makers Co-op (Now Wildly Inclusive Co-op). Amber talks about her passion behind unschooling, what makes up the agile learning center model and how she’s bringing it to life. Please note: post-recording, the school’s name was changed to Wildly Inclusive Co-op.   wildlyinclusivecoop.com Wildly Inclusive Co-Op Instagram The Education Bre...

Considering homeschooling? Could it be right for your family? Today we talk to 3 homeschooling parents and learn about their various journeys into homeschooling. Each follow different methods of homeschooling and discuss what they love about homeschooling and their biggest challenges. Stay tuned for that and more..   The Education Breakdown Site and Blog Join us on Instagram Join us on Facebook

Homeschooling is now the fastest growing form of education in the United States. With so many different ways to homeschool, it is an exciting educational option for millions of families. Come find out why so many people are gravitating towards homeschooling and the common approaches and methods that people follow.   The Education Breakdown Site and Blog Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook   Con...

Today we’re discussing learning differences and neurodiversity with Bryan Brander, the Head of School at Hill Learning Center. Bryan highlights the best practices within the field that can benefit all students and he addresses common concerns that parents have when they are exploring educational options for their child who is neurodivergent or experiencing learning challenges. Hill Learning Center...

Parents Julie and Dylan, who are committed to finding the school environment that is best for each of their children, have experiences to share from public schools, private day schools, and alternative education methods as well. Learn about what guides them as parents and how they navigate the multitude of school choices available.   The Education Breakdown Site and Blog The Education Breakdown on...

After a year of our son attending a Montessori school, we sit down for a candid discussion. Join us as we reflect on the highs and lows of our journey, share our key takeaways about Montessori education, and offer practical advice for fellow parents navigating similar paths.   Site & Blog Join and follow us on Instagram Interact with us on Facebook

Join us today as we talk with Scott, a former public school teacher who is now a Montessori teacher at a private school. We discuss what drew him to Montessori and the myriad of benefits he sees in the Montessori approach.   The Education Breakdown Site/Blog Join us on Instagram Join us on Facebook