The Classical Academies Partnering With Parents

Rebroadcast of episode 188, Building Strong Special Education Parent Partnerships. Originally released February 25, 2025. The Classical Academies is committed to supporting students with special needs through flexible, personalized special education programs. Program Specialist Regina Darling shares insights on creating collaboration between families and educators, addressing key challenges such a...

In this special 30-minute episode of the Partnering with Parents podcast, Melanie Hempe, founder of ScreenStrong, explains how excessive screen use affects children's developing brains. Drawing on years of research and experience, Hempe explains why young brains are especially vulnerable to screen dependency. She shares the warning signs parents should watch for, and offers practical strategies fo...

How can understanding the brain transform the way we parent and teach? Lindsay Morris is the author of Teach the Brain, Change the World , founder of Generation Wellness, and keynote speaker for this year’s JumpStart Parent Education Conference. She shares how brain-based strategies can strengthen emotional regulation, deepen relationships, and support learning at home and at school. She explains...

As students transition from middle school to the more independent environment of high school, they need to learn to manage responsibilities and solve problems on their own. While parents naturally want to help their children succeed, stepping in too quickly can prevent students from developing confidence, resilience, and accountability. High School Counselor Kennedy Ursua encourages families to sh...

What if writing weren't a separate subject, but the foundation for all learning? Julie Walker from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) unpacks the power of "writing across the curriculum", an approach that moves beyond isolated grammar instruction and weaves writing into every subject. By using history, science, and literature as the foundation for their writing, students can bypass writ...

Michael Craig, founder of Classic Test Prep, maps out a strategic plan for the application process. Walking year by year from freshman foundations to senior-year decisions, Michael shares how early financial planning, academic consistency, and thoughtful preparation can transform the college process for both students and families. Gain practical guidance on navigating standardized testing, includi...

Elena Czarnowski, founder of Kids Laboratories, is helping children become “re-imagineers”, creative problem-solvers equipped to improve the world around them. She shares how identity-based parenting, rooted in values and effort, can shape behavior and build confidence. Through STEM, AI, and a “scientist hat” approach to everyday conversations, she offers practical ways to develop resilience, curi...

Students labeled as “exceptional” often navigate unique learning challenges, both visible and invisible. Whether a child is managing dyslexia, ADHD, twice-exceptionality, or advanced giftedness, their needs deserve thoughtful, individualized support. In this episode, educational consultant Jennifer Mauser from the Institute for Excellence in Writing dives into the essential topic of teaching stude...

Early STEM experiences impact the innovators of tomorrow. Mike Sherman of Bristol-Myers Squibb shares how the company champions community engagement through events like Super STEM Saturday, offering students across San Diego hands-on science activities and access to diverse role models. From lab demonstrations to interactive experiments, the conversation highlights how real-world STEM exposure can...

Join us for a Super STEM Saturday mini episode! ASML’s Program Manager of Society & Community Engagement, Misti Benson, joins the conversation to share how one of the world’s most influential semiconductor companies helps power modern life. Through initiatives like Super STEM Saturday, Misti and her team demystify advanced technology and open doors for students who may not yet see themselves i...

Executive functioning and social-emotional learning are foundational skills that can be intentionally taught and strengthened, continuing to develop well into a person’s mid-20s. E3 Consulting’s Academic Specialists, Alethea Goodyear and Chloe Melvin, advocate for a supportive, proactive approach. They encourage parents and educators to explicitly model their own thinking processes, break complex...

The Science of Reading is a research-backed approach grounded in decades of neuroscience and psychology. English, Language, and Development Literacy Coordinator Jessica Hackenson explains that reading must be intentionally taught through clear, explicit instruction in foundational areas such as phonological awareness, systematic phonics, and background knowledge. Jessica shares practical ways pare...

Content Warning: This episode contains sensitive discussions regarding online child exploitation, grooming, and sextortion. While the goal of this conversation is to provide parents with protective tools and strategies, the subject matter may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. Brian Smith is the co-founder of the California Alliance Against Trafficking...

Pathfinders' Special Education program is dedicated to supporting students with significant special education needs academically, socially, and personally. Leah Moores, a Pathfinders' Special Education Teacher, explains how the program goes beyond traditional models by combining highly specialized, small-group instruction with meaningful inclusion in general education classrooms. With the help of...

Coastal Academy received the Purple Star designation awarded by the California Department of Education in 2025. School counselor and military liaison, Lisa Taylor, shares what this means for military families. She explains the unique challenges military-connected students face, including frequent relocations, academic adjustments, and social isolation. She describes how Coastal Academy supports it...

Teens face many pressures today, from demanding schedules and social media stress to uncertainty about life after graduation. Two Classical Academy High School seniors share how balancing academics, activities, and relationships can lead to anxiety and burnout, often in ways parents don’t fully see. They reflect on how open communication, healthy boundaries, and unconditional support help parent-c...

Discover proven, realistic ways to get a college degree with minimal or even zero student loan debt. From smart early planning and setting the right expectations to powerful cost-saving options like community college transfers, AP credits, and dual enrollment programs. Nicki Chase, Classical Academy High School (CAHS) Virtual Track Lead and Dual Enrollment Liaison, shares actionable strategies she...

Middle school marks a pivotal time as students transition from one primary teacher to several, face increasing academic expectations, and start seeking greater independence. It’s also a season when parents shift from manager to coach, learning to balance autonomy with meaningful guidance. Dawn Sullivan, a Classical Academy middle school teacher, shares insights on how families can nurture executiv...

Coastal Academy teachers Marie Orr and Nicole Hernandez explore practical strategies for motivating children in a homeschool setting. They discuss how routines, designated learning spaces, and consistent cues can help students transition smoothly into a learning mindset. They also share how to find the balance between structure and flexibility by offering choice, being prepared, and adapting teach...

The Classical Academies’ Transition Partnership Program (TPP) helps students with special needs transition from high school to adulthood by supporting them as they explore employment, continuing education, and independent living. TPP Specialist Melissa Hilbig and Instructor Deb Kissner share how students can identify their strengths, connect with opportunities, and gain the skills, strategies, and...

Math educator and AI pioneer, Professor Ved, explores how artificial intelligence can support early learning without replacing the human touch. He unpacks the power of math education in building confidence and problem-solving skills, and introduces the concept of a “super growth engine” fueled by practice, progress, and curiosity. Professor Ved shares how AI can personalize learning by identifying...

Dr. Thomas Armstrong, Executive Director of the American Institute for Learning and Human Development, discusses the importance of supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Armstrong shares how viewing neurodiversity as a strength, much like biodiversity or cultural diversity, can help parents reframe challenges, nurture their child's passions, and partner with teachers to highlight their child’s un...

Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, shares how families can nurture attentiveness and contemplation in children despite today’s digital distractions. He offers practical insights on how activities such as reading physical books, practicing cursive, spending time outdoors, reading aloud, and memorization strengthen focus, imagination, and critical thinking in ways scr...

Julia Nicholson, former CEO and author, shares her journey of overcoming adversity and how the power of perspective builds resilience. She reminds us that growth comes from taking the next step, not striving for perfection, and highlights the importance of focusing on what we have rather than what is missing. Julia explores the impact of self-talk, the value of celebrating small wins, and how shif...

Effective listening isn’t an innate talent—it’s a skill that takes focus, training, and a shared language. Christine Miles, founder of The Listening Path, reveals how intentional listening can transform relationships at home, in the workplace, and in the classroom. Drawing from her journey, she shares practical tools for asking open-ended questions. She introduces her three-step process—getting th...