The Education Breakdown

62. Is a Magnet School Right for Your Child? A Conversation with Wake County's Magnet Expert (feat. Tamani Powell)

If you've ever wondered what magnet schools actually are, whether your child "qualifies," or how the application process even works — this episode is for you. We sat down with Tamani Powell, Director in the Office of Magnet Programs at Wake County Public Schools, who has been living and breathing magnet education since 1998. She is, in every sense of the word, the expert.
Quick note: The second half of this episode gets into the specifics of applying to magnet schools in Wake County, NC (think Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, and surrounding areas). If you're a Wake County parent — or thinking of moving there — that part is pure gold. But if you're outside of Wake County, don't tune out. The first half covers the big-picture "what and why" of magnet schools that applies no matter where you live.
Here's a taste of what we cover:
The origin story — Why magnet schools were created in the first place, and how that mission still shapes how they operate today
The many flavors of magnet programs — From Gifted & Talented and language immersion to STEM, leadership, entrepreneurial design, and early colleges, Tamani walks us through what's actually out there
The "does my kid have to be gifted?" question — Spoiler: no. Tamani explains who these schools are really for
The K-12 pathway — How getting into a magnet elementary can set your child up with a connected community all the way through high school
The Wake County application process, step by step — Enrollment, touring, the application window, and how to build your ranking list strategically (but not too strategically)
Myth-busting the algorithm — Tamani debunks the #1 rumor she hears from parents
The best years to apply — Kindergarten, 6th grade, and 9th grade are your windows. Tamani explains why
Tamani's parting message is one we love: magnet schools are wonderful, but the right school is the one that works for your child and your family's life. Whether you're deep in the application process or just starting to wonder what all the fuss is about, this episode will leave you feeling more informed and a lot less overwhelmed.
Links & References
Overview of WCPSS Magnet Schools: https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools
WCPSS Magnet School Themes: https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools/magnet-school-directory 
WCPSS Magnet School priorities: https://www.wcpss.net/enrollment-resources/~board/enrollment-resources/post/application-priorities 
Wake County Round 2 Schools and Process: wcpss.net/round2

61. Building a School for Twice-Exceptional Students: The Story Behind Wonder Learning Center

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, we talk with Kelly Hayes, founder of Wonder Learning Center in Apex. Kelly shares how her path—from attorney to parent of twice-exceptional children—led her to create a learning environment designed specifically for gifted and neurodiverse middle and high school students.
Wonder operates as a hybrid micro-school for students in grades 6–12. In our conversation, Kelly walks us through:
The story behind founding Wonder and the family experiences that inspired it
The school’s guiding mission and philosophy
What a typical day/week looks like for students in the program
How learning is structured, including both guided instruction and unstructured time
Why Wonder prioritizes screen-free, relationship-focused learning
Examples of immersive learning experiences, including field trips, guest speakers, and creative interdisciplinary projects
Which students and families tend to thrive in the program—and important limitations families should understand
This episode is especially helpful for parents exploring:
Gifted education options
Neurodiverse-friendly learning environments
Small learning communities for middle and high school students
Alternatives to traditional school structures
To learn more about Wonder Learning Center, visit https://www.wonderlearningcenternc.com/

60. Inside the International Baccalaureate Program: How IB Works at Burton Elementary

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Dr. Tiffany Boss and Amy Sanchez explore the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and how it comes to life at Burton Elementary School. They break down the IB educational philosophy and explain what sets it apart from traditional elementary school models.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is and how the Primary Years Programme supports whole-child development
How IB emphasizes global citizenship, collaboration, inquiry-based learning, and social-emotional growth
The ways IB builds critical thinking, research, and communication skills through project-based learning and experiences 
How IB differs from traditional education models in both structure and classroom experience
What teacher training, professional development, and the IB accreditation process involve
How Burton Elementary implements IB successfully and supports students academically and emotionally
Key considerations and questions for parents deciding whether an IB elementary program is the right fit for their child
This episode is especially helpful for parents researching International Baccalaureate programs, IB elementary schools, and progressive public school options that prioritize inquiry, student agency, and global-minded learning.
Burton Elementary website: https://www.dpsnc.net/o/burton
Burton Elementary tour signup: https://forms.gle/68V9KonodvB7QTDT6 (also linked on our website)
Contact Information:
Amy Sanchez | amy_sanchez@dpsnc.net

59. Grades or Growth? Understanding Carolina Friends School’s Unique Assessment Model

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Sarah sits down with Uzma Bogwani and Michelle Hageman DeCamp from Carolina Friends School to explore how one school is redefining assessment—and why it works. Together, they unpack Carolina Friends School’s departure from traditional grading systems and shine a light on the powerful impact of narrative feedback, authentic learning experiences, and a whole-child approach to academic growth.
Listeners will learn how this Quaker-rooted school uses evidence-based assessment practices to foster confident, curious, self-directed learners who thrive in college and beyond.
What We Discuss:
Alternative assessment methods used at Carolina Friends School across grade levels
Authentic learning experiences and real-world engagement as core components of the curriculum
Formative assessment and ongoing feedback that help students understand their strengths and areas for growth
How colleges view narrative assessments, and why Carolina Friends students stand out in the admissions process
Personalized, pressure-free learning paths that allow students to pursue multiple interests
The benefits of risk-taking, curiosity, and self-discovery in environments without traditional grades
Common misconceptions about non-traditional assessment and how students transition successfully to higher education

58. Charter Schools 101: Misconceptions and More

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Stephanie Klupinski for a deep dive into the world of charter schools — how they work, what sets them apart, and how parents can make informed decisions.
Together, they explore:
What charter schools are and how they differ from traditional public schools
How funding and accountability work within the charter system
The admissions process, including lotteries and enrollment preferences
Special education services in charter schools and the legal responsibilities they hold
Key differences between states in how charter schools are authorized and supported
Common myths and misconceptions about charter schools
Stephanie also shares:
Her perspective on the history and future of the charter movement
The importance of collaboration between charter and traditional public schools
How parents can evaluate charter schools based on their family’s values, school governance, and transparency
Practical tips for parents, from visiting schools and attending board meetings to reviewing state report cards and teacher data
Whether you’re curious about charter schools, considering one for your child, or just want to better understand their role in public education, this episode provides a strong foundation to understanding the ins and outs of charter schools.
For more information about NC charter schools, visit https://triangleschoolconsulting.com/charter-schools-in-the-triangle/ 
For information on the mentioned episode about doing school tours, check out Episode 57 of The Education Breakdown Podcast  https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ne4rd-1986e51

57. When the ‘Best’ School Isn’t the Best

You’ve toured schools, flipped through glossy brochures, and listened to everyone tell you which school is “the best.” And yet… you still feel uncertain. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Choosing the right school for your child can feel overwhelming, especially when every option promises to be perfect.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the myths that often keep parents stuck during the school selection process. Using real stories from families I’ve worked with, I’ll help you see past flashy marketing, buzzwords, and reputations so you can focus on what truly matters: finding a school that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.
You’ll learn:
Why the “best” school on paper may not be the best fit for your child.
How to look beyond educational labels like Montessori, IB, or project-based learning to understand what’s happening day-to-day in the classroom.
The key things to notice during a school tour that reveal a school’s culture and philosophy in action.
How to stay focused on what really matters to your family — so you don’t get lost in the overwhelm of countless options.
If you’re in the middle of school tours or starting to explore different educational paths for next year, this episode is a must-listen. I’ll give you the tools and perspective to approach school selection with clarity and confidence — without feeling like you have to tour every school in your city.
Ready to narrow down your list of schools and find the right fit for your child? Schedule a consultation with me and let’s make this season of school choice feel manageable, focused, and aligned with your family’s values. Visit triangleschoolconsulting.com to connect.

56. Understanding the International Baccalaureate: Perspectives from Carolina Prep

Meet the International Baccalaureate (IB)—what it is, how it works, and why it might be the right fit for your student. If you’ve heard of the IB Program (International Baccalaureate) but felt unsure how it differs from a traditional education, this episode is for you. I’m joined by two wonderful guests from Carolina Preparatory Academy—formerly the middle and upper school of The Montessori School of Raleigh, rebranded in 2025—who live and breathe IB every day: Michelle Miller, IB Coordinator, and Dave Ratledge, IB Math/Science Team Lead.
In this episode, we cover:
IB 101: When and why IB was developed, its mission, and core tenets.
Depth over memorization: How IB cultivates critical thinking, inquiry, and real-world problem-solving—not just regurgitation.
IB vs. traditional models: Key differences in teaching style, assessment, and classroom experience.
IB vs. Honors/AP: What the workload actually looks like, how rigor compares, and who tends to thrive.
Common misconceptions: Especially around difficulty level and “how much is too much.”
Montessori alignment: How Carolina Preparatory Academy’s IB program naturally connects with Montessori principles and practices.
Whether you’re IB-curious or actively exploring advanced pathways, you’ll walk away with a clear, parent-friendly understanding of what IB is—and how it can shape confident, capable learners for life.
LInks:
Carolina Preparatory Academy: https://www.carolinaprepnc.org/
The Montessori School of Raleigh: https://www.msr.org/
Triangle School Consulting: https://triangleschoolconsulting.com

55. Breaking Down the ISEE & SSAT: A Parent’s Guide to Private School Entrance Exams

 If you're a parent exploring private elementary, middle, or high schools for your child, chances are you've heard about the ISEE and SSAT tests. In this episode, we're joined by Sheba Brown, founder of a trusted test prep company and longtime educator, to break down everything you need to know about these entrance exams.
We cover the key differences between the two tests—question types, testing formats, and scoring systems—plus how to decide which exam might be the better fit for your child. Sheba also shares practical tips on when to start preparing and how to use practice tests effectively.
Most importantly, we zoom out to talk about the bigger picture: how these scores fit into the overall admissions process and why they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Whether you're just starting the private school journey or deep in the application season, this episode will help you feel more confident and informed.
A+ Test Prep Resources Page:  https://aplushigherscores.com/resources/

54. How to Prevent Summer Learning Loss Without Killing the Fun

Summer should be full of popsicles, late bedtimes, and muddy adventures—but what about all that learning your child worked so hard for during the school year?
In this episode, Sarah breaks down the facts around summer learning loss (aka “the summer slide”) and why it matters—especially for young children. But don’t worry—this isn’t a lecture or a list of pricey programs. You’ll walk away with simple, affordable, and low-pressure ways to keep your child’s brain engaged this summer, without sacrificing fun or freedom.
From board games to bedtime reading, and even letting kids be bored, Sarah shares practical tips and a big dose of reassurance. Because yes—your child can keep learning all summer long…and still be a kid.
Resources Mentioned
Episode 1- Is Public School Right for My Child?
Episode 4- Public School Parent Interview re: Year-Round Schooling
Episode 38- Game On! All About Game-Based Learning
Best Summer Games and Books

53. Relocating with Kids? What to Know About School Searches

Moving to a new area with school-aged kids? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not the only one feeling overwhelmed. In this episode, we’re digging into one of the most stressful parts of relocating: choosing a school.
We discuss why relying on online ratings and rankings like GreatSchools might be leading you in the wrong direction—and what you should be focusing on instead. You’ll hear the biggest pitfalls families run into when using school ratings to choose where to live, and walk away with practical steps for structuring your search around fit, not just test scores.
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, this episode will help you feel more grounded, more informed, and more confident in your next steps.
💛 Need extra support with your school search during a move? Learn more about Sarah’s relocation consulting services at TriangleSchoolConsulting.com.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why school ratings can be misleading—and what they actually measure
How to ask the right questions when touring schools (even virtually!)
What to prioritize when building your school list
How to get honest, on-the-ground insight from local families
How a school consultant can make your transition easier
📩 Know a friend who’s moving? Send this episode their way—they’ll thank you later.

52. Please Yell at My Kids: Rebuilding the Parenting Village in America

What if the key to raising confident, independent kids isn’t doing more—but letting go a little? In this episode, we sit down with Marina Lopes, author of Please Yell at My Kids, to explore how community shapes childhood. Drawing from years of travel and conversations with parents around the globe, Marina shares insights into how different cultures support both children and caregivers. We talk about the loneliness of American parenting, the pressure to perform, and why the breakdown of extended families and community ties impacts our kids more than we realize. From spontaneous neighborhood playdates to rethinking our approach to parental control, this conversation invites us to imagine a more connected, less anxious way of raising children—one where we trust others, embrace imperfection, and build a village around our kids.
 
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51. Kindergarten Readiness: What Teachers Wish Every Parent Knew

Worried about getting your child ready for kindergarten? You’re not alone—and the good news is, it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. In this episode, we’ve gathered wisdom straight from seasoned kindergarten teachers to give you the real essentials of kindergarten readiness. No expensive supplies. No Pinterest-perfect crafts. Just everyday routines, bite-sized strategies, and developmentally supportive tips you can start today.
You’ll learn the 6 most important areas to focus on this summer—including social skills, independence, and early literacy—all shared with encouragement and realism. Whether you're feeling excited, anxious, or a little sad about this big transition, this episode is here to support you and your child.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
✅ What kindergarten teachers really want kids to be able to do✅ How to teach ABCs and counting without workbooks✅ Why independence matters more than early academics✅ The value of social-emotional readiness—and how to support it✅ How to make the transition smooth without creating pressure
 
Join us today!
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50. Is a Dual Language Immersion Program Right for Your Child?

If you’ve ever wondered whether enrolling your child in a dual language immersion (DLI) program is the right move, you’re not alone. As an education consultant, I hear this question all the time—and in this episode, we’re breaking it down together. We’ll dive into what DLI programs actually are, why they’re growing in popularity across the U.S., and what makes them so appealing to families hoping to raise bilingual kids.
You’ll learn:
The difference between 50/50 and 90/10 language models
The real benefits of bilingualism, from better memory to higher adaptability
Common concerns, like whether your child will fall behind in English
The type of child (and family) that tends to thrive in these programs
And key questions to ask before committing to a DLI school
Whether you’re excited about the idea of raising a bilingual child or feeling overwhelmed by what it would mean for your family, this episode is your starting point. As always, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but by the end, you’ll feel more confident knowing what to consider and what to ask.
 
Listen in, take what resonates, and remember—you know your child best.
 
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49. Personalized Learning for Every Student: Welcome to Fusion Academy

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Sarah sits down with Jenna Cheney and Brett Garrison from Fusion Academy, a unique one-to-one learning model with 84 locations across the U.S. They discuss how Fusion provides a personalized education experience for 6th–12th grade students, particularly those who need individualized support due to social, emotional, or learning differences.
Jenna and Brett share inspiring success stories of students who have thrived in Fusion’s flexible environment, which includes customized scheduling, virtual class options, and daily communication with parents. They also highlight the importance of socialization through clubs and activities, ensuring that students not only receive tailored academic instruction but also build essential social and teamwork skills.
Whether your child is struggling in a traditional school setting, needs executive functioning support, or is academically advanced and looking for a customized learning experience, this episode provides valuable insights into how a one-to-one education model can help students reach their full potential.
Tune in to learn more about how Fusion Academy is redefining personalized learning!
Fusion Academy dot com
 
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48. Should You Switch Schools? What to Consider Before Making a Change

As a parent, you want your child to feel safe, supported, and engaged in their learning. But what happens when something feels off? If your child dreads school, struggles academically, or faces ongoing challenges that aren’t improving, you may be wondering: Is this the right school for my child?
In this episode, I’ll walk you through:
Common reasons parents start questioning their child’s school fit, including:
A lack of support for learning differences or special needs
A mismatch between your child’s learning style and the school’s approach
Emotional distress, anxiety, or frequent school refusal
Social challenges, including bullying that isn’t being addressed
Logistical or family changes that make the current school less practical
How to assess whether the issues are temporary or long-term concerns
Steps to take before making a switch
Why trusting your instincts as a parent is so important in making the right decision
Switching schools is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By taking a thoughtful, step-by-step approach, you can determine whether a change is truly the best move for your child—and feel confident in whatever decision you make.
Listen in for practical guidance and reassurance as you navigate this process!
 
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47. Reggio Emilia Explained: The Power of Child-Centered Learning

Curious about the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education? In this episode, Sarah sits down with Jennie Ogden, a seasoned preschool teacher and director with 15 years of experience, to provide a primer on this child-centered philosophy. What makes Reggio Emilia unique? How does it encourage deep learning through play and exploration? Jennie breaks down the core principles, from child-led learning to the importance of environment and intentional teaching. She also shares insights from her visit to Reggio Emilia, Italy, offering real-world perspectives on how this approach nurtures creativity, curiosity, and respect for young learners. Tune in for a clear and engaging introduction to one of the most inspiring educational philosophies!
The Image of the Child by Loris Malaguzzi https://www.sightlines-initiative.com/images/Library/reggio/Your_Image_of_the_Child-Where_Teaching_Begins.pdf 
The Little School: https://thelittleschool.net/
 
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46. Why Should Parents Care About Different Educational Methods?

In this episode, Tom sits down with Sarah, who works as an Education Consultant, to explore why learning about different educational methods is essential for parents. They discuss the rapid pace of change in today’s world, what it really means for a child to be “successful,” and how parents can make informed choices about their child’s education. Sarah breaks down the impact of school choice on public education, the crucial role teachers play in student outcomes, and why more people don’t think critically about these factors. She also shares practical advice for parents looking to navigate the complex education landscape and make the best decisions for their children. Join Sarah and Tom for this fun and insightful conversation!
 
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45. Choosing the Best Preschool: What Every Parent Should Know

Join us as we learn from Maggie Connolly, an expert in early childhood education with nearly 50 years of experience! Maggie joins us to talk about what truly makes a great preschool environment and what parents should know when choosing the right fit for their child. 
 
In this episode you will hear:
Best practices in early childhood education like hands-on learning, unstructured play, and the importance of social-emotional development. 
Maggie’s list of the Top 5 things parents should look for when researching or touring a preschool for their child —what you should hear, see, and even feel in a thriving classroom. 
The challenges facing early childhood educators, including low teacher pay and its impact on the field. 
The importance of outdoor time, access to nature, and limiting screen time in early learning settings. 
 
If you have a young child and are considering what to do for preschool, Maggie offers an absolute wealth of knowledge that will leave you feeling inspired and confident to take on the challenge of finding a great school for your child.
 
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44. Charlotte Mason’s Revolutionary Ideas with Julie Ross

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Sarah sits down with Julie Ross, longtime educator, homeschooler, and founder of A Gentle Feast, to explore the revolutionary ideas of Charlotte Mason. They dive into Charlotte Mason’s emphasis on natural learning, rich literature, and real-world experiences.
Julie explains the concept of living books—narrative, engaging stories that ignite curiosity and foster deep thinking, unlike dry textbooks. She and Sarah also explore narration as a powerful higher-order thinking skill that helps children deeply process what they learn.
But Charlotte Mason’s philosophy goes beyond just reading—she believed children should experience the world. Sarah and Julie discuss the importance of hands-on learning: not just reading about science, but doing experiments; not just studying nature in books, but being in nature, observing and interacting with the world firsthand. They highlight why modern kids need more opportunities to see, touch, and engage with their surroundings to develop a love of learning.
If you’re a parent or homeschooler interested in learning more about Charlotte Mason or Julie’s work at A Gentle Feast, check her out at:
https://agentlefeast.com/
Instagram: @agentlefeast
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLC0fjzi4FCLtZFIPOgL-ZcN7za_LZU6d-&si=YTEnhXM1j1Py61WA 
Julie also created a 15% off code just for Education Breakdown listeners. It is edbreakdown15 and it is good till the end of the month. 
The free Charlotte Mason course Julie mentioned https://www.thefeastlife.me/opt-in
 
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43. Acton Academy: Could This Be the Dream School You’re Looking For?

What if there were a school that checked every box for your child’s education? A place where creativity, independence, and real-world skills take center stage? Your answer could be Acton Academy.
In this episode of The Education Breakdown, we explore the innovative approach of Acton Academy, a global network of learner-driven schools that’s flipping traditional education on its head. Here’s what you can expect:
A School That Breaks the Mold: Learn how Acton prioritizes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving over standardized tests and grades.
Real-World Learning in Action: Discover how project-based learning and Socratic discussions replace traditional lectures and tests.
Structured Independence: Students set goals, collaborate, and take charge of their education—no micromanaging required.
A Global Network with Local Roots: With 300+ schools worldwide, each Acton Academy shares a common philosophy while maintaining local independence.
Challenges to Consider: We touch on potential drawbacks, from reliance on technology to the importance of peer groups.
Additional Resources:
Want to hear directly from a student? Check out Episode 40 for a firsthand account from an Acton teen.
Curious to see Acton (and other schools) in action? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for exclusive behind-the-scenes looks.
Don’t Miss Out:If you found today’s episode helpful, don’t forget to:✔ Subscribe to The Education Breakdown✔ Leave us a review✔ Share this episode with other curious parents
Thanks for tuning in, and see you next week as we continue exploring innovative approaches to education!