The Education Breakdown

33. Understanding Classical Education: Is it right for your family?

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 school. 
We discuss the benefits of this model, such as cultivating 21st-century skills like critical thinking and communication skills. We also address some of the common challenges and criticisms of the classical model, from its perceived rigidity and Western-centric focus to its accessibility and adaptation for modern learning needs. 
Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about different educational philosophies, this episode offers a balanced perspective on the classical model and its relevance in today's world.
 
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32. School Choice Anxiety: 6 Tips for Staying Grounded During Admissions Season

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 episode, we explore the emotional side of school admissions and discuss why so many parents feel the weight of this decision. As a school consultant, I help families navigate this process every day. Join me as I share my top 6 tips for staying grounded during admissions season. Whether it’s establishing realistic location and budget constraints or simply trusting your gut, these strategies are designed to reduce stress, ease your mind, and help you make confident choices for your child’s future.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep in decision-making, this episode will help you keep your sanity intact and feel empowered as a parent. Let’s tackle this admissions season together!
 
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31. School Spotlight: Durham Academy

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. 
 
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30. Navigating Special Education: A Guide From An Occupational Therapist

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.
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Emerge Pediatric Therapy
 
 
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29. Applying to Private Schools: Everything You Need to Know

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 prepare for school visits and shadow days
Do's and Don'ts of touring a private school  
What advice current families have for parents who are about to begin the admissions process
 
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28. A Glimpse Into a Waldorf Parent's Mind

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 the preschool classrooms of her child’s Waldorf school.
Common misconceptions surrounding Waldorf education and the truths behind them.
The foundational principles of Waldorf education and how they influence her family’s daily routines.
The vital role of rhythm in Waldorf education and the positive effects it has on young children’s development.
This episode is sponsored by Kathleen Tarrant : realtor in the greater Durham NC area. 
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27. The Heart of Waldorf: Insights From a Seasoned Educator

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 out.
Leave us some comments / feedback if you listened!
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26. Is a Waldorf Education Right for My Child?

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!
 
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25. Inside the System: Gloria's Shift from Public School to Montessori

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 maintains and runs an online Montessori community with a myriad of resources for families interested in learning more and connecting with like minded souls. Check her out here:
http://www.instagram.com/montessorimamalife
http://www.patreon.com/montessorimamalife
 
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24. Trivia Challenge: Sarah vs Tom

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!
 
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23. Homeschooling: Let's Get Personal

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...
 
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22. Homeschooling With Montessori: Structure, Freedom, and Success

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 to follow the child while also providing structure and curriculum. We discuss the negative effects of standardized testing that Pilar has seen in previous Montessori schools and we hear about her community where she provides step-by-step support and guidance to parents who are interested in Montessori homeschooling.
 
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21. Agile Learning and the Co-op Revolution: Adapting Together

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.
 
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20. Homeschooling Journeys: Different Paths, Common Dreams

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..
 
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19. Think Homeschooling Isn't For You? Think Again.

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.
 
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18. Navigating Neurodiversity and Learning Differences

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.
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17. One Family's Quest: Exploring Public, Private and Alternative Schools

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.
 
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16. Montessori Realities: One Year In

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.
 
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15. A Move From Public School to Private Montessori: One Teacher's Story

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.
 
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14. From College Prep to Montessori: One Family's Journey

In today's episode we sit down with Jamie, a mother of three, whose children attend private schools with distinct educational philosophies. Join us as Jamie shares her journey from decades of experience in a prestigious college-prep private school to embracing the Montessori method. We delve into the unique aspects of Montessori education and explore why it resonated with Jamie. Additionally, we discuss the detrimental effects of letter grades on students’ learning.
 
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