Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Cindra McCoy, the founder of Guide Dots, an innovative art education program designed to empower children through creativity. Cindra shares her journey from art educator to entrepreneur, discussing the importance of fostering artistic confidence in children, especially those who are neurodiverse. The conversation explores the decline of artistic expression in children, the significance of choice in learning, and the balance between structure and freedom in art education. Cindra emphasizes the need for resilience and problem-solving skills in young artists, advocating for a multi-passionate approach to learning that encourages children to embrace their creativity without limitations. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of asking for help and the role of creativity in fostering hope and empowerment in education.

Episode Highlights:

• Cindra McCoy founded Guide Dots to empower children through art.
• Art education can significantly impact neurodiverse children.
• Children often lose their love for art as they grow older.
• Creativity is essential for problem-solving skills.
• Art should be valued as much as core subjects in education.
• Guide Dots provides a structured yet flexible approach to art education.
• Encouragement is crucial for building children's artistic confidence.
• Children can be multi-passionate and excel in various areas.
• Asking for help is a vital skill for both children and adults.
• Art fosters resilience and self-expression in children.

Learn more about Guide Dots:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guidedotart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guidedots/
• Website: https://guidedots.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.

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this special 100th episode of the We Have Hope podcast, host Kim Dully celebrates the journey and discusses the vital role of parental involvement in children's education. She shares practical steps for parents to actively participate in their child's learning experience, emphasizing the importance of building a supportive community and encouraging resilience in children. The episode serves as a motivational guide for parents to engage with educators and foster a positive educational environment for their children.

Episode Highlights:

• This podcast is for you, the parents, the listeners.
• Parents need to be involved in their child's education.
• What is the education setting that is best for my child?
• The most overwhelming key to a child's success is the positive involvement of parents.
• There is always something that we can do to contribute to our child's education.
• Attend an orientation or an open house to show support.
• Download communication apps to stay informed about your child's education.
• Showing up to school events matters for your child's morale.
• Encourage your child to show up every day and put in their best effort.
• Building a supportive community around your child is crucial for their success.

More on Love Your School:

• 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, Kim Dully interviews Naomi Rubin DeVeaux from the Drexel Fund, discussing the importance of school choice, particularly for low-income and neurodivergent families. They explore the mission of the Drexel Fund, the challenges of starting new schools, and the need for accessible education options. Naomi shares insights on supporting school founders, the role of boards in school management, and the significance of creating innovative learning environments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of flexibility in education and the hope for a future where every child can thrive in a school that meets their unique needs.

Episode Highlights:

• The Drexel Fund supports schools for low-income and neurodivergent students.
• Accessibility in education is crucial for all families.
• Communication about school options is often lacking.
• Founders need support and resources to start schools.
• Challenges in school startups include funding and logistics.
• Building a supportive community is essential for school success.
• Having a board can provide valuable guidance and support.
• Educators should feel empowered to pursue their ideas.
• Innovative learning environments can cater to diverse needs.
• Flexibility in education is key to meeting student needs.

Learn more about The Drexel Fund:

• One Pager: The Drexel Fund Overview.pdf
• Website: https://drexelfund.org/

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.