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.

Show Notes/Brief Summary/Blog Post:

In this episode of the We Have Hope podcast, host Kim Dully interviews Jon Loudermilk, a homeschooling dad and music educator. Jon shares his unique journey of taking on full homeschooling responsibilities while also running an online music education platform. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of homeschooling, the importance of parental involvement, and the flexibility of online learning. Jon discusses his approach to teaching guitar and songwriting, emphasizing the need for a supportive and engaging learning environment. The episode concludes with reflections on hope and the significance of education in shaping children's lives.

Episode Highlights:

• Jon Loudermilk is a homeschooling dad who also teaches music.
• Homeschooling allows for more family time and personalized education.
• Dads are increasingly involved in their children's education.
• Online lessons provide flexibility and accessibility for students.
• Parental involvement is crucial for children's development.
• Homeschooling can alleviate concerns about traditional schooling.
• The importance of community support in education.
• Music education can be tailored to individual interests and needs.
• Trial periods for online lessons help families assess fit.
• Hope in education is about providing opportunities for children.

Quotes:

• "You can't buy back your time."
• "You can do it however you want."
• "All my hope is in the Lord."

Connect with Jon Loudermilk and Mountaineer Christian Studios:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MountaineerChristianStudios/
• Email: jonwloudermilk@gmail.com
• Website: https://themcstudio.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 episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews Renee Smith, Chief Growth Officer of Williamsburg Academy. They discuss the importance of parental involvement in education, the unique approach of Williamsburg Academy in fostering critical thinking and leadership skills, and the challenges parents face during the middle and high school transitions. Renee emphasizes the need for parents to align their educational choices with their family values and the importance of empowering students to take charge of their own learning journey. The conversation also touches on the significance of community service and the role of mentorship in education.

Episode Highlights:

• Personalized education is essential for student success.
• Parents should identify their family values to guide educational choices.
• Critical thinking skills are crucial for navigating an uncertain future.
• Leadership courses can significantly benefit students' development.
• Parents need to be active participants in their child's education.
• Flexibility in education can accommodate diverse student needs.
• Communication between parents and schools is vital for student success.
• Students should be encouraged to advocate for themselves.
• Community service helps students develop empathy and responsibility.
• Education should focus on who students want to be, not just what they want to do.

Learn more about Williamsburg Academy:

• Website: Williamsburg Learning
• Work for Williamsburg: Job Opportunities

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 episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Kim Dully interviews David K Richards, founder and CEO of Changemaker Education. David shares his journey from banking to education and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of community, vision, and support in launching micro schools. He discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from educator to entrepreneur, the ideal characteristics of micro school leaders, and the significance of having a clear vision. The conversation emphasizes the role of hope in education and the potential for change in the educational landscape.

Chapters:

• 00:00 The Journey of David K Richards
• 02:50 The Birth of Changemaker Education
• 05:45 The Evolution of Education and Career Paths
• 08:45 Identifying Ideal Micro School Leaders
• 11:38 The Importance of Community and Support
• 14:30 Funding and Resources for Micro Schools
• 17:27 The Role of Vision in Education
• 20:16 Building a Movement in Education
• 23:16 Hope and the Future of Education
• 41:23 The Role of Hope in Education

Episode Highlights:

• David's journey from banking to education showcases the importance of following one's passion.
• Changemaker Education aims to support the launch of micro schools across the country.
• Community support is crucial for the success of new educational initiatives.
• Micro school leaders should have a strong vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Funding options for micro schools are available, but starting small is often sufficient.
• The importance of understanding the needs of families when starting a school.
• Building a movement in education requires collective hope and action.
• Clear vision and values are essential for the success of any educational venture.
• Networking and community engagement can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Hope is a driving force behind educational reform and innovation.

Quotes:

• "I wanted to change the education space."
• "There's always been a thread for me."
• "If you build it, they will come."

Connect with David Richards and more about Changemaker Education:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-k-richards-a1b43753/
• Website: Changemaker Education

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 episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Dr. Robin Harwick discusses the innovative approach of the Pearl Remote Democratic High School, emphasizing the importance of democratic education, student voice, and personalized learning. She highlights the need for educational practices that are grounded in research and relevant to students' lives, while also addressing the challenges faced by families navigating school choice and supporting students with special needs. The conversation underscores the role of hope in education and the goal of fostering a love for learning in students.

Episode Highlights:

• Democratic education empowers students to have a voice in their learning.
• Personalized and culturally relevant curriculum enhances student engagement.
• Research should inform educational practices to meet students' needs.
• Students learn valuable life skills through real-world applications.
• Creating a supportive community is essential for families and students.
• School choice provides opportunities for diverse educational experiences.
• Students with IEPs deserve tailored support in their learning environments.
• Hope is a guiding principle in fostering student motivation and engagement.
• Building relationships with students is key to understanding their needs.
• Education should prepare students for their future while valuing their present experiences.

Quotes:

• "We want families who value education."
• "We want to ignite that passion for learning."
• "We want to make sure that we are always bringing hope."

Where to purchase:

• Purchase The Democratic Classroom: Theory to Inform Practice, is the foundation of The Pearl High School by Art Pearl and Tony Knight

Connect with Dr. Robin Harwick and more about The Pearl:

• Email: drharwick@thepearlhighschool.org
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harwickr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePearlHighSchool/
• Website: The Pearl Remote Democratic High School
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_pearl_high_school/

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 episode of the We Have Hope podcast, Tammy shares her journey of co-parenting her grandson Hayden, who is on the autism spectrum. She discusses the challenges they faced in the traditional school system, including the struggle with socialization and the need for a structured learning environment. After advocating for Hayden's needs, they transitioned to homeschooling, which has allowed for a more personalized education experience. Tammy emphasizes the importance of community support, self-advocacy, and the hope she has for Hayden's future as they navigate this new educational path together.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Tammy's Journey
• 01:37 Navigating Education Challenges
• 05:17 Transitioning to Homeschooling
• 09:01 The Impact of Community and Support
• 13:03 Advocacy and Self-Determination
• 16:47 Hope for the Future

Episode Highlights:

• Tammy co-parents her grandson Hayden, who is on the autism spectrum.
• Hayden struggled in a traditional school setting due to socialization issues.
• Tammy and Hayden transitioned to homeschooling for a more personalized education.
• Community support played a crucial role in their homeschooling journey.
• Advocacy for Hayden's needs was essential in navigating the school system.
• Tammy emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy for children with special needs.
• The HOPE Scholarship helped facilitate their homeschooling experience.
• Tammy believes in the potential of children on the spectrum to thrive in a supportive environment.
• Hayden's excitement for homeschooling reflects his desire for a tailored learning experience.
• Tammy hopes to inspire other families to explore alternative education options.

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!
• Join the Hopeschoolers FB group!

This show has been produced by Love Your School WV.