What I Want to Know, with Kevin P. Chavous

In this episode of What I Want to Know, host Kevin P. Chavous sits down with Shaka Mitchell, Senior Fellow at the American Federation for Children and a national leader in education reform. From classrooms to courtrooms, Shaka has been at the center of the fight for school choice, charter schools, and equitable education policy. Together, they explore whether choice truly expands opportunity, how legislation is reshaping access, and what the future of education innovation might look like. Chapters [00:00] Introduction & framing the debate [01:10] Shaka Mitchell’s personal education story [03:50] How inequities sparked the school choice movement [05:31] Is choice enough to ensure quality? [06:36] Why choice can be catalytic for students [09:34] Ensuring access for underserved families [12:50] School choice across rural and urban America [15:22] Regulation, charter schools, and innovation [18:26] What true innovation in schools could look like [24:30] Finding common ground in a divided system [27:51] What’s next for school choice and federal programs Useful Links Learn more about Shaka Mitchell and the American Federation for Children: https://www.federationforchildren.org Explore K12-powered schools: https://www.k12.com/podcast Learn more about Stride, Inc. and online education: https://www.stridelearning.com Follow Kevin P. Chavous on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinpchavous Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

Every once in a while, there's a story that stops you in your tracks - a reminder of what's possible when someone refuses to let their circumstances define them. In this episode, host Kevin P. Chavous shares one of those stories with David Heiber, CEO and founder of Concentric. David's journey reads like something out of a movie: from serving time in prison to earning a doctorate, from being pushed out of the education system to helping over 70,000 students find their way back in. This isn't just a conversation about second chances—it's about what happens when someone decides to go against the tide, stop waiting for the system to fix itself, and build something that actually works for the kids who need it most. Guest David Heiber - CEO and Founder of Concentric, educational entrepreneur, author, advocate Key Moments [00:00] Prison-to-Doctorate Journey [07:00] The Judge Who Changed Everything [12:30] From Rejection to Reinvention [19:00] Founding Concentric [23:00] 500,000 Home Visits [27:00] Scaling to 20 States [32:00] The Future of Urban Education Resources Mentioned Concentric — David’s education company: https://concentriced.org Lincoln University — The HBCU that gave David his second chance: https://www.lincoln.edu New Schools Venture Fund — Early backer of Concentric: https://www.newschools.org Temple University — Where David studied Afrocentricity under Molefi Asante: https://www.temple.edu Connect with David Heiber Company: https://concentriced.org Book: Available through major retailers; accessible follow-up Eccentricity coming soon Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

Corey DeAngelis joins Kevin P. Chavous to unpack the rapid rise of the education freedom movement. They explore school choice’s impact on public schools, bipartisan momentum, the role of teachers’ unions, and how personalized learning will reshape education’s future. Corey DeAngelis is a leading voice in the school choice movement, a researcher, author, and advocate for giving parents control over their children’s education. He currently serves as a senior fellow at the American Federation for Children and is affiliated with multiple education policy think tanks. Chapters 00:00 – The Winds Are Shifting 00:13 – What Drives School Choice 01:00 – Corey’s Path to Advocacy 02:10 – Key Research Findings 03:51 – Leaving Academia 05:51 – Growing Support Nationwide 08:48 – Union Resistance 09:30 – Public School Gains 23:20 – The Future of Personalized Learning Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

Kris Stewart leads Ohio Virtual Academy, the largest high school in the state and one of just two virtual schools in the U.S. with a RAMP-certified counseling program. With 17,000 students and 750 staff, she’s proving that online learning can deliver real connection, support, and results. In this episode, Kris joins Kevin to share how her team tracks student well-being daily, supports mental health with wraparound services, and helps students earn industry credentials before they even graduate. She also explains how AI, co-teaching pods, and intentional leadership keep students engaged and why real student success starts with paying attention. If you want to understand what virtual education looks like at scale and how to do it right this is the episode to hear. Chapters 00:00 – OHVA is one of two RAMP-certified virtual schools 01:35 – Kristin’s path into teaching and leadership 04:00 – Leading a school of 17,000 with care and purpose 07:00 – Supporting student mental health 12:00 – Building real community online 14:00 – Why engagement starts with adults 17:00 – Using AI and teaching critical thinking 21:00 – Career paths, certifications, and job readiness 25:00 – Kristin’s vision for modern education Join the Conversation Share your thoughts with #WIWTK Follow us: Twitter/X – @wiwtkpodcast Facebook – facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast Instagram – @wiwtkpodcast Enjoyed the episode? Leave a review and help us rethink what school can be.

In this episode, Kevin sits down with Jennifer Kolb, Vice President of Workforce Development at MedCerts, to examine a growing question: What if college isn’t the only path to a good career? They dive into how MedCerts is helping high school students land well-paying jobs in healthcare—no four-year degree required. From AI-powered training to employer-backed certifications, Jen shares how this new model is reshaping how students prepare for work, and why school systems—and employers—are paying attention. They also unpack the rise of career exploration in high school, how virtual learning is filling CTE gaps in rural communities, and why more hospitals are looking to students, not job boards, to solve their talent shortages. If the goal is employment—not just education—then maybe it’s time we rethink the route entirely. This might be what you want to know. What You’ll Learn 02:00 – How Jen’s brother’s welding career changed her view on success 04:00 – Why Gen Z is questioning the college-default mindset 07:00 – The TikTok effect: new ambitions, new paths 09:00 – Inside MedCerts: what it is, how it works, and who it helps 12:00 – How schools and employers partner to build career pathways 15:00 – Virtual healthcare training—with AI-powered patient simulations 20:00 – What students gain: faster job access and a foot in the door 24:00 – Jen’s advice to teens unsure about their future Go Deeper with Jennifer Kolb Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kolb Explore MedCerts: https://medcerts.com Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

In this episode, Kevin sits down with Vida Williams, Chief Data Officer at Stride, to explore the promise—and risks—of artificial intelligence in education. From personalized tutoring to curatorial learning, they dive into how AI is reshaping what it means to teach, learn, and build trust in a digital world. They discuss how AI can reduce teacher overload, personalize instruction, and expand access—but also unpack why how we build it matters as much as what we build. And in a world where machines are getting better at guiding student learning, they ask a fundamental question: What’s the role of the human in the future of education? If education is a shared journey, should machines walk with us? This might be what you want to know. What You’ll Learn 01:30 – Why Vida left energy & healthcare to focus on education 03:00 – What a Chief Data Officer actually does in a K–12 company 05:00 – Why protecting student data is now non-negotiable 07:30 – AI’s real use in classrooms: less grading, more learning 09:00 – “The resurgence of library science” and curatorial learning 11:30 – How personalized AI tutors support (not replace) teachers 13:00 – Socratic learning vs. automation: can AI do both? 16:00 – What young learners really want from AI 18:30 – Guardrails, dialects & equitable access in AI design 21:00 – Why teachers must shape the future of AI tools 25:00 – Are we all becoming cyborgs? And is that a bad thing? Go Deeper with Vida Williams Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vida-williams/ Learn about Stride Learning: https://www.stridelearning.com Explore Stride Tutoring: https://tutoring.k12.com Read more on ethical AI in education: https://www.edweek.org/technology Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

Public dollars. Private schools. Political firestorms. In this episode, Kevin talks with long-time school choice advocate John Schilling about what happens when education funding follows the student instead of the system. They dig into the proposed federal scholarship tax credit: what it is, who it helps, and why supporters say it's about opportunity—not ideology. Opponents fear it's the beginning of the end for public schools. Advocates say it's already helping students, especially those in underserved communities. From Florida’s model programs to Washington’s sharp divisions, this conversation reveals how political will, policy design, and real family needs are shaping the future of school choice. If education is supposed to be about students, then maybe the money should be too. This might be what you want to know. What You’ll Learn 01:30 – Why John Got Into School Choice 04:30 – State Politics vs. Federal Legislation 07:30 – What Is a Federal Tax Credit for Education? 09:00 – Florida as a School Choice Success Story 10:30 – How Federal Credits Could Expand Access Nationwide 12:00 – Will This Hurt or Help Public Schools? 15:00 – Research on Outcomes for Scholarship Students 16:30 – Can We Take the Politics Out of Education? 19:30 – What’s Next for the Legislation? Go Deeper with John Schilling 🔗 Learn about EdChoice research: https://www.edchoice.org/research/ 🔗 Explore the American Federation for Children: https://www.federationforchildren.org/ 9:30 – What’s Next for the Legislation? Go Deeper with John Schilling 🔗 Learn about EdChoice research: https://www.edchoice.org/research/ 🔗 Explore the American Federation for Children: https://www.federationforchildren.org/ ---------------------------------------------------- Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

We’re re-releasing this episode because the questions it raises are more relevant than ever. In 2025, as technology transforms how students learn and entire industries evolve, the role of educators is shifting rapidly. Classrooms are becoming more digital, expectations more complex, and the pressure to keep students engaged—and prepared for the future—has never been greater. Yet, many teachers are stepping away. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half of public education employees who leave the field aren’t retiring or laid off. They’re choosing to resign. Amid ongoing challenges like burnout, staffing shortages, and shifting school environments, educators are asking: How do we keep going—and keep growing? That’s why we’re revisiting this conversation with 2023 National Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson. A math teacher from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Rebecka speaks with warmth, clarity, and an unshakable belief in the power of human connection. Her story is a reminder that joy, purpose, and sustainability in teaching are still possible—even in a time of change. Why this encore? Because Rebecka’s reflections on resilience, creativity, and care offer both inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone invested in the future of education Episode Highlights + Timestamps: 00:00 — Why great teachers leave (and why it matters) 01:30 — Rebecka's immigrant journey & early love for teaching 06:00 — "I'm not a math person" and the cultural damage of that phrase 09:00 — How Rebecka builds trust: "Kids spell love T-I-M-E" 12:00 — The math teacher shortage: only 25 graduates in her entire state 15:00 — The "One Good Thing" blog that saved her teaching career 19:00 — From burnout to National Teacher of the Year 24:00 — What every teacher (and school leader) should be asking 28:00 — Advice to teachers on the brink of burnout 31:00 — The power of reflection, systems, and 1% growth Meet Rebecka Peterson: Rebecka is a high school math teacher at Union High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the 2023 National Teacher of the Year. She uses storytelling and connection to bring math to life and help every student feel seen. K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrolment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connections, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 Join the Conversation: Use #WIWTK on social media to share your thoughts. Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ Listen on your favorite platform: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... https://open.spotify.com/show/5KkzBkz... https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/013... Explore more at: stridelearning.com

This is an encore episode — and with good reason. As the school year winds down and summer approaches, the “summer slide” — the loss of academic progress over the break — becomes a very real concern once again. Without intentional learning opportunities, students can lose ground they’ve worked hard to gain, making each new year harder than the last. In this conversation, Kevin revisits a timely discussion with Aaron Dworkin, CEO of the National Summer Learning Association, about how the right summer programs don’t just prevent learning loss — they help students come back stronger, more confident, and ready for what’s next. Because summer doesn’t have to be a setback. It can be a springboard. This is what I know. Meet Aaron Aaron Dworkin is the CEO of the National Summer Learning Association, which works to ensure all young people in America, especially the most vulnerable, can access and afford a high-quality summer learning experience every year. —----------------------------------------------- K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrolment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connections, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ WIWTK Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast/ WIWTK Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ Now Streaming: Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/5KkzBkz... Google Podcasts – https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/013...

College. Careers. Credentials. Teens today are facing big decisions—and most don’t even know where to start. In this episode, Kevin P.Chavous talks with Allison Danielsen, CEO of Tallo, about why the old ways of guiding students—career quizzes, outdated job charts, one-size-fits-all advice—no longer cut it. Allison’s team is building a digital career co-pilot designed to help Gen Z explore real career paths, learn relevant skills, and connect directly with schools, scholarships, and employers. They discuss why most career journeys aren’t linear (including Allison’s own winding path through retail, education, and consulting), how exposure—not pressure—is the key to better decisions, and why parents are still the most influential voice in the room. This might be what you want to know. What You’ll Learn 03:00 – Why Most Career Advice Doesn’t Work Anymore 05:40 – The Myth of the One-Perfect-Path 07:20 – What Gen Z Needs That Counselors Aren’t Giving 09:00 – How the Tallo Platform Works (and Why It’s Free) 11:15 – Why Waitressing, Bowling, and Retail Still Count 13:00 – Making Career Discovery a Lifelong Process 15:45 – What Employers, Parents, and Teens All Miss 18:10 – Turning Panic into Possibility Go Deeper with Allison Danielsen 🔗 Explore Tallo’s digital career co-pilot: https://tallo.com 📊 See how students explore, match, and take action: https://tallo.com/students 👤 Connect with Allison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisondanielsen/ Redefine Learning with K12-Powered Education Help your child build the confidence, skills, and vision to thrive beyond high school. K12-powered online schools offer: ✅ Tuition-free options with flexible learning ✅ Certified teachers and personalized support ✅ Career and college prep built for Gen Z ✅ Safe, structured, home-based environments 🎯 See if a K12-powered school is right for your family: 🔗 go.k12.com/podcast 📚 Need extra help? Explore: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective or questions. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

During lockdown, a math teacher and his son 3D-printed a board game on their kitchen table. Now it’s transforming how students feel about math—and school in general. In this episode, Eric Olsen, principal of Idaho Technical Career Academy, joins Kevin to share how his creative approach to teaching, including developing innovative tools like the board game “Glyphics,” inspires students and shapes the future of education. Jump to: 03:09 – School Without Walls 04:48 – Future-Proof Pathways 05:11 – Glyphic: Born on a Kitchen Table 07:30 – Pictionary for People Who Hate Math 08:26 – TED Talks, But Make It Personal 10:55 – Students Choose the Lesson 13:04 – Outsmarting AI 15:57 – Learning From Kids 16:58 – “Not as Bad as I Thought” 17:31 – Full Circle 🎲 Learn More About Eric & Glyphic 📰 Read: Math Teacher Game Idea – Interview with Glyphic’s Designer Eric Olsen https://casualgamerevolution.com/blog/2022/10/math-teacher-game-idea-interview-with-glyphics-designer-eric-olsen 👤 Connect with Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-olsen-88250630/ Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways, including healthcare programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation! 📢 Use #WIWTK on social media to share your thoughts on today’s episode! 📱 Follow & Connect: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to leave a review and let us know what you think!

Fluorescent lights. Constant noise. Rigid schedules. For a lot of kids with special needs, school was less a place to learn and more a daily test of endurance. In this episode, Jenny Kendall—a national leader in special education—joins Kevin to talk about what happens when you take students out of a system that was never designed for them and build something better. Virtual learning isn’t a compromise. For many, it’s a relief. They get into how online education strips away environmental distractions, how real success hinges on teamwork between families and educators, and why AI and assistive tech might be the biggest breakthroughs in special education—if outdated policy doesn’t slow it all down. How do you build an education system that actually fits the student—not the other way around? And what happens when technology moves faster than the rules meant to govern it? This might be what you want to know. What You’ll Learn 03:12 – Why the Classroom Was the Barrier 06:05 – Success = Commitment + Customization 08:30 – Online vs. In-Person: Who Does It Better? 11:35 – How a Virtual School Day Actually Looks 14:10 – Fixing the Special Ed Teacher Shortage (Hint: Go Remote) 16:20 – Autism, Anxiety & The Safety of Learning at Home 19:00 – AI Knows Your Kid Is Struggling Before You Do 21:15 – Outdated Laws vs. Next-Gen Learning Go Deeper with Jenny Kendall 🔗 Explore Stride’s Approach to Special Education: stridelearning.com 🔗 See How Assistive Technology Powers Learning: stridelearning.com/assistive-tech 👤 Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennykendall Redefine Learning with K12-Powered Special Education Forget one-size-fits-all. K12’s online programs are built to adapt—especially for students with exceptional needs. Join the millions of families choosing a flexible, personalized path: ✅ Certified teachers specializing in virtual special education ✅ Tailored IEP support & advanced assistive technology ✅ Safe, customized home learning environments ✅ Career-readiness programs designed for diverse learners 🔗 Secure your spot today: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/ 🔗 Need extra support? Explore K12 Tutoring: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let’s reshape the conversation around education.

Since the pandemic, the demand for online tutoring has surged by 200%, with families seeking flexible, effective, and accessible academic support for their children. But does virtual tutoring truly measure up to in-person sessions? Research from the Annenberg Institute and Johns Hopkins University suggests that well-designed virtual tutoring can significantly boost student performance—often rivaling traditional face-to-face methods. So, what sets the most effective virtual tutoring programs apart? And beyond academics, can they build confidence and spark a love for learning? To explore these questions, Kevin P. Chavous is joined by Jennifer Moore, General Manager of K12 Tutoring. With firsthand experience leading K12’s nationwide online tutoring service, Jennifer shares key insights into what makes virtual tutoring successful and how it’s shaping the future of education. —-------------------- Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways, including healthcare programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 —------------------------ Join the Conversation! 📢 Use #WIWTK on social media to share your thoughts on today’s episode! 📱 Follow & Connect: 🔹 Twitter/X –https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to leave a review and let us know what you think!

During lockdown, a math teacher and his son 3D-printed a board game on their kitchen table. Now it’s transforming how students feel about math—and school in general. Meet Eric Olsen, the STEM rebel behind Glyphic, and principal of Idaho Technical Career Academy, where Zoom school gets a creative upgrade. From TikTok-style math reels to student-led TED Talks, Eric’s not just teaching equations—he’s rebuilding confidence, attention spans, and joy in learning. (Yes, really.) So what happens when you let kids teach? What happens when you stop lecturing and start building? Let’s find out. Jump to: 03:09 – School Without Walls 04:48 – Future-Proof Pathways 05:11 – Glyphic: Born on a Kitchen Table 07:30 – Pictionary for People Who Hate Math 08:26 – TED Talks, But Make It Personal 10:55 – Students Choose the Lesson 13:04 – Outsmarting AI 15:57 – Learning From Kids 16:58 – “Not as Bad as I Thought” 17:31 – Full Circle 🎲 Learn More About Eric & Glyphic 📰 Read: Math Teacher Game Idea – Interview with Glyphic’s Designer Eric Olsen https://casualgamerevolution.com/blog/2022/10/math-teacher-game-idea-interview-with-glyphics-designer-eric-olsen 👤 Connect with Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-olsen-88250630/ Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12’s innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child’s education. 🔗 Learn more about K12’s career pathways, including healthcare programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation! 📢 Use #WIWTK on social media to share your thoughts on today’s episode! 📱 Follow & Connect: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to leave a review and let us know what you think!

This is an encore episode of What I Want to Know, revisiting one of our most impactful conversations on the power of storytelling. Storytelling isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a crucial tool for learning, connection, and confidence-building in children. In this episode, host Kevin P. Chavous sits down with award-winning children's book author and NPR Foundation board member Jesse Byrd to discuss how storytelling shapes young minds, promotes literacy, and empowers kids to see themselves in the stories they read. 🎙 In This Episode: ✔️ How storytelling fuels language and cognitive development ✔️ The journey from a tech career at Google to writing for children ✔️ Overcoming rejection and breaking into publishing ✔️ The need for diverse representation in children's books ✔️ Teaching kids to think critically about the stories they consume ✔️ The role of storytelling in social media and digital literacy ✔️ Navigating book bans and challenges in education 📚 Guest Spotlight: Jesse Byrd Jesse is a celebrated children's book author, publisher, and advocate for inclusive storytelling. He has read to over 25,000 kids and worked with Airbnb Experiences to bring virtual storytime to families and corporations. His mission? Making sure every child sees themselves reflected in literature. 🔗 Resources & Links: 👉 Learn more about Jesse Byrd: [Website / Socials] 👉 Explore Stride Learning: https://www.stridelearning.com 👉 Follow Kevin P. Chavous on social: #WIWTK 📢 Join the Conversation: How has storytelling impacted your life? Comment below or share your thoughts using #WIWTK on social media! 🚀 If you found this episode valuable, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you never miss an inspiring discussion. Let’s keep learning, together! 🔥 —------------------------------------------------ Preparing your child for a successful future? K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their educational journey. Enrollment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. Key features include: State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction Innovative curriculum Extensive family support K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed Accredited program offering engaging classes for all learner levels, including advanced students and those with special needs More family time and engaging class connects Opportunity for your child to thrive academically Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podca... —----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Now Streaming: Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/5KkzBkz... Google Podcasts – https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Amazon Music – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/013… —-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 💬 Join the conversation & leave a review! 📌 Twitter/X: https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 📌 Facebook: https://facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 📌 Instagram: https://instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast

Imagine spending 17 hours competing in one of the biggest fencing tournaments in the world and winning a bronze medal. That's exactly what Joseph Guth, a student at Ohio Virtual Academy, did at the Paris Foil Competition. But his story is even more incredible because he's also an eighth grader balancing his schoolwork with training for international events. In this episode of What I Want to Know, Joseph shares how online school can make chasing big dreams possible. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 1:21 - How Joseph got involved in fencing 3:08 - Training in unconventional spaces and starting a fencing club 5:04 - The grueling Paris Foil Competition explained 6:49 - Managing nerves during high-stakes matches 7:14 - Training in Italy and preparing for the Cadet National Championship 8:12 - Balancing academics and international fencing with Ohio Virtual Academy 10:02 - Joseph's academic achievements while pursuing fencing 10:56 - Advice for other student-athletes considering online learning 12:38 - The future of personalized education and Joseph's experience 13:48 - Overcoming skepticism about online learning and socialization 14:49 - Final thoughts and advice for students and parents Read More on Joseph: https://www.cleveland.com/community/2024/03/joseph-guth-of-pepper-pike-earns-bronze-medal-at-international-fencing-tournament-in-paris.html https://clevelandfencingacademy.com/the-bronze-chase-joseph-guths-marathon-journey-at-the-paris-foil/ https://www.chagrinvalleytoday.com/communities/pepper_pike/article_e23b65e6-8c81-11ef-aa36-7b8cba9dff85.html —----------------------------------------------- K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrolment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connections, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/

National School Choice Week is January 26th through February 1st! We've put together expert highlights from our previous "What I Want To Know" podcast episodes, featuring key insights from education leaders, parent advocates, and school choice experts. EPISODE SEGMENTS: 00:00 Intro 00:02 State of School Choice with Andrew Campanella Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rok1pSPaGUQ 00:03 Beyond One-Size-Fits-All with Kayla Svedin Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k79TKloHGok 00:05 Finding the Right School with Jon Deane Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p_ja4Q7BtQ 00:07 Parents & Teachers United with Shree Recasner Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaEe6iQwTM4 00:09 Tomorrow's Classroom with Robert Pondiscio Full Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBMrdYfpK40 —----------------------------------------------- K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrolment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connections, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/

In this encore episode, Kevin P. Chavous revisits an important conversation with Linda Charmaraman, founder and director of the Youth Media and Wellbeing Research Lab at Wellesley College. With a potential TikTok ban looming in the U.S.—which could take effect as early as January 19, 2025, pending a Supreme Court decision—and the emergence of new social media platforms, this discussion is more relevant than ever. Linda shares actionable strategies for parents and caregivers to help children navigate the evolving digital landscape. From the onboarding process to setting boundaries, this episode provides practical insights for fostering healthy online habits while addressing the unique challenges of social media. Chapters: 00:00: Intro 01:36: Social Media’s Ubiquity in Kids’ Lives 06:00: Timing and Readiness for Social Media 09:00: The Importance of Onboarding 15:00: Setting Boundaries and Talking About Social Media 27:00: Partnering with Schools on Digital Wellbeing —----------------------------------------------- K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrolment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connects, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/

In this special episode, Kevin P. Chavous reflects on an extraordinary year for What I Want to Know. In 2024, the show explored some of the most vital conversations in education, from school safety and supporting students through tragedy, to the power of literacy and the future of school choice. They examined violence prevention, celebrated Hispanic heritage in classrooms, and uncovered how play and sports can help children heal and grow. Kevin also revisits the exploration of new opportunities in charter schools, offering a collection of highlights and powerful moments from the year. Listen to some of the most impactful conversations on topics that matter in education, including: —------------------------------------------------- Preparing your child for a successful future? K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their educational journey. Enrollment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. Key features include: State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction Innovative curriculum Extensive family support K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed Accredited program offering engaging classes for all learner levels, including advanced students and those with special needs More family time and engaging class connects Opportunity for your child to thrive academically Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podca... —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/

In this episode, we explore how online education is transforming lives for students facing housing insecurity. Host Kevin P. Chavous sits down with Alana Vickers, a remarkable recent graduate of the Digital Academy of Florida, who turned her challenging circumstances into a story of triumph. Among the 1.2 million students in U.S. schools experiencing housing instability, Alana's journey stands out as a testament to perseverance and the power of alternative education paths. Despite facing years without stable housing and having to restart her 10th-grade year, Alana not only completed high school but is now pursuing her dream of becoming a pediatrician. 00:00 Introduction 04:20 Finding a New Path Through Online Education 09:16 The Virtual School Experience 12:48 Graduation and Future Dreams 14:41 Final Thoughts and Advice —----------------------------------------------- Preparing your child for a future in healthcare? K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their healthcare career journey. Enrollment is open at K12! Join over 3 million students who have chosen a K12-powered education for tuition-free, personalized online public schooling from the safety of home. With state-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction, an innovative curriculum, and extensive family support, K12 empowers students in grades K-12 to succeed. Our accredited program offers engaging classes that support learners of all levels, including advanced students and those with special needs. Experience more family time, engaging class connects, and the opportunity for your child to thrive academically. Apply today to secure your spot and discover why families choose K12 for their online education needs. Explore K12's healthcare pathway options and other career-focused programs: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 —---------------------------------------- Join the conversation using #WIWTK on social media and be sure to leave a review! WIWTK Twitter – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast WIWTK Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/