The Classical Academies Partnering With Parents

Latest Episodes:

Episode 220: Writing Across the Curriculum May 05, 2026

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What if writing weren't a separate subject, but the foundation for all learning? Julie Walker from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) unpacks the power of "writing across the curriculum", an approach that moves beyond isolated grammar instruction and weaves writing into every subject. By using history, science, and literature as the foundation for their writing, students can bypass writer's block and engage in deeper critical thinking and greater content ownership.

Andrew Pudewa - However Imperfectly
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Episode 219: From Freshman Year to Acceptance: Planning the College Application Journey Apr 21, 2026

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Michael Craig, founder of Classic Test Prep, maps out a strategic plan for the application process. Walking year by year from freshman foundations to senior-year decisions, Michael shares how early financial planning, academic consistency, and thoughtful preparation can transform the college process for both students and families. Gain practical guidance on navigating standardized testing, including the ACT, SAT, and CLT, along with insights on how to front-load preparation to create a more manageable senior year. Throughout the conversation, Craig encourages families to focus on college “fit” and long-term purpose.

https://classictestprep.com/
College Application Timeline

Episode 218: Raising Re-Imagineers Apr 07, 2026

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Elena Czarnowski, founder of Kids Laboratories, is helping children become “re-imagineers”, creative problem-solvers equipped to improve the world around them.

She shares how identity-based parenting, rooted in values and effort, can shape behavior and build confidence. Through STEM, AI, and a “scientist hat” approach to everyday conversations, she offers practical ways to develop resilience, curiosity, and a strong sense of agency. Discover how to raise future-ready learners prepared to navigate and shape a rapidly changing world.

http://www.kidlaboratories.com/

Episode 217: Educating Exceptional Children Mar 24, 2026

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Students labeled as “exceptional” often navigate unique learning challenges, both visible and invisible. Whether a child is managing dyslexia, ADHD, twice-exceptionality, or advanced giftedness, their needs deserve thoughtful, individualized support. In this episode, educational consultant Jennifer Mauser from the Institute for Excellence in Writing dives into the essential topic of teaching students with exceptionalities. She highlights the transformative power of early identification and intervention. She offers practical insight into how parents and educators can better nurture each child’s distinct learning journey so every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

Episode 216: Super STEM Saturday Sponsor Spotlight – Bristol-Myers Squibb Mar 09, 2026

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Early STEM experiences impact the innovators of tomorrow. Mike Sherman of Bristol-Myers Squibb shares how the company champions community engagement through events like Super STEM Saturday, offering students across San Diego hands-on science activities and access to diverse role models. From lab demonstrations to interactive experiments, the conversation highlights how real-world STEM exposure can spark curiosity, build confidence, and show students from all backgrounds that a future in science is within reach.

Bristol Myers Squibb's mission is to discover, develop, and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases—pursuing bold science to define what's possible for the future of medicine and the patients we serve. For more information, visit BMS.com and follow on LinkedIn, X, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.

Episode 215: Super STEM Saturday Sponsor Spotlight – ASML Mar 06, 2026

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Join us for a Super STEM Saturday mini episode! ASML’s Program Manager of Society & Community Engagement, Misti Benson, joins the conversation to share how one of the world’s most influential semiconductor companies helps power modern life. Through initiatives like Super STEM Saturday, Misti and her team demystify advanced technology and open doors for students who may not yet see themselves in STEM fields. ASML is investing in the next generation and building a more diverse, inspired future workforce.
ASML internship program page, US internships for students & graduates | ASML careers, and a link to the open internships in San Diego, Find your job - Careers at ASML.

Episode 214: Executive Functioning Skills and Social-Emotional Learning for Students Feb 24, 2026

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Executive functioning and social-emotional learning are foundational skills that can be intentionally taught and strengthened, continuing to develop well into a person’s mid-20s. E3 Consulting’s Academic Specialists, Alethea Goodyear and Chloe Melvin, advocate for a supportive, proactive approach. They encourage parents and educators to explicitly model their own thinking processes, break complex tasks into manageable steps, and thoughtfully address the developmental needs that often underlie challenging behaviors.

https://www.ethreeconsulting.com/

Episode 213: The Science of Reading Feb 10, 2026

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The Science of Reading is a research-backed approach grounded in decades of neuroscience and psychology. English, Language, and Development Literacy Coordinator Jessica Hackenson explains that reading must be intentionally taught through clear, explicit instruction in foundational areas such as phonological awareness, systematic phonics, and background knowledge. Jessica shares practical ways parents can support literacy at home, including the power of reading aloud to build vocabulary and prosody, while avoiding approaches that feel overly repetitive or discouraging. She offers insight and confidence to support strong, lasting literacy development.

Episode 212: Before It’s Too Late: Spotting the Signs of Exploitation Jan 27, 2026

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Content Warning: This episode contains sensitive discussions regarding online child exploitation, grooming, and sextortion. While the goal of this conversation is to provide parents with protective tools and strategies, the subject matter may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.
Brian Smith is the co-founder of the California Alliance Against Trafficking and shares about the growing threat of online child exploitation. The conversation examines how predators use popular platforms like Roblox and Instagram to groom youth ages 9 - 19, often moving interactions to private messaging apps. Smith shares practical guidance for parents, including practicing “defensive technology use,” watching for behavioral red flags, and prioritizing open, non-judgmental conversations. The episode highlights the need to adapt “stranger danger” lessons for the digital world, helping children feel safe speaking up about online risks.
Resources: If you or someone you know has been affected by these issues, help is available.

California Alliance Against Trafficking
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children - 1(800)-THE-LOST

Episode 211: Every Path Matters: Serving Students with Special Needs Jan 21, 2026

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Pathfinders' Special Education program is dedicated to supporting students with significant special education needs academically, socially, and personally. Leah Moores, a Pathfinders' Special Education Teacher, explains how the program goes beyond traditional models by combining highly specialized, small-group instruction with meaningful inclusion in general education classrooms. With the help of committed aides and various services, students are empowered to learn alongside their peers while receiving the individualized support necessary for their growth.

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