Currey Ingram Conversations

What happens when curiosity meets purpose? In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher take a deeper dive with Currey Ingram Academy's lead LibTech Integrationist, Melissa Powers, about the 2026-27 all-school theme of "Igniting IDEAs" and how that connects to the meaningful work happening inside the Currey Family IDEA Center. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of project-based learning in a space that moves beyond the traditional classroom. Currey Ingram's IDEA Center provides the "kindling" for not just igniting ideas but for transformational learning.

From zero organized gaming experience to a state championship and a college scholarship! Co-hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher trace the history of our school's Esports program alongside Athletic Director Reid McFadden and graduating senior Finn Kelly. Finn opens up about his rapid interest in Esports, getting recruited by Baylor University, and capping off his senior year with a spectacular state title and collegiate scholarship. Don't miss this inspiring story of talent, teamwork, and the power of Esports!

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Dr. Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher step aside to give the floor to the people who know Currey Ingram Academy best: the students. Two seniors share their personal journey of why they chose our school, how their teacher mentorship has been valuable, and what has helped them flourish as students. Their stories are a powerful testament to the way Currey Ingram Academy supports students with learning differences, specifically helping them excel academically, pursue passions, and prepare for their next chapter. Listen to how they are thriving and ready to fly beyond the walls of the Currey Ingram classroom!

Are screens helping or hurting our kids, especially those with learning differences? In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher invite Ginann Franklin and Melissa Powers to explore the complex relationship between screen time, neurodivergence, and the developing brain. Grounded in current research, they unpack how digital media impacts attention, emotional regulation, and learning.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with Tyler F. LeMarinel, partner at Allard Ward Architects, to explore the vision behind the school's Master Plan and how thoughtful design shapes the student experience. From creating flexible, student-centered spaces to supporting regulation, well-being, and long-term growth, they highlight the powerful connection between environment and learning.

In this Currey Ingram Conversation, Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher dive into structured literacy, with a focus on the fundamentals and why it's essential for learning to read. Joined by Dr. Regan Anderson, Currey Ingram Academy's Director of Program Outreach, and Lower School teacher, Mary Jackson, the conversation blends research and classroom insight to explain how this evidence-based approach supports all learners, especially students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with two members of the Currey Ingram faculty to explore the power of continued education and the impact of ongoing professional growth. Together, they discuss why investing in lifelong learning is essential for educators, especially those serving students with learning differences, and how high-quality professional development directly enhances classroom practice, student outcomes, and school culture.

From conference takeaways to personal growth journeys, this conversation highlights the commitment, curiosity, and expertise that drive great teaching at Currey Ingram Academy.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with a Currey Ingram Academy board member, Curt Thorne, to explore what it means to "Rise & Thrive" from a governance perspective. The conversation unpacks how the strategic plan serves as a compass for decision-making, why staying in your lane is essential for effective board leadership, and how trust, culture, and shared purpose help the entire community move forward, ensuring Currey Ingram not only rises but thrives.

In this special episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher celebrate 20 years of the Rock Band program at Currey Ingram Academy — a signature experience that blends musical growth with personal transformation. Sean Kelly, who founded the program, sits down with two current student musicians and a proud alum to reflect on the impact of Rock Band over the years. From the early days of rehearsal and live performance, this conversation highlights how the program has shaped confidence, connection, and creativity. Rooted in the heart of Music City, Currey Ingram's approach to music is more than just unique — it's a true Nashville experience.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Lower School Division Head Dr. Danielle Barton and Lower School Assistant Division Head Catherine Thomson explore how skill deficits influence students' unexpected behaviors. They discuss Currey Ingram Academy's diagnostic approach to addressing behavior by seeking underlying causes, implementing skill-building approaches, and fostering overall growth, which empowers students with learning differences to thrive.