Currey Ingram Conversations

Trying to control screen time for children in the age of COVID-19 has become a nightmare for many parents. This episode is a discussion with a couple of our resident technology experts that explores current research, as well as practical tips on how to develop healthy digital habits for the entire family. Additionally, Dr. Mitchell and Mr. Vinson are joined by a new co-host, Ms. Courtney Gallaher, Director of Community Outreach.

In this first episode of the new year, Dr. Mitchell and Mr. V talk about resolutions for the school, as well as hear from others in the CIA community with regards to what they resolve to do in 2021. Dr. Mitchell strategically addresses school initiatives and forecasts even better days ahead for the Mustangs as we continually adhere to our mission - empowering students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential.

Every person's birth, family of origin and early experiences shape the person they grow into. Understanding the unique neurochemical, psychological and holistic developmental considerations that frequently accompany adoption is crucial for those who love, teach and care for adopted students. Miranda Pool, M.Ed., NCC, Frist Chair of Social-Emotional Learning at Currey Ingram Academy, provides a glimpse into her current work with this population, as well as her continually-evolving expertise.

Head of School Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Director of Residential Life Eric Vinson stop to reflect on the first half of the school year. Though 2020 brought unexpected challenges, the hosts delightfully point out 20 things that are beyond noteworthy from the past semester. Shout-outs, stories, secrets... This episode is packed full of goodness, not to mention a visit from special guest John Ingram, businessman, philanthropist, and owner of Nashville SC.

Anxiety is one of the primary challenges facing students today. How does one know the root of anxious behavior? Our panel of experts provide insight and delineate whether it is psychologically-based anxiety, a result of sensory processing challenges, or poor language skills. Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Eric Vinson are joined by a psychologist, occupational therapist, and speech-language pathologist who elaborate on each area of concern and facilitate further discussion on this important topic.

Back by popular demand, Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Eric Vinson interview current faculty and staff for insight into the more practical elements of a dyslexic profile. What are the early warning signs? Worthwhile interventions? Connections to handwriting? Our panel for this episode includes Courtney Gallaher (Occupational Therapist and Director of the Annette Eskind Institute of Learning), Mary Jackson (Lower School teacher), and Allison Johnson (Middle School teacher).

Dr. Jeff Mitchell sits down with the true stars of any school show - the students. A student representative from each division talks about his/her Currey Ingram journey. Also, Dr. Mitchell discusses the state of the school thus far, specifically how it continues to thrive during a season seemingly dominated by COVID-19.

While we all face traumas, adversity, and stresses in our lives, 2020 has placed unique strains on our ability to cope. In this session, we discuss resiliency and some factors that affect individual differences in how students adapt to life-changing situations. Our guests include: Dr. Allison Bender, Ph.D., HSP; Jennifer Seay, M.A.; and Dr. Emily Kirk, Ph.D., HSP.

Approximately 20 percent of the Currey Ingram student body (about 60 students in 2020-21) has a primary diagnosis of dyslexia, so understanding the latest research is incredibly important. Following a presentation he gave within the Annette Eskind Institute of Learning, Dr. Mitchell briefly unpacks recent notable findings, then engages in conversation regarding reading challenges with Mr. Vinson and two current students.

Veteran Currey Ingram educator, Sean Kelly, joins hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Eric Vinson to discuss the multifaceted arts program at the school. Kelly gives insight into how the longstanding broadcasting class, "CIA News," came to be, as well as updates regarding the new Creative Technology and ESports signature program. No green screen necessary in recording this episode -- merely a little old fashioned conversation.