Our latest Power to the Parent Podcast features the truly inspiring Regis Penn, an Eagle Scout and Strake Jesuit powerhouse with a 4.1 GPA who's bound for the United States Naval Academy!

Hear directly from Regis about his strategic approach to college applications, how he balanced rigorous academics with leadership roles (like Houston Mayor's Youth Council!), and staying motivated during stressful times. Host Wendy Richard Tilford also shares insider secrets from "Power to the Parent" to guide your child's educational journey.

Don't miss this empowering conversation! Listen to "From High School to the Navy: A Teen’s Journey Through the College Admissions Process" today! 

 #CollegePrep #USNA #TeenSuccess #LeadershipDevelopment #PodcastForParents #EducationalInsights #AdmissionsProcess #StrakeJesuit #RegisPenn #WendyRichardTilford #ListenNow

In the next episode, Wendy explores strategies for parents to support their children with learning differences, such as ADHD or dyslexia. The episode will guide parents in effectively advocating for their child's educational needs.

Key Topics:

1. Understanding Learning Differences: Parents will learn the importance of understanding their child's needs, challenges, and practical strategies to support them.
2. Advocating for Your Child: Wendy outlines actionable steps for parents to advocate for their children, including:
   • Educating themselves on learning differences.
   • Communicating with educators.
   • Knowing their child’s rights and educational protections.
   • Creating a supportive home environment.
3. Key Components for Success: Wendy highlights essential elements to help children thrive:
   • Individualized Education Plans (IEP) or 504 Plans.
   • Regular assessments and feedback from parents and educators.
   • Access to tutoring and therapy resources.
4. Choosing the Right School: Wendy emphasizes the importance of selecting a school that aligns with the child’s learning style:
   • Researching and visiting schools.
   • Asking questions about the school's experience with learning differences.
   • Evaluating inclusivity, differentiation, and the social environment.

By focusing on these areas, parents will be better equipped to navigate the educational system and provide their children with the support they need to succeed.

In this episode, we dive into the basics of ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funding and its impact on education in Texas. Our discussion answers critical questions such as:

1. What ESSER funding is, and how it supports schools and students across the state?
2. How has Texas allocated ESSER funds, and which areas of education are benefiting?
3. The role of ESSER funding in addressing pandemic-related learning loss.
4. Important timelines parents need to know, including deadlines for ESSER I, II, and III funds:
   • ESSER I (CARES Act): Use by September 30, 2022.
   • ESSER II (CRRSA Act): Use by September 30, 2023.
   • ESSER III (American Rescue Plan): Use by September 30, 2024.

With no additional ESSER funding rounds planned, schools and districts are maximizing current resources before they expire. Tune in to understand how this critical funding impacts your child’s education and what parents need to be aware of moving forward.