Balancing a career and homeschooling might seem impossible, but teachers Julie Enzminger and Desirae Heath prove that it can be done successfully with the right strategies. They share how they manage professional commitments and offer practical tips for effective time management, establishing flexible routines, and building supportive accountability systems to stay on track. They’ve found innovative ways to balance their roles by leveraging virtual resources and strong community connections.

Parenting during the preteen and teenage years often involves navigating the natural individuation process as children strive for independence. In this episode, leadership coach and author Keith Merron, founder of Leadership Pathways, explores the concept of sovereignty in personal development and parenting. The discussion highlights the importance of cultivating resilience, embracing diversity, and encouraging growth through risk and failure, which are essential for preparing children for adulthood. Keith also shares insights on how schools and parents can work together to create a nurturing environment that inspires a love of learning, builds character, and supports a holistic approach to independence.

Amy Saloner is a licensed clinical social worker and functional nutritional therapy practitioner who shares the complexities of teen mental health. She helps differentiate between normal emotional experiences and signs of mental health challenges while exploring the physiological and psychological impacts of anxiety and depression. Amy also discusses the influence of social media on teens’ mental well-being. She offers valuable insights into supporting teens through the formative years by drawing on a resilience framework centered on four key pillars: body, mind, relationships, and purpose.

Workshop: 

Keeping The Peace: Creating meaningful agreements with your Teen/Tween:

Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 1-3 pm

https://amy-saloner-3302.mykajabi.com/keeping-the-peace

www.amysaloner.com

Instagram: @resilientfamily_resilientteen

Facebook: @amysalonerprofessional

In his new book Job Moves: Nine Steps for Making Progress in Your Career, Michael Horn explores career paths' evolving, non-linear nature and the growing importance of personal agency when making career choices. He highlights the rise of career technical education and apprenticeships, emphasizing how students can begin exploring their interests early to better align with future opportunities. Horn encourages parents and educators to create environments where students can reflect on their values, develop practical skills, and gain real-world experience, empowering them to navigate the dynamic job market confidently.

https://www.jobmoves.com/

Classical Academy Middle School Principal Jennifer Morrow shares her journey from homeschool parent to school leader, highlighting the school's innovative three-day program for seventh and eighth graders. Balancing academic, social, and emotional growth, Classical Academy Middle School incorporates unique elements like "Flex" and "Win Time" to help students develop organizational and time management skills. Principal Morrow also discusses the diverse range of electives and community service projects that build independence and teach self-management, equipping students with lifelong skills.

Coastal Academy High School Principal Samantha Martinez discusses the impressive growth and innovative programs at Coastal Academy High School. Principal Martinez reflects on her educational journey and highlights the school’s focus on personalized learning, student empowerment, and flexible scheduling to meet individual needs. With new facilities on the horizon and a solid commitment to Career and Technical Education pathways, Coastal Academy is dedicated to preparing students for college and careers while offering a supportive learning community. This is episode four in a special six-part series on school leadership.

Classical Academy High School (CAHS) Principal Dana Moen shares his personal journey and the innovative ways CAHS is shaping students for life beyond high school. With a focus on the four "F's"—fun, fitness, friendships, and future—Dana discusses how these pillars, extracurricular engagement and reducing cell phone distractions, contribute to student well-being and academic achievement. Dana explains how CAHS' supportive culture builds genuine connections, develops character, and equips students for leadership, community involvement, and personal growth.

Kirstin Lasto, Principal of Classical Academy Vista, shares her journey from parent to school leader. She discusses the school's remarkable growth, commitment to building a strong community, and the initiatives shaping student character and leadership. From the transformative Leader in Me program to expanding sports opportunities, Kirstin highlights Classical Academy Vista's supportive, engaging environment. With a forward-thinking approach to preparing students for the future, she emphasizes the importance of parent collaboration in creating an enriching educational experience.

*This is episode #3 in a six-part series featuring school principals.

Coastal Academy Principal Marcy Cashin has been a teacher and principal for the past 21 years. She shares her passion for community and engaging students, parents, and staff. She explains how character development and creating a sense of belonging through events and clubs provide a safe environment for students to learn and grow. This year’s theme, “strong foundation, bright future,” reflects Coastal Academy’s commitment to high-quality education and continuous improvement. Marcy expresses gratitude and the importance of collaborating with parents for student success.

Kenna Molina has dedicated 26 years to the Classical Academies, rising from a part-time teacher to principal. Kenna emphasizes the importance of nurturing well-rounded individuals with character alongside academic skills, highlighted by the school's theme, "Strong Foundation, Bright Future." As she prepares for retirement, she expresses confidence in maintaining school culture and encourages parents to focus on core motivations for homeschooling. Kenna's legacy illustrates the profound impact of parent partnership and collaboration, inspiring us to support our children's growth together.