Middle school marks a pivotal time as students transition from one primary teacher to several, face increasing academic expectations, and start seeking greater independence. It’s also a season when parents shift from manager to coach, learning to balance autonomy with meaningful guidance. Dawn Sullivan, a Classical Academy middle school teacher, shares insights on how families can nurture executive functioning skills during this critical period. She offers practical approaches such as modeling organization, establishing routines, weekly schedule reviews, and encouraging students to communicate directly with teachers. As students transition to high school, Dawn outlines how parents can gradually assume a mentor role, equipping teens to handle increasingly complex responsibilities with confidence. For slides to this presentation, visit here.

Coastal Academy teachers Marie Orr and Nicole Hernandez explore practical strategies for motivating children in a homeschool setting. They discuss how routines, designated learning spaces, and consistent cues can help students transition smoothly into a learning mindset. They also share how to find the balance between structure and flexibility by offering choice, being prepared, and adapting teaching to interests and energy levels, creating a positive and practical homeschooling experience.

The Classical Academies’ Transition Partnership Program (TPP) helps students with special needs transition from high school to adulthood by supporting them as they explore employment, continuing education, and independent living. TPP Specialist Melissa Hilbig and Instructor Deb Kissner share how students can identify their strengths, connect with opportunities, and gain the skills, strategies, and resources needed for success. The program focuses on normalizing disabilities to promote independence, empowerment, and inclusion. While designed for students with IEPs or 504 plans, TPP builds valuable skills such as self-advocacy, collaboration, and confidence that benefit all learners.

Math educator and AI pioneer, Professor Ved, explores how artificial intelligence can support early learning without replacing the human touch. He unpacks the power of math education in building confidence and problem-solving skills, and introduces the concept of a “super growth engine” fueled by practice, progress, and curiosity. Professor Ved shares how AI can personalize learning by identifying strengths and gaps, but emphasizes that parents must remain actively involved in the process.

Dr. Thomas Armstrong, Executive Director of the American Institute for Learning and Human Development, discusses the importance of supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Armstrong shares how viewing neurodiversity as a strength, much like biodiversity or cultural diversity, can help parents reframe challenges, nurture their child's passions, and partner with teachers to highlight their child’s unique gifts. He also offers practical strategies such as strength-based learning, assistive technologies, developing a growth mindset, and connecting children with positive role models to create environments where students can thrive.

The power of Neurodiversity: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Neurodiversity-Unleashing-Advantages-Differently/dp/0738215244

Nuerodiversity in the Classroom: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Classroom-Strength-Based-Strategies-Students/dp/1416614834

Andrew Pudewa, founder of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, shares how families can nurture attentiveness and contemplation in children despite today’s digital distractions. He offers practical insights on how activities such as reading physical books, practicing cursive, spending time outdoors, reading aloud, and memorization strengthen focus, imagination, and critical thinking in ways screens cannot. Pudewa also highlights the role of rich vocabulary in deepening thought, the value of calm environments for reflection, and how poetry and music can awaken an appreciation for beauty.

Julia Nicholson, former CEO and author, shares her journey of overcoming adversity and how the power of perspective builds resilience. She reminds us that growth comes from taking the next step, not striving for perfection, and highlights the importance of focusing on what we have rather than what is missing. Julia explores the impact of self-talk, the value of celebrating small wins, and how shifting our perspective toward the positive reduces stress and builds confidence. Her insights encourage parents to choose progress over comparison and to model resilience in everyday life.

Effective listening isn’t an innate talent—it’s a skill that takes focus, training, and a shared language. Christine Miles, founder of The Listening Path, reveals how intentional listening can transform relationships at home, in the workplace, and in the classroom. Drawing from her journey, she shares practical tools for asking open-ended questions. She introduces her three-step process—getting the story, confirming understanding, and uncovering deeper meaning—to foster empathy and strengthen connections.

Dr. Michele Borba is an author, international speaker, and educational psychologist who teaches parents and educators to nurture resilience and build character in children. She emphasizes that resilience isn’t innate; it’s a skill that can and should be taught before adversity strikes. Dr. Borba offers practical strategies for identifying and modeling core family values, focusing on children’s strengths, and integrating character development into everyday learning. Her insights provide a roadmap for raising confident, compassionate, and capable young people.

Dr. Michele Borba is this year's JumpStart Parent Education Conference Keynote Speaker. Registration for the conference begins on August 1st. Learn more here. 

How much is too much? With children averaging nearly three hours of screen time daily, and teens even more, language development and social skills can be impacted. Lead Speech-Language Pathologist Katherine Cameron shares key developmental milestones, practical strategies, and tips for creating screen-free, conversation-rich environments that support growth.