In this episode, Josh welcomes Dr. Janice Myck-Wane for a discussion of the complexities of special education in California, focusing on the challenges faced by teachers, students, and families. They explore the role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the impact of chronic underfunding, and the teacher shortages in the field. The conversation also delves into the credentialing process for educators and the potential innovations that could shape the future of special education, including the use of AI.

In this episode of the Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman discusses the complexities of English language learning in California with Francesca Sanchez, a seasoned expert in bilingual education. They explore the misconceptions surrounding English learners, the importance of multilingualism, and the need for effective programs that embrace California's diverse linguistic landscape. The conversation also touches on the political dimensions of language education, the misclassification of English learners, and the challenges of teacher recruitment and retention. Ultimately, they advocate for a more inclusive and enriched approach to language education that recognizes the value of all languages and cultures.

In this episode, host Josh Newman speaks with Superintendent Erin O'Neill of the MetroED School District in San Jose about the intersection of California's economy and Career Technical Education (CTE). They discuss the challenges of connecting students to the workforce; the importance of innovative programs and dual enrollment opportunities; the need for better funding and support for CTE initiatives; the importance of integrating career readiness with college preparation; and the future directions for CTE in California.

In this episode, host Josh Newman speaks with Superintendent Erin O'Neill of the MetroED School District in San Jose about the intersection of California's economy and Career Technical Education (CTE). They discuss the challenges of connecting students to the workforce; the importance of innovative programs and dual enrollment opportunities; the need for better funding and support for CTE initiatives; the importance of integrating career readiness with college preparation; and the future directions for CTE in California.

In this episode of The Edumyseat Podcast, Josh Newman and Roman Stearns, the founder and executive director of an organization called “Scaling Student Success” discuss the evolving landscape of education, focusing on student assessment, agency, and the challenges around defining a more coherent vision and framework for California's educational governance. They explore innovative practices from other states, the challenges of legislative change, and the importance of civic education in preparing students for the future.

In this episode, Josh sits down with Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, to discuss the pressing crisis confronting boys and young men in California. They explore the critical role of mentorship in addressing academic, social, and emotional challenges faced by boys today, the need for male mentors, and the impact of mentorship on youth development. The conversation also touches on the challenges of engaging volunteers, the influence of technology on youth isolation, and the necessity for public-private partnerships to support mentorship programs like Big Brothers/Big Sisters that can make such a huge difference in the lives of young people.

In this episode of the Edge of My Seat podcast, host Josh Newman speaks with Tess Ulrey and Jonah Stewart from the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE) about the complexities of homeschooling. They discuss the motivations behind homeschooling, the public perception versus reality, the lack of state oversight, and the implications for child welfare. Both guests share their personal experiences as homeschool alumni and emphasize the need for policy changes to ensure the safety and educational quality for homeschooled children. The conversation highlights the growing trend of homeschooling, especially post-pandemic, and the importance of elevating alumni voices in the ongoing discourse.

In this episode, Miguel Villarreal, co-executive director of the National Farm to School Network, explains the importance of improving school nutrition and the challenges faced in advocating for better food systems. Miguel shares his personal journey from a farm worker to a nutrition advocate, emphasizing the need for community engagement and collaboration between educators and food service programs; emphasizes the impact of funding cuts on school nutrition initiatives; and encourages listeners to get involved in promoting healthier food options for children.

In this episode of the Edumyseat podcast, Josh interviews Erin Volk, Senior Vice President of Workforce and Community Development for the Association of General Contractors of California. They discuss the pressing workforce shortage in the construction industry, the need for better alignment between education and workforce demands, and the importance of engaging Gen Z in skilled trades. Erin also emphasizes the need to break gender stereotypes, improve career technical education (CTE) pathways, and promote entrepreneurship within the construction sector.

In this episode, Josh and Tony Brown discuss the vital role of Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) in providing expanded learning opportunities for youth in underserved communities. They explore the importance of creating safe spaces for children, the challenges of funding and resource allocation, and the need for comprehensive support systems that extend beyond traditional school hours. Tony shares insights from his long tenure at HOLA, emphasizing the impact of community engagement and the necessity of data-driven approaches to measure success. The discussion highlights the systemic challenges faced by educational institutions and the potential for innovative solutions to enhance the educational landscape for all children.