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Navigating the Middle School Years with Pam Jordan

In this episode of the PHPS podcast, we sit down with Pam Jordan, former Head of Middle School at an independent school, to explore the remarkable growth happening during adolescence. Together, we discuss what’s changing in the adolescent brain, the social and emotional needs that define the middle school years, and how strong relationships and supportive school environments help students thrive.

🧠 What We Discuss

• Key changes in the adolescent brain during middle school
• Why belonging and identity matter so much at this stage
• Why middle school can feel especially complex for students with learning differences
• The powerful role of trusted adult relationships
• How small, relational school environments support confidence and growth
• What families often misunderstand about adolescence

📚 Resources & Books Mentioned

• Lisa Damour – A leading voice on adolescent development and parenting. Pam recommended her insights, including the Ask Lisa podcast series for practical, research‑based guidance for families.
• The Anxious Generation
  An examination of rising youth anxiety and the cultural shifts shaping adolescent mental health.
• The Hobbit
  A classic coming‑of‑age adventure that reflects the courage and growth of stepping into new stages of life.
• Klara and the Sun
  A novel about an Artificial Friend observing the world and exploring connection, humanity, and what it truly means to love.

Pam also referenced the importance of seeing the “forest from the trees” — remembering to step back and view adolescence as a larger developmental journey, not just a series of daily moments.

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In this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett take a closer look at the PHPS admissions journey—what it means to apply into our community and, when the time is right, apply out to the next best-fit school for a child.

The conversation features Laura Holthouser, PHPS Director of Admissions, along with parent voices Kendall Murphey and Judge Platt, who share honest reflections on navigating admissions, trusting the process, and making decisions grounded in what’s best for students.

Together, they offer a thoughtful look at how PHPS partners with families, supports students who learn differently, and approaches admissions with care, clarity, and integrity—every step of the way.

A reassuring, insightful listen for families beginning—or already walking—the admissions journey.

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In this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett celebrate the joy of reading and how PHPS nurtures confident, curious readers—with students who learn differently. Through student voices, favorite book picks, and a peek inside the PHPS library, they explore how choice, access, and connection help every child see themselves as a reader.

The conversation also features Katherine Bush, a 3rd-grade teacher and parent of a 1st- and 4th-grade student with learning differences, who shares thoughtful insights on supporting readers both at school and at home.

A joyful, encouraging listen for families looking to inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Books Students Loved:
Matilda; Percy Jackson and the Olympians; Diary of a Wimpy Kid; Magic Tree House; Captain Underpants; Wings of Fire; Notebook of Doom

Becky & Lauren’s Picks:
Owly • The One and Only Ivan • The Tale of Despereaux • Mercy Watson • I Survived • Elephant & Piggie • Henry & Heidi Heckelbeck

Resources Mentioned:

• The Read-Aloud Revival – Encourages reading aloud at every age, focusing on connection and joy
  
  
  
• ALA Booklist – Trusted reviews that guide high-quality book selection
  
  
  
• Texas 2×2 & Bluebonnet – Programs that introduce students to exceptional, student-loved titles
  
  
  
• Learning Ally, Epic!, Audible – Multiple ways for students and families to access stories through listening and reading

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In this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett explore gratitude through the voices that shape our community every day. You’ll hear reflections from PHPS students and faculty—capturing the joy, humor, and heart of campus life—followed by a thoughtful conversation with the Street family on what PHPS has meant to them and why they chose to support the Foundation for Our Future Success campaign.

A warm, meaningful listen that celebrates where we are—and the future we’re building together.

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After our parent education morning, Lauren and Becky sat down with Dr. Ben Kirby—an educator and administrator with more than 18 years of experience—to talk about raising kids in a digital world. In this short, practical conversation, Dr. Kirby shares real-world strategies for healthier tech habits, calmer after-school routines, and supporting developing adolescent brains with consistency and confidence.

A quick, insightful listen for any family navigating technology today.

Dr. Kirby's Reading List: 

Educational Read: 10 to 25: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation—And Making Your Own Life Easier by David Yeager
A practical, insightful guide for parents and educators on understanding today’s kids and teens, building stronger connections, and leading with clarity and confidence.

Children's Literature: Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls – A moving classic about determination, friendship, and the deep bond between a boy and his dogs. A powerful, emotional read for older kids, teens, and adults alike.

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In our debut episode of The PHPS Difference, Dr. Nicole Bell, PHPS Head of School, joins us to share the PHPS mission, vision, and what makes this community so special.

Dr. Bell's Reading List: 

Educational Read: Building Learning Power by Guy Claxton — Practical strategies for strengthening students’ learning habits and independence.

Pleasure Read: The Wager (Historical Fiction) by David Grann — A gripping, fast-paced survival tale based on a true maritime disaster.

Children’s Literature: The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton — A classic coming-of-age story about identity, belonging, and empathy.