THRIVEcast - Focused on Flint Kids Thriving

In this episode, we explore the impact of THRIVE Afterschool programming and how it supports students beyond the school day. Staff discuss the academic support, enrichment, relationships, and sense of community that help students grow while providing valuable support for families.

In this episode of THRIVEcast, we talk with Flint native Jonathan Blanchard, founder of STEMletics, about using sports and technology to make STEM education engaging for students. From basketball statistics to the science behind athletic performance, the conversation explores how STEMletics is helping Flint kids develop skills in math, science, and technology through the Thrive After School program.

In this episode of THRIVEcast, parents from the Flint Parent Collaborative discuss the challenges and rewards of advocating for students and families. From navigating special education services to participating in school boards, listening sessions, and legislative forums, the conversation explores how parents can work collectively to address systemic issues and improve educational experiences for all children. Tune in to hear how collaboration, persistence, and shared purpose are helping families create positive change in Flint schools.

Attendance is often viewed as a concern for older students, but the habits that support lifelong success begin much earlier. In this episode of THRIVEcast, education leaders explore the connection between early childhood attendance, school readiness, and long-term academic outcomes. From brain development and family engagement to community supports and post-pandemic challenges, this conversation highlights why every day counts for our youngest learners.

Kindergarten readiness is often reduced to learning letters and numbers, but true readiness begins long before a child ever enters a classroom. In this episode of THRIVEcast, education and community leaders discuss the critical role early childhood plays in shaping lifelong outcomes for children and families. From brain development and social-emotional learning to childcare access, family support, and public investment, this conversation explores how communities can create the conditions for every child to succeed.

Chronic absenteeism is often seen as a student problem - but what if it’s really a systems problem? In this episode of THRIVEcast, we unpack the complex realities facing students involved in the juvenile justice system. From undiagnosed learning challenges to trauma, family responsibilities, and the search for belonging, many young people are navigating far more than school. This conversation explores why students disengage, what true support looks like, and how mentorship, empathy, and second chances can help them reclaim their path forward.

This episode of Thrive Cast continues an important conversation on chronic school absenteeism, exploring the complex and often overlooked reasons students struggle to attend school consistently. From transportation challenges and unstable housing to mental health concerns and lack of motivation, the discussion highlights the real barriers many young people face. Drawing on insights from student intake experiences, the episode also sheds light on resources available to support families and help students stay engaged in their education. It’s a thoughtful look at a widespread issue—and the steps communities can take to make a difference.

In this episode of THRIVEcast, we discuss the growing issue of chronic school absenteeism and the many barriers that can prevent students from attending school consistently. Through perspectives from education leaders, youth advocates, mentors, and a student, the conversation explores challenges such as transportation, out-of-district enrollment, online learning, motivation, and access to support. Centered on the experiences of Flint students while reflecting a broader national concern, this episode highlights why attendance matters and what it takes to help young people stay engaged and succeed.

In this episode of THRIVEcast, host Dawn Hibbard talks with Dr. Nina Hasty about the critical importance of early grade reading skills and how they set the stage for future academic success. They explore how children learn to decode, comprehend, and connect words in meaningful ways, and highlight the Flint Center’s Networked Improvement Communities initiative aimed at improving third-grade reading outcomes. Tune in to learn how foundational literacy shapes a child’s educational journey and the strategies helping Flint kids thrive.