Falling for Learning Podcast

Teacher Appreciate Done Right

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/fan_mail/new] Celebrating Teachers and Supporting Student Success: A Personal Reflection In this episode, TD Flenaugh shares heartfelt stories and lessons about the importance of teachers in shaping lives, from elementary school to college. It’s a call to recognize ongoing teacher appreciation, foster collaboration, and empower parents and students alike to create environments for success.Key Topics:   * The lasting impact of inspiring teachers like Ms. Byler, Ms. Corr, Ms. Nelson,  and Mr. Beu.   * Practical strategies for students and parents to cultivate meaningful relationships with teachers.   * Lessons in writing, resilience, and navigating educational pathways from elementary to college.   * The importance of affirming potential, self-care, and growth mindset in education.   * Addressing current challenges faced by teachers and proposing ways to support their vital role.   * The significance of community collaboration in fostering student achievement.   * Reflection on personal experiences that highlight the power of intentionality, kindness, and advocacy in education.   * Encouragement to honor teachers beyond one week and to appreciate their contributions year-round.  Resources & Links:   * The Rewrite Method [https://amazon.com/s?k=The+Rewrite+Method]   * Little Mobile Home on the Tundra [https://amazon.com/s?k=Little+Mobile+Home+on+the+Tundra]   Connect with TD Flenaugh: * Instagram [https://instagram.com/td_flenaugh]   Let's honor our teachers every day and support their critical role in shaping our futures. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/support] We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.instagram.com/falling4learning/] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.facebook.com/falling4learning/] https://linktr.ee/falling4learning [https://linktr.ee/falling4learning]

Teachers Who Mattered Most & What I Learned

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/fan_mail/new] Join us for a special Teacher Appreciation Week episode where I share personal stories about the teachers who shaped our futures. This teacher story dives into memorable classroom stories, offering insights into effective education. We also provide tips on how to identify a good teacher and collaborate effectively for student success, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in supporting strong teachers to guide children.  Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/support] We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.instagram.com/falling4learning/] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.facebook.com/falling4learning/] https://linktr.ee/falling4learning [https://linktr.ee/falling4learning]

Why Traditional Schools Fail Some Kids and How Micro Schools Fill the Gap

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/fan_mail/new] What if there was a way to personalized learning that actually works? Benita Gordon, an education strategist and micro school pioneer, reveals how innovative schooling models can transform your child's success and happiness. This episode dives into the world of micro schools—what they are, how they differ from traditional and homeschool settings, and why they might be the best fit for your child. Benita shares her journey from public school teacher to founder of a micro school, offering concrete examples of how personalized, project-based, and trauma-informed education creates engaged, motivated students. You'll discover how micro schools leverage the principles of small class sizes, flexible schedules, and tailored curricula to meet diverse learning needs. Perfect for curious parents, educators exploring new models, or community leaders advocating for change, this episode unlocks the potential of micro schools to revolutionize learning. Join us and learn how you can be part of the movement creating more inclusive, customized, and effective education options—because every child deserves a space to thrive. In a broader context, this episode emphasizes the critical need for educational choice in our current landscape. Whether your child is disengaged, needs a flexible schedule, or has specific learning challenges, micro schools can offer a viable, scalable solution. With actionable tips for parents and advocates, Benita empowers listeners to seek alternatives that truly serve the child’s best interests—not just conformity or standardized metrics. Benita Gordon is an innovative education strategist, founder of Global Education Concierge, and a leader in the micro school movement. Her decades of experience in public education and community-driven school models fuel her mission to expand access to personalized learning. If you're ready to rethink education and discover the future of schooling tailored for every child, this episode is essential listening. Empower yourself with practical insights and inspiration to make a difference today. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/support] We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.instagram.com/falling4learning/] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.facebook.com/falling4learning/] https://linktr.ee/falling4learning [https://linktr.ee/falling4learning]

Funding Schools to Optimize Learning

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/fan_mail/new] This episode was recorded during the ongoing negotiations between LAUSD and UTLA, highlighting how teacher salaries, working conditions, and district funding directly affect classroom quality and student success.  UPDATE - Strike was averted! Teachers ratified the agreement as of April 24, 2026! Featuring insights from union leader James Riley, we explore key challenges faced by educators and what parents need to know. Key topics: * The upcoming LAUSD teacher strike: causes and implications * Teacher salary issues and high turnover rates within 5 years * The importance of parental support and informed advocacy * The impact of low wages on teacher burnout and classroom quality * Excessive testing and its effect on instruction and student engagement * District spending priorities: private contracts vs. student resources * Underfunding of essential school support staff like counselors and custodians * Challenges in special education and class size ratios * The role of outside vendors and privatization of school services * How district funding choices influence educational equity and student outcomes Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/support] We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.instagram.com/falling4learning/] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.facebook.com/falling4learning/] https://linktr.ee/falling4learning [https://linktr.ee/falling4learning]

The Movement Secret Teachers Are Missing | ep. 138

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/fan_mail/new] Making Movement and Purpose Central in Education and Parenting In this episode, Lauren Moseley and TD Flenaugh delve into how incorporating movement, understanding identity, purpose, and providing direction can transform how we support children’s success. Emphasizing intentionality, community, and practical activities, they highlight strategies to nurture well-rounded, confident learners and leaders. Resources: Coach Cory Martin YouTube Channel GoNoodle Movement Activities Phonics Man on YouTube (Sample Movement Phonics) Rufo the Kangaroo Instagram The Little Mobile Home on the Tundra by TD Flenaugh The Civil Rights Movement Children's Books Key Topics: * The importance of movement in learning and how it enhances engagement and cognition * The role of storytelling, family traditions, and community in shaping identity * Supporting kids in discovering their purpose through diverse experiences and self-awareness * Balancing technology use with physical activity to promote overall well-being and prevent excessive screen time * How educators and parents can collaborate to build a village of support and positive guidance * Critical reflection on the limitations of tech's role and the importance of hands-on, real-world experiences Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2199415/support] We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.instagram.com/falling4learning/] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ [https://www.facebook.com/falling4learning/] https://linktr.ee/falling4learning [https://linktr.ee/falling4learning]