The Education Breakdown

62. Is a Magnet School Right for Your Child? A Conversation with Wake County's Magnet Expert (feat. Tamani Powell)

If you've ever wondered what magnet schools actually are, whether your child "qualifies," or how the application process even works — this episode is for you. We sat down with Tamani Powell, Director in the Office of Magnet Programs at Wake County Public Schools, who has been living and breathing magnet education since 1998. She is, in every sense of the word, the expert. Quick note: The second half of this episode gets into the specifics of applying to magnet schools in Wake County, NC (think Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Wake Forest, and surrounding areas). If you're a Wake County parent — or thinking of moving there — that part is pure gold. But if you're outside of Wake County, don't tune out. The first half covers the big-picture "what and why" of magnet schools that applies no matter where you live. Here's a taste of what we cover: * The origin story — Why magnet schools were created in the first place, and how that mission still shapes how they operate today * The many flavors of magnet programs — From Gifted & Talented and language immersion to STEM, leadership, entrepreneurial design, and early colleges, Tamani walks us through what's actually out there * The "does my kid have to be gifted?" question — Spoiler: no. Tamani explains who these schools are really for * The K-12 pathway — How getting into a magnet elementary can set your child up with a connected community all the way through high school * The Wake County application process, step by step — Enrollment, touring, the application window, and how to build your ranking list strategically (but not too strategically) * Myth-busting the algorithm — Tamani debunks the #1 rumor she hears from parents * The best years to apply — Kindergarten, 6th grade, and 9th grade are your windows. Tamani explains why Tamani's parting message is one we love: magnet schools are wonderful, but the right school is the one that works for your child and your family's life. Whether you're deep in the application process or just starting to wonder what all the fuss is about, this episode will leave you feeling more informed and a lot less overwhelmed. Links & References Overview of WCPSS Magnet Schools: https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools [https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools] WCPSS Magnet School Themes: https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools/magnet-school-directory [https://www.wcpss.net/enroll/magnet-schools/magnet-school-directory]  WCPSS Magnet School priorities: https://www.wcpss.net/enrollment-resources/~board/enrollment-resources/post/application-priorities [https://www.wcpss.net/enrollment-resources/~board/enrollment-resources/post/application-priorities]  Wake County Round 2 Schools and Process: wcpss.net/round2 [http://wcpss.net/round2]

61. Building a School for Twice-Exceptional Students: The Story Behind Wonder Learning Center

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, we talk with Kelly Hayes, founder of Wonder Learning Center in Apex. Kelly shares how her path—from attorney to parent of twice-exceptional children—led her to create a learning environment designed specifically for gifted and neurodiverse middle and high school students. Wonder operates as a hybrid micro-school for students in grades 6–12. In our conversation, Kelly walks us through: * The story behind founding Wonder and the family experiences that inspired it * The school’s guiding mission and philosophy * What a typical day/week looks like for students in the program * How learning is structured, including both guided instruction and unstructured time * Why Wonder prioritizes screen-free, relationship-focused learning * Examples of immersive learning experiences, including field trips, guest speakers, and creative interdisciplinary projects * Which students and families tend to thrive in the program—and important limitations families should understand This episode is especially helpful for parents exploring: * Gifted education options * Neurodiverse-friendly learning environments * Small learning communities for middle and high school students * Alternatives to traditional school structures To learn more about Wonder Learning Center, visit https://www.wonderlearningcenternc.com/ [https://www.wonderlearningcenternc.com/]

60. Inside the International Baccalaureate Program: How IB Works at Burton Elementary

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Dr. Tiffany Boss and Amy Sanchez explore the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and how it comes to life at Burton Elementary School. They break down the IB educational philosophy and explain what sets it apart from traditional elementary school models. In this episode, you’ll learn: * What the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is and how the Primary Years Programme supports whole-child development * How IB emphasizes global citizenship, collaboration, inquiry-based learning, and social-emotional growth * The ways IB builds critical thinking, research, and communication skills through project-based learning and experiences  * How IB differs from traditional education models in both structure and classroom experience * What teacher training, professional development, and the IB accreditation process involve * How Burton Elementary implements IB successfully and supports students academically and emotionally * Key considerations and questions for parents deciding whether an IB elementary program is the right fit for their child This episode is especially helpful for parents researching International Baccalaureate programs, IB elementary schools, and progressive public school options that prioritize inquiry, student agency, and global-minded learning. * Burton Elementary website: https://www.dpsnc.net/o/burton [https://www.dpsnc.net/o/burton] * Burton Elementary tour signup: https://forms.gle/68V9KonodvB7QTDT6 [https://forms.gle/68V9KonodvB7QTDT6] (also linked on our website) * Contact Information: Amy Sanchez | amy_sanchez@dpsnc.net [amy_sanchez@dpsnc.net]

59. Grades or Growth? Understanding Carolina Friends School’s Unique Assessment Model

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Sarah sits down with Uzma Bogwani and Michelle Hageman DeCamp from Carolina Friends School to explore how one school is redefining assessment—and why it works. Together, they unpack Carolina Friends School’s departure from traditional grading systems and shine a light on the powerful impact of narrative feedback, authentic learning experiences, and a whole-child approach to academic growth. Listeners will learn how this Quaker-rooted school uses evidence-based assessment practices to foster confident, curious, self-directed learners who thrive in college and beyond. What We Discuss: * Alternative assessment methods used at Carolina Friends School across grade levels * Authentic learning experiences and real-world engagement as core components of the curriculum * Formative assessment and ongoing feedback that help students understand their strengths and areas for growth * How colleges view narrative assessments, and why Carolina Friends students stand out in the admissions process * Personalized, pressure-free learning paths that allow students to pursue multiple interests * The benefits of risk-taking, curiosity, and self-discovery in environments without traditional grades * Common misconceptions about non-traditional assessment and how students transition successfully to higher education

58. Charter Schools 101: Misconceptions and More

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Stephanie Klupinski for a deep dive into the world of charter schools — how they work, what sets them apart, and how parents can make informed decisions. Together, they explore: * What charter schools are and how they differ from traditional public schools * How funding and accountability work within the charter system * The admissions process, including lotteries and enrollment preferences * Special education services in charter schools and the legal responsibilities they hold * Key differences between states in how charter schools are authorized and supported * Common myths and misconceptions about charter schools Stephanie also shares: * Her perspective on the history and future of the charter movement * The importance of collaboration between charter and traditional public schools * How parents can evaluate charter schools based on their family’s values, school governance, and transparency * Practical tips for parents, from visiting schools and attending board meetings to reviewing state report cards and teacher data Whether you’re curious about charter schools, considering one for your child, or just want to better understand their role in public education, this episode provides a strong foundation to understanding the ins and outs of charter schools. For more information about NC charter schools, visit https://triangleschoolconsulting.com/charter-schools-in-the-triangle/ [https://triangleschoolconsulting.com/charter-schools-in-the-triangle/]  For information on the mentioned episode about doing school tours, check out Episode 57 of The Education Breakdown Podcast  https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ne4rd-1986e51 [https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ne4rd-1986e51]