Love the Good: Shawna’s Unexpected Path to Microschool Founder

Love the Good: Shawna’s Unexpected Path to Microschool Founder

In this week’s episode, we chat with Shawna Hein, parent of two teenagers and founder of Northfield Academy, to explore how classical education helps students learn to love the good. Shawna shares her journey from homeschooling her neurodivergent son to (unexpectedly) leading a microschool that prioritizes beauty, wonder, and deep learning. We discuss why reading Shakespeare aloud as a community beats silent reading, how etymology becomes second nature, and why hospitality matters.  HIGHLIGHTS • Why classical education focuses on helping students "discern what is good and love the good" • How reading ancient texts aloud as a community mirrors their original oral tradition • The power of etymology and how students begin "thinking in Cedi form" • Why Northfield Academy keeps class sizes small and technology minimal • How one struggling freshman improved 3-4 grade levels in reading within a year • The importance of asking "why" behind every rule and lesson • How homeschooling can reignite a parent's own love of learning • Why hospitality and creating welcoming learning environments matter • The myth that non-traditional education has to be expensive CHAPTERS [0:23] Introduction to Shawna Hein and Northfield Academy [1:00] Shawna's favorite Shakespeare piece and teaching it to young students [4:16] What it means to "discern what is good and love the good" [6:49] Reading the classics aloud as a community [9:01] Shawna's homeschooling journey with her neurodivergent son [12:36] How her daughter requested to attend school and discovered Northfield [19:52] The three components of classical education: grammar, logic, and rhetoric [28:52] The importance of low-tech learning and building relationships [31:50] How both of Shawna's children chose different educational paths [36:06] The school motto: "Let them be born in wonder" RESOURCES MENTIONED • Northfield Academy - Classical micro school in Wichita, Kansas - https://northfieldacademy.org [https://northfieldacademy.org/]• Eighth Day Books - Local bookstore in Wichita - https://eighthdaybooks.com [https://eighthdaybooks.com/]• ACE Scholarships - Scholarship program that helps families afford private education - https://acescholarships.org [https://acescholarships.org/]• WISE (Wichita Innovative Schools and Education) - Resource organization for alternative education options - https://www.wisetogether.org/ [https://www.wisetogether.org/] Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vela-own-your-education/id6745899742] or Google Play [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vela].

Classical Roots, Radical Simplicity: William on family, faith, and education (Part 2)

What if the key to raising resilient, grounded children isn't found in more activities, more technology, or more structured programs—but in less? In Part 2 of last week’s episode, William Durant—father of seven and founder of St. John Paul II Independent School—dives deeper into classical education through the lens of the “common arts.” He shares why hands-on work, good books, and a clear pursuit of truth are essential to forming thoughtful, grounded children in a world increasingly shaped by technology. William also offers practical resources for families curious about classical education and simple steps for setting technology aside and learning to notice the beauty of everyday life. HIGHLIGHTS * The "common arts" philosophy: combining liberal arts (mind), fine arts (heart), and common arts (hands) to form the whole child * How a fourth grader's struggle with chain mail weaving taught him perseverance—a lesson he couldn't learn from academics alone * Why students are "evangelizing" to their parents about sourdough starters, leather work, and vegetable gardening * The difference between surface-level modern education and the deep, integrated approach of classical learning * How JP2 measures success: not through test scores, but through families saying "we wouldn't do it any other way" * Why the school has no computers for students K-8, and how this prepares them better for the future * Teaching students to question everything—even the historical inaccuracies in famous paintings like Washington Crossing the Delaware * The reality of "dewiring" children's brains when they transition from public school to a slower, deeper pace of learning * Practical first steps for parents: turn off the TV, read a story, look at the stars together * Why it's never too late to change your parenting approach, even if your older children had a different experience CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 00:15 - Homeschooling and Common Arts 01:02 - Student Engagement and Family Impact 01:30 - Traditional Values and Project-Based Learning 01:33 - Growth and Family Dynamics 02:49 - Hands-On Learning and Perseverance 05:27 - Founding a Classical School 08:25 - Classical vs. Modern Education 11:42 - Technology in Education 17:10 - The Role of Technology in Education 19:35 - Artistic License in Historical Representation 23:45 - Classical Education: Philosophy and Approach 27:00 - Integrating Classical Education into Modern Life 29:16 - Parental Guidance and Faith in Education 32:10 - Encouraging Ownership in Learning 35:05 - Practical Steps for Parents Interested in Classical Education 40:54 - Final Thoughts and Reflections RESOURCES MENTIONED * Classical U [https://www.classicalu.com/] * Classical School Wichita [https://www.classicalschoolwichita.org/] * St. John Paul II Independent School (JP2) [https://www.jp2independentschool.org/] Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vela-own-your-education/id6745899742] or Google Play [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vela].

Classical Roots, Radical Simplicity: William on family, faith, and education (Part 1)

What if the key to raising resilient, grounded children isn't found in more activities, more technology, or more structured programs—but in less? In this episode, William Durant—a father of seven and founder of St. John Paul II Independent School—shares how faith and family shape the way he lives and educates his children. He explains the principles behind his Catholic classical school and why simplicity matters at home. William also shares why his family chose a tech-free household—and how life without TV or cell phones has opened the door to more connection, creativity, and play. Highlights * How a group of seven families launched a classical Catholic school during COVID out of a desire to have a voice in their children's education * Why William and his wife Katie chose a no-TV, no-phone household and how they protect family time over organized sports * The hybrid school model: Monday-Thursday in-person learning with homeschool Fridays to keep parents integral in their children's education * What "discipline out of love" really means and why clear boundaries help children become good human beings * The three-legged stool of education: liberal arts (shaping the mind), fine arts (shaping the heart), and common arts (shaping the hands) * Hands-on learning experiences at JP2: tapping maple trees, extracting honey from beehives, tanning deer hides, and growing vegetables in hoop houses * How reading aloud as a family—from The Hobbit to Little House on the Prairie—creates lasting memories and models what matters * Why knowing who you are in God's eyes is the ultimate goal of childhood formation Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 00:13 - Founding of St. John Paul II Independent School 01:37 - Educational Philosophy and Curriculum 05:18 - Balancing Homeschool and Traditional School 05:27 - Daily School Routine and Structure 07:58 - Family Values and Home Life 13:05 - Faith as the Foundation of Family Life 16:37 - Discipline and Parenting Approach 19:51 - The Role of Discipline in Parenting 24:41 - Intentional Parenting and Family Activities 26:20 - Classical Education and Its Importance 28:30 - Unique Aspects of J2 School 33:16 - Integrating Common Arts into Education 34:13 - Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Resources Mentioned Books: * The Hobbit [https://www.amazon.com/Hobbit-J-R-Tolkien/dp/054792822X] by J.R.R. Tolkien * Little House on the Prairie series [https://www.amazon.com/Little-House-Prairie-Ingalls-Wilder/dp/0064400026] by Laura Ingalls Wilder * The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe [https://www.amazon.com/Lion-Witch-Wardrobe-Chronicles-Narnia/dp/0064471047] by C.S. Lewis Schools & Organizations: * St. John Paul II Independent School (JP2) [https://www.jp2independentschool.org/] * Classical U [https://www.classicalu.com/] * Diocese of Wichita [https://www.catholicdioceseofwichita.org/] Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vela-own-your-education/id6745899742] or Google Play [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vela].

A new school-life balance: Ali and Taylor’s Journey

For many families, sending children to school full time at a young age isn’t the best fit. Some want a more active role in their children’s education, while others simply want more time together during childhood. In this week’s episode, moms Ali and Taylor share why they chose hybrid homeschooling and how it’s the perfect blend of structure and freedom for their families. If you’re curious about homeschooling but uncertain about doing it full time, this episode is for you. Highlights * Why two families chose hybrid homeschooling over traditional school * The meaning and value of “slow living” for busy families * How hybrid models provide both structure and flexibility * Overcoming fears and misconceptions about homeschooling * The role of community, accountability, and family involvement * Adapting to challenges: juggling younger kids, changing routines, and embracing chaos * Encouragement for parents considering alternative education paths * Debunking myths: Homeschooling isn’t about fear or sheltering—it’s about opportunity and freedom * The importance of sibling relationships and real-life learning moments Chapters 00:35 – Meet the Families: Ali and Taylor 01:41 – The Concept of Slow Living 02:45 – Choosing Hybrid Homeschooling 04:01 – Homeschooling Curriculum and Accountability 06:07 – Parental Involvement and Challenges 10:16 – Making the Decision to Homeschool 15:20 – Children’s Interests and Future Plans 18:59 – Screen Time and Family Activities 20:03 – Family Interests and Outdoor Activities 21:02 – Gardening and Teaching Moments 22:00 – Homeschooling and Family Involvement 23:21 – Challenges and Adaptations in Homeschooling 25:30 – Balancing Education and Family Life 27:52 – Embracing Chaos and Creativity 32:06 – Advice for Parents Considering Homeschooling 35:33 – Debunking Myths About Homeschooling 38:13 – Personal Growth Through Homeschooling 39:37 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Mentioned * Light Academy (the hybrid homeschool program discussed): https://wichitalightacademy.com/https://www.lightacademywichita.com/ [https://www.lightacademywichita.com/] Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vela-own-your-education/id6745899742] or Google Play [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vela].

Get Schooled on Unschooling: How Cassie Breaks Traditional Rules

Join us for a candid conversation with Cassie Tinsmon, founder of Lily Lake Play Cafe and Homeschool Collective who unpacks what it means to “unschool” your kids. Cassie shares how she came to embrace a curriculum-free approach and tap into her community to create a rich lifestyle of learning centered on her children’s unique talents and interests.  For Cassie, some rules are made to be broken—and a little risk is part of the equation, too. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooler, just curious, or somewhere in between, you’ll find inspiration and practical wisdom in this episode. Highlights * Cassie’s personal story: from a family of independent thinkers to launching Lily Lake * The vision and evolution of Lily Lake Play Cafe and Homeschool Collective * What “unschooling” really looks like in practice * How to build a supportive, flexible learning community * Letting go of perfection and embracing real-life learning * The role of parents as facilitators, not just teachers * Navigating family, work, and education in a changing world * Myths and realities about socialization and nontraditional education * Encouraging risk-taking, critical thinking, and kindness in kids * Practical tips for parents considering homeschooling or alternative education Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast 01:07 – Cassie's Background in Homeschooling 02:11 – Founding Lily Lake Play Cafe 02:54 – The Concept of Lily Lake 04:39 – Flexible Membership Model 04:42 – Cassie's Parenting Style 07:56 – Vivian's Role at Lily Lake 09:53 – Homeschooling Journey 14:43 – Unschooling Philosophy 16:38 – Learning Through Real-Life Experiences 19:03 – Interactive Learning at Lily Lake 21:23 – Current Focus as a Parent 21:44 – Struggles with Unschooling Expectations 22:27 – Play Cafe Adventures 23:23 – Aspiring Attorney Dreams 24:30 – Campaign Finance Career 26:21 – Creative Compliance 26:21 – Critical Thinking and Rules 27:57 – Community and Shared Spaces 35:53 – Homeschooling Myths 38:20 – Learning Through Real-Life Situations 44:13 – Encouraging Risk-Taking in Kids 44:35 – Importance of Play 47:39 – Questioning Everything Resources Mentioned * Lily Lake Play Cafe & Homeschool Collective https://www.lilylakecollective.com [https://www.lilylakecollective.com/] * Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom https://www.harpercollins.com/products/tuesdays-with-morrie-mitch-albom [https://www.harpercollins.com/products/tuesdays-with-morrie-mitch-albom] * Reverie Coffee Roasters (local coffee served at Lily Lake) https://reverieroasters.com [https://reverieroasters.com/] Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this conversation, please share it with a friend or leave a review to help others find the show. Take the first step by downloading the VELA app in the App Store [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vela-own-your-education/id6745899742] or Google Play [https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vela]. Own Your Education is part of the ICT Podcast Network. For more information, visit ictpod.net [http://ictpod.net].