March is Reading Month: Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Why Kindergarten Readiness Can’t Wait

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.

Second Chances: Education After Juvenile Justice

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.

Why Attendance Matters: Understanding and Addressing Absenteeism

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.

Why Students Miss School: Understanding Chronic Absenteeism

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.

March is Reading Month: Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Learning

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.