Episode 3: The Politics of Education: Wrestling with Project 2025 Subtitle: A Deep Dive into Education’s Tug-of-War Over Values and Funding

In this episode, Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dive into one of the most polarizing education policy proposals of our time: Project 2025. The team examines the potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, the shift to state-controlled funding, and the far-reaching consequences for students, teachers, and families across the nation.

Join the hosts as they explore: • The history and role of the Department of Education in U.S. schools. • How Project 2025 aims to redefine federal and state responsibilities in education. • The tension between regional control, equity, and systemic bias. • Potential implications for Vermont’s schools and property tax system. • Broader questions about the purpose of education and the values it reflects in a divided America.

With their signature mix of candor and insight, they tackle questions about federalism, capitalism, and the intersection of policy and practice in the classroom. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or policymaker, this conversation will leave you thinking deeply about the future of education in America.

Resources Mentioned: • Project 2025 • Historical insights into the Department of Education’s creation and evolution • Vermont’s Act 77 and Flexible Pathways Initiative • The role of federal funding in local school systems

You can find a link to these and the resources mentioned in our podcasts by visiting the Resources page of our website: https://fourwindslearningcollective.org/resources.html

Call to Action: Join the conversation! What are your thoughts on Project 2025 and its potential impact on education? Reach out to us on social media or via email to share your perspective.

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Episode 2: Reclaiming Passion in the Age of Distraction Subtitle: The Battle for Focus and Purpose in the Modern Classroom

In this episode, Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dive into the pressing challenges faced by educators, parents, and students in a world dominated by screens. They explore themes from Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, discussing how technology distracts from passion, creativity, and the pursuit of purpose.

Join the hosts as they reflect on: • The rise of smartphones and their impact on learning, focus, and mental health. • The tension between progressive, passion-based education and the pervasive influence of social media. • Personal anecdotes from their classrooms and lives, including the role of play-based versus screen-based childhoods. • The critical need for awareness, balance, and intentional use of technology in education.

Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply someone passionate about creating a better world for the next generation, this thought-provoking conversation is for you.

Resources Mentioned: • The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt • The Coddling of the American Mind by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff • NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman • The Social Dilemma (documentary)

Don’t miss this engaging discussion on how we can reclaim passion, creativity, and focus in a distracted age.

Show Notes: Episode 1 - The Four Winds Learning Collective

Episode Title: "Breaking the Rules: Education in the Great Outdoors"

Episode Summary: Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Four Winds Learning Collective podcast! Join Stuart, Kyle, and Jen as they embark on a candid and insightful discussion about the state of education, all while enjoying the great outdoors. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come, introducing the core philosophy of the Four Winds Learning Collective and teasing future topics.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Introduction to the Four Winds Learning Collective: - The mission and vision behind the collective. - The importance of creating multiple pathways for young people to find their best path in life.

2. Background of the Hosts: - Stuart, Kyle, and Jen share their extensive experience in education, from kindergarten to graduate level. - The journey from working in a school together to founding the Four Winds Learning Collective.

3. The Four Winds Philosophy: - Belonging: Understanding where you fit in and how you connect with others. - Mastery: Finding something you excel at and the importance of persistence and grit. - Independence: Developing self-control, autonomy, and confidence. - Generosity: The natural tendency to give back and the importance of having a purpose.

4. Challenges in Education: - The obstacles faced in trying to innovate within the educational system. - The importance of holistic development in students.

5. Future Podcast Topics: - The anxious generation and the impact of technology on young minds. - Teacher and student burnout. - The myth of the high-quality teacher and the role of caring adults in education. - Neuroscience and attachment theory. - Standards and proficiencies in education. - Mindfulness and its role in holistic development.

Quotes from the Episode:

• Stuart: "We're creating multiple products and there should be so many different ways for young people to find their best path."
• Kyle: "If you can get those four things—belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity—you've succeeded as an educator."
• Jen: "When you have a purpose and you feel your purpose and you can articulate your purpose, it feels good."

Recommended Reading:

• Stuart's Pick: Moon Unit Zappa's autobiography – A funny, insightful, and smart read about growing up in the 90s and dealing with insecure attachment.
• Kyle's Pick: "A Distant Mirror" by Barbara Tuchman – A deep dive into the 14th century, which among many other things, touches on the the resilience of children through historical hardships.
• Jen's Current Studies: Adolescent development and abnormal psychology – Exploring the depths of depression and brain function.

Join the Conversation: We invite you to join us on this journey as we explore various aspects of education and holistic development. If you have any topics you'd like us to cover or questions for the hosts, feel free to reach out!

Contact Information:

• Email: info@fourwindslearningcollective.org
• Social Media: Facebook

Subscribe & Follow: Don't forget to subscribe to the Four Winds Learning Collective podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for updates and more educational content.

Closing Note: Thank you for tuning in to our first episode! We look forward to sharing more insights and engaging in meaningful conversations about education and beyond. Until next time, stay curious and keep learning!

Music Credits: "Volunteers," by Jefferson Airplane (1969)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations.