Always Learning

Author Ashley Berner discusses the concept of educational pluralism and its potential to improve public education. She highlights the need for a diverse range of schools, both public and private, that offer different approaches and philosophies. Berner explores how successful democracies around the world have implemented educational pluralism and the lessons that can be learned from them. She emphasizes the importance of a high-quality curriculum that provides students with a broad knowledge base and the skills to engage with different perspectives. Berner also addresses concerns about indoctrination and the role of public oversight in ensuring equity and excellence in education. The conversation explores the importance of data and accountability in education, the need for a knowledge-rich curriculum, and the challenges of educational pluralism.

Karega Rausch, President & CEO of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA), discusses the importance of education and the need to amplify the brilliance of young people. He shares his personal mission to create systems that can identify and bring out the brilliance in students. Rausch emphasizes the importance of innovative and engaging education while maintaining high expectations for student outcomes. He also highlights the role of relationships between adults and students in creating successful schools.

The conversation explores the role of systems thinking in education and the unique contributions of different systems, such as schools, families, and communities. We learn how charter schools are adding value to the public education landscape by demonstrating stronger student outcomes and offering innovative educational models. The conversation touches on diverse options, from classical schools to STEM schools, that cater to the specific needs of communities. Charter schools are free, public, and open to all students, and they are often started by educators and community members who want to create a different vision for education. The role of charter school authorizers is crucial in reviewing applications, setting expectations, and ensuring accountability for student outcomes. Authorizers have the power to say yes to innovative ideas and plans that can benefit students and families, and they also have the responsibility to say no when a plan is not ready or does not meet the necessary criteria.

In this episode of Always Learning, host Chris Stewart talks with Karyn Parsons, well known for her role as Hillary Banks on 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' and now a children's author and founder of Sweet Blackberry, a media company making Black history accessible to kids. They discuss the inspiration behind her work,, and the importance of representation in children's literature. Parsons also reflects on her upbringing, parenting strategies, and how societal changes have influenced modern parenting. The conversation highlights the significance of telling diverse stories and the impact these narratives can have on young minds.

Ralph Farquhar, a seasoned TV and film writer and producer, opens up about his life and career. Ralph talks about the grit it took to push through being underestimated, especially as a young black man facing societal doubts. He shares his story from writing for the much-loved "Happy Days" to being the creative mind behind hit shows like "Moesha" and "The Parkers." Ralph credits his supportive parents and his strong middle-class background for fueling his determination to succeed in the creative industry.

Ralph's career took some surprising turns, starting with a job in advertising before a lucky break landed him a gig on "Happy Days." Through connections made at a local travel agency, he got an inside look at Hollywood that changed everything. Ralph highlights the importance of networking and always being ready to contribute. Special mentors, like Gary Marshall, played a massive part in his growth. His journey didn't stop there; he moved on to produce revered shows like "Married with Children" and co-create the thought-provoking "South Central."

As a founding board member of Education Post, Emma Bloomberg reflects on a decade of growth for our non profit as well as sharing her insights on the changing landscape of education advocacy, the importance of elevating parent and student voices, and the necessity of local engagement.

The conversation also delves into Emma’s journey, the role of data in grassroots organizing, and the importance of celebrating educational successes. Chris and Emma highlight the challenges and victories in education advocacy, the significance of collaboration, and the need for a kid-centric approach in policy making.

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Emma Bloomberg is CEO of Murmuration, a public-education advocacy organization reducing inequality through data-driven community organizing and electoral campaigns. She started the organization in 2014. Previously, Bloomberg was chief of staff and, before that, senior planning officer at the Robin Hood Foundation, dedicated to fighting poverty in New York City. She was a founding board member of Ed Post and is a board member of Bloomberg Family Foundation, KIPP Foundation, New Classrooms, and Leadership for Educational Equity.