Homeschooling Surge, Bullying Crisis, and Fixing Schools: A Raw Education Talk

Dive into Episode 1 of Class Dismissed! a no-holds-barred discussion with host Daryl Faulks, veteran teacher, Ashleigh Paine (What The Hays! host), a homeschooling mom, and Terry Lee (The Front Porch Podcast host), a public school dad, as they tackle the education crisis.

From the rise of homeschooling to unchecked bullying, cell phone distractions, and disengaged school admins, this episode uncovers why parents are pulling kids from public schools and how Texas can fix education. Packed with real stories and bold solutions, it’s a must-watch for anyone who cares about kids! #educationreform

Important Timestamps:

0:07 - Introduction to the changing perception of homeschooling, noting its growing popularity as an alternative.
0:32 - Discussion of bullying in schools, with teachers and administrators feeling restricted in addressing it.
0:53 - Explanation of state anti-bullying laws, highlighting inconsistent enforcement by school districts.
1:22 - Anecdote about an administrator candidate suggesting candy as a solution to bullying, exposing hiring flaws.
2:43 - Observation of students roaming school halls unchecked, with admins failing to enforce discipline.
3:36 - Shift to homeschooling, with parents opting out due to bullying and social-emotional concerns.
5:00 - Heartbreaking mention of student suicides linked to social media bullying, stressing the need for open dialogue.
6:01 - Positive effects of homeschooling on kids’ confidence and sibling bonds, with examples from the speaker’s children.
8:27 - Critique of declining parent involvement in schools and its impact on school culture.
11:01 - Teacher reflects on feeling challenged by parents’ questions, advocating for open, non-defensive communication.
15:33 - Detailed benefits of homeschooling, including tailored education and increased student confidence.
18:37 - Logistics of homeschooling revealed: only 2 hours daily, using apps and textbooks, debunking time myths.
29:00 - Disturbing story of a second-grader punched at school, with no parental notification, prompting homeschooling.
33:50 - Discussion of middle school dynamics, comparing it to “Hunger Games” due to bullying and social pressures.
50:00 - Passionate defense of dedicated teachers, but acknowledgment that fewer are truly engaged today.
53:27 - Cell phones identified as a major driver of bullying, cheating, and anxiety in schools.
1:06:01 - Teacher shares innovative use of Google Classroom for AP exam prep, showing commitment to student success.
1:17:22 - Critique of politically driven curriculum and school boards, calling for top-down educational reform.
2:06:02 - Shift in perspective on vouchers, supporting choice but wary of political motives and implementation flaws.
2:28:00 - Final thoughts: Education isn’t black-and-white; flexibility and critical thinking are key to helping kids thrive.

#Homeschooling #PublicSchools #BullyingAwareness #CriticalThinking