Disclaimer:

This episode condemns all forms of political violence and dehumanization. It is a plea for civil discourse, honest education, and peace.

Summary:

In this poignant episode, Katie Jones reflects on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, emphasizing the need for civil discourse and the importance of education in fostering resilience and growth. She discusses how discomfort is essential for personal development and advocates for a holistic approach to education that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Drawing on historical examples, she highlights the dangers of silencing voices and the critical role of free speech in maintaining liberty. Ultimately, she calls for a collective effort to honor Charlie's legacy by empowering the next generation to engage in meaningful dialogue and stand firm in their convictions. Help Support Our Mission:

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In the second part of their conversation, Katie Jones and Dr. Mary Cochron continue exploring the role of assessments in education, with a strong focus on actionable advice for parents. They discuss the signs of test anxiety, ways to support students during testing season, and how parents can advocate for healthier testing environments in schools. Dr. Cochron offers valuable tips for homeschooling parents as well, explaining how assessments can serve as tools for feedback rather than stress points.

Tune in to discover:

• Practical steps for parents to help reduce test anxiety in students.
• The importance of understanding local vs. state testing requirements.
• How homeschool parents can leverage assessments without the stress.
• Tips for advocating for fair testing practices in schools.

Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or a public school advocate, this episode provides a roadmap for making assessments work for students, not against them.

Key Takeaways:

1. Reducing Test Anxiety – Tips for parents to help children handle testing season.
2. Advocating for Change – How parents can influence testing practices in their communities.
3. Homeschooling & Testing – Tailored advice for homeschoolers navigating assessments.
4. Understanding Testing Requirements – Distinguishing between local and state assessment needs.

Follow Mary⁠ at: ⁠https://www.metimured.com/⁠⁠Join One-Room⁠ Education: ⁠https://one-roomeducation.com/⁠

Get coaching with Katie, join the ⁠Foundations for Homeschool Mastery⁠ program: ⁠https://one-roomeducation.com/the-foundations-for-homeschool-mastery-coaching-program/

In this insightful episode of The State of Education podcast, host Katie Jones welcomes back Dr. Mary Cochron, a nationally recognized assessment specialist. They dive into the origins of high-stakes testing, exploring the history and intentions behind standardized assessments and how they have shifted over the years. Dr. Cochron shares her experiences from the classroom to the district level, discussing the impact of assessments on educators, students, and entire school systems. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of: The differences between classroom assessments, district-level tests, and state-mandated exams. How high-stakes testing can impact teaching, funding, and student anxiety. Dr. Cochron’s perspective on why assessments were designed and how they could be used more effectively. Join Katie and Dr. Cochron as they unpack the misconceptions around assessments and why understanding them is essential for parents and educators alike. Key Takeaways: Purpose of Testing – The history and intended use of assessments in education. Types of Assessments – Differentiating classroom, district, and state-level assessments. Challenges of High-Stakes Testing – How high-stakes testing impacts students and teachers. Insights from an Assessment Specialist – Dr. Cochron’s journey and views on improving the testing system.

Follow Mary at: https://www.metimured.com/ Join One-Room Education: https://one-roomeducation.com/

Get coaching with Katie, join the Foundations for Homeschool Mastery program: https://one-roomeducation.com/the-foundations-for-homeschool-mastery-coaching-program/