Deep Dives: How Alexander Twilight Academy Empowers the Next Generation
In today’s episode of Deep Dives, we’re excited to explore an educational program making a significant impact in Boston: the Alexander Twilight Academy. Named after the first African American college graduate in the U.S., this academy is designed to help students from underrepresented backgrounds in Boston achieve their full potential.
Ross is joined by Annie Weinberg, the founder and school leader of Twilight Academy, and two of her remarkable students, who share the history and impact of Twilight Academy, their personal journeys, and how ATA has supported their academic and leadership growth.
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26:59
Deep Dives: How NYC Is Preparing For This School Year
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As we head into a new school year, schools and families across the country are grappling with significant challenges, from teacher shortages to enrollment fluctuations and the integration of new technologies. Today, we're focusing on these key issues by taking a close look at the largest school district in the nation: New York City.
In today’s episode, Jill and Ross are joined by Dan Weisberg, the First Deputy Chancellor for the NYC Department of Education. Dan plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategies under Chancellor David Banks' leadership, overseeing areas like postsecondary readiness, human resources, policy, and enrollment. With his extensive background in labor policy, talent management, and academic strategy, Dan brings a unique perspective to the pressing issues facing schools today.
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34:36
Deep Dives: How Can We Help Kids Navigate the Digital World?
In today’s episode, Jill is joined by Dr. Jill Walsh. She is a sociologist and researcher at Boston University, and specializes in the impact of technology and social media on adolescent development. Dr. Walsh is also the founder of Digital Aged, through which she works with schools and families to give them the tools to help young people navigate the online world.
Jill and Dr. Walsh discuss how schools are addressing student relationships with social media and technology and how parents can help students establish healthy relationships with the digital world and set healthy boundaries.
If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Walsh’s work, check out the resources below.
Dr. Jill Walsh’s Bio
Dr. Jill Walsh’s Research
Digital Aged
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55:07
Deep Dives: What Should Be The Role of Standardized Testing?
Standardized testing has long been a cornerstone in educational systems, serving as a tool for measuring student achievement and influencing decisions at every level of schooling. Supporters see standardized tests as essential for maintaining accountability and providing clear metrics for comparison across educational landscapes. However, many have called for moving away from standardized tests, with critics arguing that these tests can reinforce inequality, pressure teachers to "teach to the test," and fail to capture the full scope of student potential.
In today’s episode, Jill and Ross are joined by two experts to explore this topic. Harry Feder is the Executive Director of Fair Test, a national organization that advocates for fair and equitable testing practices. Harry brings a wealth of experience in challenging the way tests are used and proposing alternatives.
Dr. Martin West is a professor and academic dean at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and a board member of the National Assessment Governing Board. Dr. West offers a unique perspective with his extensive research on education policy and his involvement in shaping how assessments are created and implemented.
To learn more about Dr West’s research and Harry’s work with Fair Test, check out the resources below.
Harry Feder Bio
Dr. Martin West Bio
Fair Test
Research on MCAS in Massachusetts
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41:02
Deep Dives: How To Get Your Kids Into College
Last week, Jill and Ross hosted a live podcast recording at the University Club in Boston, MA, with College Uncovered co-hosts Jon Marcus and Kirk Carapezza. Jon is a higher education editor for The Hechinger Report, and Kirk is the managing editor and correspondent for higher education at GBH News. Their podcast, College Uncovered, helps families and students navigate higher education and understand the problems and risks in higher education. In this live recording, Jill and Ross talk to Jon and Kirk about the state of higher education and what families need to know in helping their kids get into college.
To listen to College Uncovered and read more of Jon and Kirk’s work, check out the resources below.
College Uncovered
Jon Marcus’s Bio
Kirk Carapezza’s Bio
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"Deep Dives" brings together national experts to discuss the biggest issues impacting America's schools, diving deep into root causes and exploring innovative solutions.
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