School Home Connection

Alexander Kirton

School Home Connection is a podcast dedicated to strengthening the partnership between schools, families, and communities. Hosted by veteran educator Alexander Kirton, the show features meaningful conversations with educators, parents, leaders, and community voices who are passionate about helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Each episode explores topics such as education, parenting, student success, leadership, communication, community engagement, and the real-life challenges impacting today’s schools and families. School Home Connection was created to inspire coll

Episodes

  1. 24 Sept

    Episode 6:Mastering Performance Anxiety: Strategies for Parents and music students with Kristin Behlmann

    In this episode, Kristen Behlmann, a performance coach and counselor, shares insights on managing performance anxiety, perfectionism, and burnout among musicians and educators. We explore practical strategies for handling nerves, building confidence, and fostering sustainable performance habits. keywords performance anxiety, musicians, educators, burnout, perfectionism, mental health, coaching, counseling, performance tips key topics Performance anxiety symptoms and management Differences in navigating nerves in sports vs. music The role of perception in anxiety and stress Strategies for teachers to support anxious students Separating performance coaching from counseling Signs of burnout and how to address them The importance of present-moment focus in performance Tools for handling mistakes and chaos during performances guest name Kristin Behlmann sound bites "It's our perception on the same energy." "Slow down, take a full exhale, and breathe." "Loosen your grip, and let go of perfectionism." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 669:25:52 Kristin's journey from performer to counselor 1452:45:54 Understanding the energy of nerves in sports vs. music 2094:25:55 Kristin's transition into performance counseling 33222:12:41 Common symptoms of performance anxiety 39499:59:28 Perception and mindset in managing nerves 50638:52:50 Breathing and relaxation techniques 54861:06:15 Perfectionism and burnout: strategies to let go 68027:46:21 Supporting students through mistakes and chaos 73666:39:46 Differences between counseling and performance coaching 87527:46:38 Final words of encouragement and resources resources Kristen Behlmann - Performance Coach and Counselor - https://www.kristinbehlmann.com/music-educator-group?fbclid=IwY2xjawUiN_NleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mBWJyaWQRMWx5cHVDendyZGNmU252ZjdzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEejszFSOHliIWBKY8U67NxxfME6Yg4e0eMOa7KNf0lsf8fsltmluy01_SwhK4_aem_GnXyUwXr2K1VF3ACpzsF3Q Performance Anxiety Cohorts https://www.kristinbehlmann.com/music-educator-group?fbclid=IwY2xjawUiN8JleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mBWJyaWQRMWx5cHVDendyZGNmU252ZjdzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEejszFSOHliIWBKY8U67NxxfME6Yg4e0eMOa7KNf0lsf8fsltmluy01_SwhK4_aem_GnXyUwXr2K1VF3ACpzsF3Q and Workshops - https://www.kristinbehlmann.com/workshops Texas Music Educators Association - https://www.tmea.org guest links Website -https://www.kristinbehlmann.com Performance Coaching - https://www.bellmanperformance.com

  2. 2 Sept

    Episode 5-The power of PTA-Velida Ford Family Engagement Director

    content type Interview primary goal Educational summary In this episode, Val Ford, a seasoned PTA leader and family engagement expert, shares insights on building effective parent-school partnerships, increasing PTA involvement, and supporting diverse families. Discover practical strategies to foster inclusive engagement and empower parents to advocate for all children. keywords PTA, family engagement, parent involvement, school partnerships, diversity, advocacy, education, community, PTA leadership key topics Difference between family involvement and engagement Strategies to increase PTA participation Building trust with diverse families Effective advocacy for children Innovative ways to engage families outside meetings The impact of family engagement on student success Future trends in parent-school partnerships Resources for PTA leaders and parents sound bites "Family engagement goes deeper than involvement" "Families are our child's first and most influential teachers" "Advocacy begins with listening and building relationships" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest Val Ford 01:27 Val Ford's journey in PTA leadership 694:24:06 The importance of family engagement vs. involvement 1199:57:26 Building partnerships with families for student success 18138:51:11 Why family engagement predicts student achievement 21861:04:31 Supporting busy parents in helping their children 27611:04:33 Partnering with parents for classroom success 31861:04:36 Creating welcoming PTA environments 37944:24:41 Encouraging first-time PTA meeting attendance 41444:24:44 Effective advocacy for all children 44777:44:47 The four I's of inclusive family engagement 50277:44:54 Success stories of engaged families 56333:18:17 Engaging diverse and underrepresented families 626666:39:54 Flexible volunteering options for busy families 679444:26:34 Small actions with big impacts 720833:19:56 Journey from local to national PTA leadership 733611:06:36 Common misconceptions about PTA 764444:26:38 The future of family engagement and technology 806666:39:58 Upcoming family engagement newsletter 845277:46:40 How to get involved in PTA at any level 865000:00:00 Encouragement for dedicated PTA parents 927222:13:20 Closing remarks and appreciation for PTA efforts

  3. 21 Jul

    Episode 4 AI and Education: What Parents Need to Know-with Dr. Andrea Kellman

    summary In this episode, Dr. Andrea Kelli shares insights on artificial intelligence in education, its impact on teachers and students, and practical advice for parents navigating this new landscape. Discover how AI is transforming classrooms and what parents can do to stay informed and proactive. keywords AI in education, artificial intelligence, parenting, teaching, technology, student safety, AI tools, education technology, AI ethics, school policies key topics AI's impact on teachers and students How schools are handling AI Protecting children's data in a digital world Practical steps for parents to manage AI use The future of education and AI sound bites "Your name is a nod to your legacy." "AI mimics human cognition and decision-making." "Hold the line for inquiry, research, and good work." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 03:02 The Significance of Names and Legacy 05:55 Dr. Andrea Kelli's Journey in Education 09:04 Exploring the Dissertation on AI in Education 12:04 Understanding Artificial Intelligence 14:46 AI's Impact on Parenting and Education 17:39 Misconceptions About AI 20:44 Navigating AI in Schools 23:43 The Unique Challenges of AI 26:43 Conversations About AI with Children 29:37 Protecting Children's Data in the Age of AI 36:14 Navigating AI in Education 40:50 Engaging Parents in AI Conversations 46:11 AI as a Teaching Tool 50:41 Fostering Creativity and Empathy with AI 01:02:35 Hope for the Future of Education resources Dr. Andrea Kelli's Website - https://www.andreakelli.com/ AI Platforms Mentioned - https://chat.openai.com Book: Ray Bradbury's Short Stories - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ray+Bradbury+short+stories

  4. 15 Jul

    Episode 3 :How Community Partnerships Transform Lives of Young Adults with Disabilities-Angela Lucas

    summary In this heartfelt interview, Angela Lucas shares her inspiring journey of creating Hangout One Happy Place, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of young adults with developmental disabilities. Discover her insights on community partnerships, overcoming challenges, and the transformative power of love, music, and friendship in fostering inclusion and happiness. keywords special needs, nonprofit, community partnership, inclusion, autism, life skills, education, Baldwin, advocacy, joy key topics The origin of Hangout One Happy Place Community partnerships and support systems Challenges faced during COVID-19 and solutions The importance of friendship and inclusion for young adults with disabilities Future goals including housing and lifelong support sound bites "Respect every single person as an individual" "My award is when these kids are happy and dancing" "Next week we're having a prom here, just for them" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Angela Lucas and Her Journey 02:58 The Birth of Hangout One Happy Place 05:57 Building Community and Overcoming Challenges 08:58 The Impact of COVID-19 on Services 11:52 Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment 14:33 Core Values and Inclusion 17:20 The Importance of Music and Expression 19:57 Navigating Life After School for Young Adults 22:57 Advice for Parents and Community Engagement 25:18 Creating a Safe Space for Students 26:54 Magical Moments: A Special Student Story 28:58 Recognition and Awards: A Journey of Growth 31:09 The Role of Teacher Aides in Education 33:05 Finding Motivation Beyond Awards 34:35 Building Community Partnerships 36:23 The Importance of a Supportive Environment 39:48 Engaging Volunteers and Community Support 42:52 Future Aspirations: Housing for Young Adults 44:49 Connecting with the Community

  5. 23 Jun

    Episode 1: Better Together—Building Strong School-Home Partnerships

    Join principals Monica Lemons and Nicole Young for the inaugural episode of School Home Connection as they explore why strong partnerships between schools and families are essential for student success. From keeping children engaged during the summer to recognizing emotional and academic needs, they share practical strategies for communication, building trust, and creating a positive school community. Whether you're a parent or educator, this conversation offers encouragement and actionable ideas to help children thrive both in the classroom and at home. keywordsschool home partnership, student success, parental involvement, educational strategies, school communicationkey topics Importance of school and home connectionStrategies for effective parent-teacher communicationSupporting emotional and academic development during summerRecognizing signs of student emotional or academic needsBuilding positive school culture and communityBridging the Gap: How School and Home Can Collaborate for Student SuccessThe Power of Partnership: Enhancing Education Through Parent-Teacher Collaboration"Conversation after experiences is huge""It's natural to have some nervousness""Start fresh with an open mind"Monica Lemons and Nicole Young Chapters00:00Introduction to School Connection Podcast 02:07The Importance of School-Home Connection 05:34Keeping Kids Engaged During Summer 09:08Summer Routines and Downtime 14:18Recognizing Signs of Academic and Emotional Needs 17:05Steps to Addressing Concerns with Teachers 21:19Preparing for the New School Year 25:54Establishing Expectations for School Success 30:02Navigating Technology in Education 39:21The Role of PTA in School Community 43:13Emotional Wellness and Student Support 53:16Building Successful School-Home Partnerships

About

School Home Connection is a podcast dedicated to strengthening the partnership between schools, families, and communities. Hosted by veteran educator Alexander Kirton, the show features meaningful conversations with educators, parents, leaders, and community voices who are passionate about helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Each episode explores topics such as education, parenting, student success, leadership, communication, community engagement, and the real-life challenges impacting today’s schools and families. School Home Connection was created to inspire coll