91 episodes

BustED Pencils; Fully Leaded Education Talk is a powerful radio show/podcast dedicated to public education. BustED Pencils is known for its commitment to the hard facts with a humorous twist. Hosts Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci cover the “real” issues in education. The show establishes an alternative space and discusses education reform from an entirely progressive perspective. Our approach is funny, edgy, passionate, witty and gritty and features an array of guests. BustED Pencils explores the political and commercial influences behind education policy. We deliver trending education news without the jargon, and most importantly, we promote a vision of public schools that all children deserve. BustED Pencils appeals to ”your neighbor”—parents, grandparents, guardians, teachers, policymakers, taxpayers and students alike. Listen Live: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

BustED Pencils Civic Media

    • News
    • 5.0 • 2 Ratings

BustED Pencils; Fully Leaded Education Talk is a powerful radio show/podcast dedicated to public education. BustED Pencils is known for its commitment to the hard facts with a humorous twist. Hosts Dr. Tim Slekar and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci cover the “real” issues in education. The show establishes an alternative space and discusses education reform from an entirely progressive perspective. Our approach is funny, edgy, passionate, witty and gritty and features an array of guests. BustED Pencils explores the political and commercial influences behind education policy. We deliver trending education news without the jargon, and most importantly, we promote a vision of public schools that all children deserve. BustED Pencils appeals to ”your neighbor”—parents, grandparents, guardians, teachers, policymakers, taxpayers and students alike. Listen Live: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

    Dr. Kumashiro, Academic Hero

    Dr. Kumashiro, Academic Hero

    In this riveting episode of Busted Pencils, hosts Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci sit down with the esteemed Dr. Kevin Kumashiro, interim dean of the School of Education at Hofstra University, to explore the complex landscape of education in the face of recent legislative changes. Through a deep dive into the implications of Wisconsin's groundbreaking mandate to include Asian American and Hmong American history in K-12 curriculums, Dr. Kumashiro sheds light on the power of education to both challenge and conform to societal norms. Listeners will be inspired by discussions on the potential of education to imagine a world as it ought to be, rather than simply preparing students to succeed in the world as it is. This episode is a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about the future of education in a time of ideological and political struggle.

    • 45 min
    Good news out of Florida???

    Good news out of Florida???

    It's Friday, which means it's time to look back at what we learned this week Busting Pencils. Charter schools, regular talking, education theory, hey, we learned a lot this week!



    Then, there's good news coming out of Florida?? That's new! Remember that word you couldn't say in Florida schools? Well it turns out, you can say gay.

    • 45 min
    Direct From Congress, Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig

    Direct From Congress, Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig

    In this illuminating episode of Busted Pencils, our hosts, Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci, delve into the complex world of charter schools and public education with the insightful Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Western Michigan University. Fresh from his testimony before Congress, Dr. Heilig shares his extensive experience and research on the impact of charter schools, the myths surrounding them, and the importance of equity in education. As we navigate through discussions on the original vision of charter schools, their current realities, and the broader implications for public education, this episode promises to enlighten educators, parents, and policymakers alike. Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the vital role of public education in democracy.

    • 45 min
    Educators, Reunited!

    Educators, Reunited!

    Joanna! Hallie! Tim! Johnny!



    When their powers combine, who knows what can happen! In an era of polarized views on public education, our hosts and guests challenge the binary perspectives dominating the discourse, advocating for a transformative vision that exceeds the status quo and addresses the developmental needs of students and educators alike. From the fascinating insights shared by Teacher Hallie on the fresh perspectives of young adults to the passionate calls for a re-envisioned educational landscape by Teacher Joanna, this episode is a rallying cry for all stakeholders in education to envision and strive for schools as they truly should be.



    Between candid discussions on the personal experiences of educators, including the challenges of taking necessary breaks and the intricate balancing act of teachers' responsibilities, the episode illuminates the deep-seated issues within our current educational system and the collective yearning for a future where schools nurture the holistic development of every student. Through engaging anecdotes and reflective dialogue, our guests underscore the vital importance of integrating contemporary understandings of student needs with the unwavering commitment of educators to create a supportive and enriching learning environment.



    Whether you're an educator, parent, or someone passionate about the future of education, this episode offers a unique blend of personal stories, professional insights, and a forward-looking perspective on how we can collectively contribute to a more inclusive, dynamic, and effective educational system. Join us as we explore the possibilities that lie beyond the conventional, sparking a conversation that challenges listeners to rethink education's role in society and the potential it holds for transformative change.

    • 45 min
    Closing Doors Meant to Open Doors

    Closing Doors Meant to Open Doors

    As the UW system announces that more campuses will be shuttered over the next years, Dr. Tim and Dr. Johnny reflect on the options and pitfalls that lay ahead. Together, they delve into the pressing issues facing higher education today, including a significant decline in FAFSA submissions and the potential closures of colleges due to financial struggles. They explore how these challenges reflect broader questions about the value of higher education, the impact on small communities, and the evolving needs of students in a changing economic landscape. The discussion also touches on the importance of adapting to serve non-traditional students and rethinking the economic model of higher education to ensure it remains accessible and relevant. Through conversations with callers, the episode highlights the complex factors contributing to these trends and the critical need for solutions that support students and institutions alike.

    • 45 min
    Overloaded with Alfie Kohn

    Overloaded with Alfie Kohn

    In this enlightening episode, join Dr. Tim Slecker and Dr. Johnny Lupinacci as they engage with renowned progressive educator Alfie Kohn to dismantle the concept of cognitive load in education. Through a spirited dialogue, Kohn critiques traditional educational methods that prioritize direct instruction and memorization over inquiry-based, progressive learning. This discussion not only challenges conventional wisdom but also offers a fresh perspective on how cognitive load theory has been misapplied to diminish the effectiveness of progressive education approaches.



    Listeners will gain insights into the importance of active learning and how it fosters deeper understanding and long-term retention over rote memorization. Kohn's arguments are supported by a review of educational research, highlighting the benefits of student-centered learning environments that encourage exploration, critical thinking, and meaningful engagement with material. The conversation also touches upon the broader implications of these educational strategies on fostering critical thinkers and the role of educators in facilitating a more nuanced and effective learning experience.



    By the end of the episode, the hosts and Kohn have not only debunked myths surrounding cognitive load theory but also championed the value of embracing complexity in the learning process. This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the future of education, offering practical insights and encouraging a shift towards more engaging, thoughtful, and effective teaching methods.

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2 Ratings

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