Education Matters With MySchoolOptions

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Education Matters is a podcast that explores the journey of Indiana's families in making school choice decisions. The podcast covers the landscape of K-12 education in Indiana and aims to give a voice to innovative school leaders, parents, and stakeholders in the school choice community. The podcast will feature stories from parents, community builders, policymakers, and educators, providing insights into the impact of school choice on children's education. 

  1. Advancing Non Public Education in Indiana with James McNeany

    NOV 6

    Advancing Non Public Education in Indiana with James McNeany

    In this engaging episode, Sarah and Cesar welcome James McNeany, a lifelong educator and the new Executive Director of the Indiana Non Public Education Association (INPEA). James shares his journey from math teacher and coach to principal and, now, state-level leader for non public schools. The discussion dives deep into topics like school choice, parent empowerment, and how non public schools contribute to Indiana’s education ecosystem. Key Takeaways: James’s Path in Education: From engineering student at Purdue to math teacher, coach, and school administrator, James’s nontraditional journey revealed a passion for mentoring young people and making a difference in their lives. Leadership Lessons: James reflects on how each step in his career—from teaching students with diverse backgrounds to leading entire school communities—shaped his perspective on what great schools need to thrive. INPEA's Mission & Vision: Taking the helm at INPEA, James shares his excitement for supporting Indiana’s non public schools, building on the legacy of previous leaders, and working to ensure school choice policies benefit all families. The Role of Non Public Schools: Spotlight on how these schools give parents the ability to find the right educational fit, create strong communities, and support missions and values that reflect diverse family needs. Universal School Choice in Indiana: What it means for families and schools after recent legislation, and how financial barriers are being reduced so all families can access quality education options. Future Challenges & Opportunities: James discusses the importance of protecting local autonomy for non public schools, guarding against overregulation, and expanding real choice for families—especially in Indiana’s “education deserts.” Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and your school choice options, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    33 min
  2. Bonus Episode: A Snapshot of Choice

    OCT 23

    Bonus Episode: A Snapshot of Choice

    In this special bonus episode, Cesar and Sarah dives deep into the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, exploring its evolution, impact, and what the future holds for private school participation in Indiana. This episode breaks down the latest 2025 Choice Report from the Indiana Department of Education, providing insights into how school choice is shaping educational opportunities and equity across the state. Key Takeaways: Historical Evolution of School Choice in Indiana Indiana’s journey to educational freedom, beginning with the first charter school law in 2001, major reforms in 2008 that enabled public-to-public school transfers, the introduction of tax credit scholarships and vouchers for private schools, and recent expansions to universal eligibility. The Choice Scholarship Program: Opening Doors Impact on Hoosier families, making private school education accessible to more students. How expansions have progressively reduced barriers, especially income requirements, paving the way for nearly universal eligibility by the 2026–27 school year. By the Numbers: School Choice Participation Enrollment breakdown: ~80% of students attend their assigned traditional public school. 20% participate in some form of school choice (public-to-public transfers, charter, innovation network, or private schools). Largest group: ~95,000 students using public-to-public transfer. Private school choice: 8% overall, 6% using vouchers (~74,741 students). Growth in private school enrollment—steady increase of ~5,000 students per year. Who is Participating? Spotlight on demographics and financial background: Average participating family size is about 4.6 people. Average family income: just under $100,000. Majority white, split evenly male/female, with strong representation from other ethnicities. Higher participation at elementary levels (K-5). Average voucher received: ~$6,000; average private school tuition: just under $8,000. Geographical Trends Highest choice participation in metropolitan/suburban areas due to more available options (private and charter schools). Some rural/small-town counties have limited or no private schools, affecting participation. Looking Forward The imminent shift to universal school choice and its potential implications. Challenges in expanding access to options in underserved areas. Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    17 min

  3. OCT 9

    Putting Families First: Inside Indiana’s ESA and CSA Program Success

    On this episode, Cesar and Sarah sit down with Indiana State Treasurer Daniel Elliott. Daniel isn’t just the man who oversees $16 billion of Hoosier funds—he’s also a passionate advocate for school choice, a dad of four, a former software engineer, and a true Hoosier at heart. Daniel shares his personal journey from growing up in rural Jennings County to public service, his family’s diverse education choices, and his strong belief that parents know their kids best. The focus turns to Indiana’s innovative Education Scholarship Account (ESA) and Career Scholarship Account (CSA) programs. Daniel explains why he believes the Treasurer’s Office is best equipped to manage these programs instead of the Department of Education. He highlights the office’s record of efficiency (including reducing payment processing times from 45 days to just 3 days), significant cost savings, and a parent-centric, flexible approach hailed as the “gold standard” nationwide. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear real stories about how school choice options—homeschool, charter, public—have benefited Daniel’s own children, and powerful testimonials about ESA’s impact on special needs students. Daniel also addresses recent legislative proposals to move ESA/CSA program oversight, raising concerns about the possible loss of personalized service and program flexibility if transferred to a larger bureaucracy. Key Takeaways: Daniel Elliott’s Background:Growing up in Southern Indiana, being first in his family to attend college, and his move from IT to public service. School Choice Journey:The Elliott family's hands-on experiences with public school, homeschool, and charter schools for their four children. Inside Indiana’s ESA & CSA Programs: What the programs offer (customized education funding for special needs students and career/apprenticeship pathways). Why the Treasurer’s Office administers these programs, not the Department of Education. Dramatic improvements in efficiency, provider options, and direct, responsive service to families. Parent-Centric Approach:How Daniel’s team listens to parents and adapts the programs to fit real needs—plus why this nimble, small-business style model works better than traditional bureaucracy. Advocacy and Legislative Concerns:The potential risk to families if ESA/CSA oversight moves to a larger agency, and Daniel’s appeal for lawmakers to keep the program where it is. How Listeners Can Help: Parents: Share feedback and personal success stories with officials. All: Reach out to Indiana lawmakers to support school choice and the Treasurer’s Office’s continued oversight. Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    36 min
  4. Celebrating Indiana’s Literacy Gains: Greg Harrell Talks IREAD Scores & the Future of School Choice

    SEP 19

    Celebrating Indiana’s Literacy Gains: Greg Harrell Talks IREAD Scores & the Future of School Choice

    In this episode, Sarah welcomes Greg Harrell, the newest addition to the IQE/MSO team, for his podcast debut. Greg shares his background in public service, education, and government, and provides an in-depth look at the recently released 2025 IREAD scores—Indiana’s critical assessment for third-grade literacy. Together, they discuss the state’s post-pandemic progress, key education policy priorities, and the strong results from Indiana’s non-public schools.Key Takeaways: Meet Greg Harrell: Greg’s roots in southern Indiana, his career path from state government to education advocacy, and his passion for policy and school choice. What is IREAD? Overview of Indiana’s IREAD test for third graders: Origins, purpose, and why it matters. The evolution of the assessment since its 2013 implementation. The 2025 IREAD Results: Statewide increase: Over 87% of third graders passed, hitting pre-pandemic levels. Record gains: Largest year-over-year improvement since the test’s creation, with about 6,000 more students passing compared to last year. Non-public schools shine: 96% proficiency rate for Indiana’s private schools. Factors Driving Improvement: $170 million invested since 2022 in literacy initiatives (public and philanthropic funding, including from Lilly Endowment). Earlier identification and support: Second graders now take IREAD, helping educators identify and assist struggling students sooner. Looking Forward: The Department of Education’s ambitious goal: 95% of third graders passing IREAD by 2027. Ongoing policy priorities: Defending school choice, reducing unnecessary regulation, and tweaking programs for better outcomes in the 2026 legislative session. Why School Choice Matters: Greg’s personal perspective on the evolution and importance of educational choice in Indiana. The alignment between K-12 and higher education in empowering families and students with options. Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    18 min
  5. Empowering Parents: Navigating Indiana School Choice

    SEP 5

    Empowering Parents: Navigating Indiana School Choice

    In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Kim Graham, Director of Organizing and Partnerships at EmpowerED Families, to unpack what school choice looks like across Indiana—and how families can make the most of it. With over two decades of experience as an educator, advocate, and mom, Kim shares how families can navigate Indiana’s evolving K–12 landscape, from understanding new high school diploma options to partnering effectively with schools. She also highlights the importance of asking the right questions, staying engaged, and knowing what resources are available to help families find the best educational fit. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or advocate, this conversation offers practical insights on how informed families help drive student success. Key Takeaways: 🔑 Parents are essential partners in their child’s education—and their voice matters. 📚 Indiana’s school landscape is changing, with new diploma pathways and expanded choice options. 💬 Knowing what to ask schools helps families make better, more informed decisions. 🌟 When families are engaged, schools and communities benefit. 🎧 This episode is packed with real-world advice for navigating school choice and ensuring every Indiana student has an opportunity to thrive. 🔗 Discover how Indiana’s school choice options can work for your family at myschooloptions.orgDid you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    52 min
  6. From Scholarship to Scholar: Daion Daniels’ Story

    AUG 22

    From Scholarship to Scholar: Daion Daniels’ Story

    In this inspiring episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Indianapolis native and rising education reform leader, Daion L. Daniels. His journey from a low‑income public school student to earning a PhD in Education Policy is proof of what’s possible when students have access to the right educational fit. Daion’s story begins in Indiana’s public schools, where he often felt academically unchallenged. That changed when his mother discovered the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, opening the door to a college‑prep Catholic high school. The academic rigor, supportive environment, and faith‑based values he encountered there set him on a path to college, advanced research, and a career in shaping education policy at the state and national level. Now, as the youngest ever PhD graduate from the University of Arkansas’ Department of Education Reform, Daion researches how private school choice impacts civic engagement, political tolerance, and long‑term student success. His work directly informs policymakers, helping states design programs that expand opportunity, strengthen civic life, and deliver measurable results for students. 🎧 More than just a personal success story, this episode is about how thoughtful policy—grounded in real‑world experience—can transform both individual lives and the future of education. Key Takeaways: Educational Access Changes Trajectories: How a voucher opened the door to academic challenge, supportive mentors, and future leadership. Policy Grounded in Experience: Why Daion’s firsthand journey makes his research especially powerful for lawmakers and advocates. Civic Engagement & Open‑Mindedness: Insights from his studies on how private and faith‑based schools prepare students for democratic life. Indiana as a Policy Model: How Indiana’s evolution from income‑limited vouchers to universal school choice offers lessons for other states. Looking Ahead: Daion’s vision for increasing capacity, transparency, and opportunity in education policy. Whether you’re a parent, educator, policymaker, or advocate, this conversation will deepen your understanding of why educational freedom matters—and how policy leadership can make it a reality for every child. 🔗 Discover how Indiana’s school choice options can work for your family at myschooloptions.orgDid you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    33 min
  7. Breaking Down Indiana’s Latest ILEARN Test Results

    AUG 8

    Breaking Down Indiana’s Latest ILEARN Test Results

    In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Sarah Milligan and Cesar Roman break down the newly released 2025 ILEARN test scores—what they reveal, why they matter, and how parents can use them to make informed school choices for their children. ILEARN, Indiana’s statewide assessment, measures how well students are meeting state academic standards in English Language Arts (ELA), math, science, and social studies. The 2025 results show encouraging progress in math proficiency, with 42.1% of students meeting the mark—a steady climb since 2021. ELA scores, however, remained largely unchanged at 40.6% proficiency. In fact, 7th and 8th grade performance slipped slightly, signaling ongoing challenges in middle school literacy development. The Indiana Department of Education is also rolling out a new “through-year” ILEARN model beginning in 2025–26, which will include checkpoints in the fall, winter, and spring to give families and educators more actionable data throughout the year. Key Takeaways: Math scores are on the rise across all grade levels—8th grade saw the biggest jump. ELA remains flat overall, with declines in 7th and 8th grade performance. Subgroup success stories: Special education, low-income, Black, and Hispanic students are making important gains. Through-year testing will provide families with real-time insight into student progress. Parents have options: Use ILEARN data alongside your instincts to explore public, charter, private, online, or hybrid school options. 🎧 Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or policymaker, this episode equips you with the knowledge to interpret ILEARN scores and use them as a tool for finding the right educational fit for your child. 🔗 Discover how Indiana’s school choice options can work for your family at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    10 min
  8. Empowered by Options: One Mom’s Education Story

    JUL 25

    Empowered by Options: One Mom’s Education Story

    In this powerful episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Indiana parent and advocate, Talisha Evans, to hear how one family's determination—and Indiana’s school choice programs—helped her son transform from struggling to thriving. Talisha’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. From a surprise pregnancy after a cancer diagnosis to navigating confusing diagnoses, classroom challenges, and school changes, Talisha shares her hard-won wisdom with courage and clarity. Despite setbacks—including schools that dismissed her concerns and an IEP that didn’t deliver—Talisha refused to give up. Her search led her to a specialized school for students with autism, and ultimately to the Indiana Choice Scholarship and Education Scholarship Account (ESA) programs that made it all possible. 🎧 This is more than a story about school choice—it’s about fighting for your child and finding hope in the most unexpected places. Key Takeaways: The Power of Persistence: Talisha’s story proves parents know their kids best—and must advocate boldly when something feels off. IEPs Aren’t Enough Alone: Real change came not from paperwork, but from a school that truly understood and supported Aiden. Choice Scholarship & ESA Access: Learn how Indiana's programs helped Talisha afford a school designed specifically for her son’s needs. A System for All Students: Talisha reminds listeners that school choice isn’t just for children with special needs—her other children also benefit from customized options. From Isolation to Inclusion: Aiden’s transformation includes making real friends, building confidence, and even being honored by the Indiana Pacers. 🔗 Discover how Indiana’s school choice options can work for your family at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

    32 min
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Education Matters is a podcast that explores the journey of Indiana's families in making school choice decisions. The podcast covers the landscape of K-12 education in Indiana and aims to give a voice to innovative school leaders, parents, and stakeholders in the school choice community. The podcast will feature stories from parents, community builders, policymakers, and educators, providing insights into the impact of school choice on children's education. 

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