Bama Knows Education

Adkins Media Co.
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Arts
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Bama Knows Education, where we explore the rich world of educational choice in Alabama. Join us as we connect with experts, unravel the details of school options, and empower families with valuable insights. At Love Your School Alabama, we believe every family should be able to answer the question “Do you love your school?” with a resounding “Yes! Discover how we celebrate education options, navigate the CHOOSE Tax Credit, sup port special education needs, and guide families from challenges to solutions.

  1. 2d ago

    S2E3 Beyond the Classroom: How Personalized Learning is Changing Student Success

    Summary Education doesn't end when the school bell rings. In Episode 3 of Bama Knows Education, host Sheila Banister sits down with L.J. Walker, Founder and Executive Director of Better Than Average Tutoring, to discuss how personalized learning is helping students thrive across Alabama. L.J. shares his remarkable journey of launching Better Than Average Tutoring at just 16 years old and growing it into one of Alabama's leading tutoring organizations. Together, Sheila and L.J. explore innovative approaches to academic support, the growing demand for individualized learning, and how Alabama's expanding school choice landscape is creating new opportunities for families to find the educational resources that best meet their children's needs. The conversation also highlights the critical role parents play in their children's education, why strong partnerships between families and educators matter, and how tutoring can build both academic confidence and long-term success.  Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate for educational freedom, this episode offers practical insights into how personalized education can empower every student to reach their full potential. Episode Highlights: The foundation and growth of Better Than Average TutoringThe role of entrepreneurship and tutoring in educationSchool choice policies in AlabamaThe importance of parental involvement in educationThe concept of an educational ecosystem About the Guest:  L.J. Walker is the Founder and Executive Director of Better Than Average Tutoring, an award-winning educational organization that has delivered more than 25,000 tutoring sessions and over one million minutes of instruction to students across Alabama. A Montgomery native and graduate of Auburn University at Montgomery, L.J. founded the organization while still in high school with a mission to make high-quality academic support accessible, engaging, and transformative. Under his leadership, Better Than Average Tutoring has earned multiple "Best Tutoring Service" awards, received the 2025 Community Impact Award from the City of Montgomery, and continues to expand educational opportunities for students and families throughout the state.  More on Guest:  Better Than Average Tutoring Phone - 334-802-1315Email - info@betterthanaverage.online More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama WebsiteLove Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe CHOOSE Act

    S2E3 Beyond the Classroom: How Personalized Learning is Changing Student Success

  2. Jul 24

    S2E2: Expanding Educational Freedom - New Federal Tax Credit Program

    Summary School choice is entering a new era—and Alabama is at the center of it. In this episode, Love Your School Director Sheila Banister sits down with Andy Ryan, Executive Director of the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund, to break down the biggest developments shaping educational freedom in Alabama. From the Alabama Accountability Act to the new federal Education Freedom Tax Credit, they explore how these programs are expanding opportunities for families and giving parents more choices than ever before. You'll also hear how innovation, flexibility, and parental empowerment are driving the future of education, along with a clear comparison of Alabama's different school choice options. If you've been wondering what the new federal Education Freedom Tax Credit means for students and families, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Keywords school choice, Alabama Accountability Act, Education Freedom Tax Credit, homeschooling, educational innovation, parental empowerment, public and private schools, micro schools, scholarships  Key  topics Alabama Accountability Act overview and impactIntroduction of the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC)Stackable scholarships and program flexibilityRole of donors and tax credits in fundingPublic school participation and innovationSupport for homeschool families and special needs studentsFuture outlook and policy considerations Guest: Andy Ryan  Resources Alabama Accountability Act - https://www.alsde.eduEducation Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC) - https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5376Love Your School Alabama - Special Needs Guidebook - https://loveyourschoolalabama.org/alabama  Guest links https://www.alabamascholarshipfund.org/

    S2E2: Expanding Educational Freedom - New Federal Tax Credit Program

  3. Jul 1

    S2E1: Celebrating Education Freedom in Alabama

    Season 2 of Bama Knows Education kicks off celebrating our nation's 250th birthday of independence. Each episode, Sheila will explore how education freedom aligns with the Founding Fathers' vision of the the pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness.  In this episode, Sheila Banister and Stephanie Smith discuss the foundational principles of American liberty, the importance of educational freedom, and the evolution of school choice policies in Alabama. They explore how these ideas align with the founding fathers' views and the future of education reform. Founding principles and individual rightsHistorical perspective on education and libertySchool choice policies and programs in AlabamaImpact of COVID-19 and technology on homeschoolingAccountability and funding in education More on Alabama Policy Institute: Alabama Policy Institute WebsiteMore on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe CHOOSE Act

    S2E1: Celebrating Education Freedom in Alabama

  4. 01/21/2025

    Building Community One Student at a Time: A Closer Look at Build Up with James Thornton

    In this episode of Bama Knows Education, James Thornton, the Community, Engagement and Outreach Coordinator for Build Up Community School, joins us to discuss the school's innovative approach to education. Build Up focuses on providing students with multiple pathways to success, including workforce development training, internships, and home ownership opportunities.  James explains the importance of community involvement and the school's commitment to preparing students for real-world challenges regardless of the path they choose post high school. One of the key components of the school mission is to prepare students to be self-sufficient as they teach students not only how to prepare for a future profession, but also to be home owners and how to build generational wealth. If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others passionate about education in Alabama! Episode Highlights: Build Up Community School offers multiple pathways to success beyond traditional college tracks.Home ownership education is a key component of the school's missionInternships provide students with hands-on experienceSmall class sizes allow for personalized education and attention.Build Up is looking towards future growth to provide more opportunities for students and their families More on Guest:  Build Up Community SchoolBuildUP InstagramBuildUP Facebook More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe CHOOSE Act

  5. 01/06/2025

    18. The Power of Montessori Education: A Conversation with Courtney Davis

    In this episode of Bama Knows Education, we’re joined by Courtney Davis, founder of Urban Community Montessori (UCM) in Birmingham, Alabama. Courtney shares her passion for promoting accessible and affordable Montessori education and her work to build a pipeline for Black and Brown Montessorians through partnerships with local non-profits. Courtney discusses UCM’s mission to educate the community about Montessori’s benefits, train skilled Montessori guides, and create a safe, inclusive environment where children can grow in intellect, compassion, and independence. With a focus on equity and accessibility, UCM is shaping the next generation of leaders to thrive and positively impact the world. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about equity, education, and creating opportunities for all children in Birmingham! Episode Highlights: What is Montessori Education?Urban Community Montessori What a Day Looks Like at UCMLong-Term Goals for UCM  More on Guest:  Urban Community Montessori UCM Instagram UCM Facebook  More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe CHOOSE Act CHOOSE Act Application Portal

  6. 12/26/2024

    Special Episode: Big Things Happening in 2025!

    Welcome to a special episode of Bama Knows Education! We’re thrilled to share some exciting updates as we look ahead to 2025. First, mark your calendars because the Choose Act portal officially opens on January 2nd, providing families in Alabama with access to valuable resources and funding opportunities. Additionally, we’re excited to announce that Love Your School is a co-sponsor of the Alabama Choice Summit, taking place on January 30-31. This summit promises to be a powerful event, bringing together leaders, educators, and families to discuss the future of education in our state. In this episode, we’re joined by two incredible guests. Nathan Sanders from EdChoice shares his expertise on school choice, its impact on families, and how this movement is creating more opportunities for students. We also have Dr. Josh Bowar from the Center for the Advancement of Christian Education, who provides insight into the growing opportunities for Christian education and strategies to expand access and excellence in faith-based schools. Tune in to learn more about the Choose Act and the Alabama Choice Summit and how these initiatives are transforming education for families across Alabama. This is an inspiring and informative episode you won’t want to miss as we kick off 2025 with hope, resources and a shared commitment to improving education for all students. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others passionate about education. For more information, visit Love Your School and stay connected for updates on the Choose Act and the Alabama Choice Summit! Episode Highlights: The Choose Act Portal is Opening!All about The Alabama Choice Summit FAQ’s Conference Agenda  More on Guests/Links from this Episode:  Register for the Alabama Choice Summit!EdChoiceCenter for the Advancement of Christian Education  More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe Choose Act

  7. 12/09/2024

    16. Making Homeschooling Work for Your Family: Insights from Liberty Evanko

    In this episode of Bama Knows Education, we sit down with Liberty Evanko, a homeschooling mother of four from Alabama, who shares her journey of creating a personalized education experience for her children. Liberty and her husband work together to homeschool their kids, including one son who is twice exceptional. She offers practical advice for parents considering homeschooling, emphasizing the importance of making it work for both you and your children. Liberty also discusses the benefits of homeschool co-ops, which provide community and resources for families, and breaks down what standardized testing looks like for homeschool students in Alabama. Additionally, she sheds light on school choice legislation and how it empowers parents to explore alternative education options for their children. Whether you’re a parent exploring homeschooling, interested in school choice, or simply curious about the educational landscape in Alabama, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice. Tune in to learn how Liberty and her family have embraced the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling. If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others passionate about education in Alabama! Episode Highlights: Understanding School Choice Options in AlabamaHomeschooling: A Flexible Approach to EducationThe Role of Homeschool Co-ops: Community and Support for FamiliesDemystifying Testing for Homeschool Students in AlabamaNavigating School Choice Legislation: What Parents Need to Know More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama XThe Choose Act

  8. 11/25/2024

    15. Transforming Alabama’s Education System: A Conversation with Rep. Susan DuBose

    In this episode, we sit down with Alabama Representative Susan DuBose, who represents District 45, and is a passionate advocate for education reform and school choice. Susan is dedicated to empowering parents to make decisions about their children’s education and improving Alabama’s historically low rankings in education. She supports legislation that prioritizes school choice, aims to keep divisive ideologies like Critical Race Theory out of classrooms, and advocates for expanded vocational and technical training opportunities in high schools. Susan also discusses her work at both the state and national levels, including her involvement in a pro-school choice alliance and her advocacy for the CHOOSE Act. She highlights how these efforts focus on giving families better access to quality education and building partnerships with businesses to prepare students for the workforce. Tune in to hear Susan’s vision for transforming education in Alabama and the steps she’s taking to ensure a brighter future for every child. Episode Highlights: All about Susan DuBose Advocating for School Choice The Choose Act School Funding Policies that Susan DuBose Stands For  More on Guest:  Visit Susan DuBose’s WebsiteSusan DuBose's FacebookSusan DuBose's InstagramSusan DuBose's TwitterSusan DuBose's LinkedIn More on Bama Knows Education/Links Mentioned in Episode: The Choose Act Love Your School Alabama Website Love Your School Alabama Instagram Love Your School Alabama FacebookLove Your School Alabama X

See All (23)

Trailer

About

Welcome to Bama Knows Education, where we explore the rich world of educational choice in Alabama. Join us as we connect with experts, unravel the details of school options, and empower families with valuable insights. At Love Your School Alabama, we believe every family should be able to answer the question “Do you love your school?” with a resounding “Yes! Discover how we celebrate education options, navigate the CHOOSE Tax Credit, sup port special education needs, and guide families from challenges to solutions.

Information

  • Creator
    Adkins Media Co.
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bama Knows Education
  • Show Website
    Bama Knows Education