Firefly Tutors TV presents The Buzz - An Education Podcast: Recent Episodes
Firefly Tutors
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today.
A new podcast will be released every Wednesday on YouTube and everywhere you can listen to podcasts.
This weekly podcast will explore topics such as creating courageous learners, understanding your child's school needs, guiding the development of their interpersonal skills, and so much more!
To learn more about Firefly Tutors, find us on the web at FireflyTutors.com.
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Breaking Barriers: Empowering Adolescents with Dyslexia and ADHD with Dr. Ben Powers
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators, and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
In this episode of Firefly Tutors' The Buzz podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of dyslexia and ADHD, examining its profound impact on the social-emotional well-being and career aspirations of adolescents. Dr. Benjamin Powers, a renowned expert in the field, shares his insights, experiences, and strategies to help young individuals overcome these challenges and unlock their full potential. Discover how understanding and addressing these learning differences can empower adolescents, equip them with essential skills, and inspire them to shape their own path to success. Benjamin Powers is the Executive Director at The Southport School and is a practitioner, researcher, and advocate who integrates research and practice to benefit children and adults with reading and attention difficulties.
Key points:
What are the unique social and emotional challenges that adolescents with dyslexia and ADHD face? How do these challenges impact them academically, and their overall well-being and self-esteem?
What behaviors or characteristics can be early indicators that the child may have dyslexia and/or ADHD?
What are some strategies or approaches that can help adolescents with dyslexia and ADHD identify their strengths and passions, ultimately leading to a fulfilling career path?
How can parents, educators, and peers create an inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates their unique abilities and fosters their self-confidence?
What advice do you have for parents or caregivers in terms of fostering resilience, advocating for their child's needs, and promoting their long-term well-being?
What are some other ways dyslexia manifests in learners?
* Best Resources from Dr. Ben Powers.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Exploring Alternative Education: Empowering Parents and Students with Garrett Smiley
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators, and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Garrett Smiley is the Founder and CEO of Sora Schools, an online private middle and high school that's completely revolutionizing how students learn and achieve. Garrett is an innovative educator with a wealth of information on online education, education tech, non-traditional education, the future of education, school choice, student development (personally and academically), skills-based learning, career exploration education, and so much more.
Key points:
What are some important factors to consider when evaluating the effectiveness and quality of a homeschooling or alternative learning program?
What support and resources are available for parents who choose to homeschool their children, particularly in subjects or areas where they may lack expertise such as tutoring?
What are the potential long-term benefits and challenges of alternative education for students, such as college admissions, career readiness, team building, and personal & social growth?
Best Resources from Garrett Smiley.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
"The Homeschooler's Digest: Tracking Educational Developments in California and Beyond" with Jaime Smith
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Jaime Smith has been an educator since 1997, when she began teaching 5th and 6th grade Language Arts at The Harker School in San Jose after earning a B.A. in Linguistics from U.C. Berkeley. Since then, Jaime has earned an M.A. TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and an M.S. Education with an emphasis in eLearning. She has taught
for institutions such as San Jose State University, Cal State East Bay, San Mateo Adult School, and the Art Institute Online, and has trained teachers both locally and internationally. She is also the founder and CEO of OnlineG3.com, a WASC-accredited online Supplementary Education Program.
Key points:
What resources are available to parents in California who are considering homeschooling instead of traditional public schooling?
What are the key advantages and potential challenges of homeschooling in California, and how can parents effectively address them?
How should parents navigate the legal requirements and regulations for homeschooling in California?
What are some successful strategies or approaches to homeschooling that have been implemented by other families in California, and how can parents incorporate them into their own homeschooling journey?
* Best Resources from Jaime Smith.
Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
How ChatGPT is changing the landscape for high school and college students with Melissa Loble
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Melissa Loble has spent 20 years in the educational technology world, working for a number of technology suppliers and educational institutions as well as teaching leadership courses on managing technology for educational change. Melissa earned her M.A. in educational policy from Teachers’ College, Columbia University, and an M.B.A. from the Columbia Business School.
Key points:
How has the introduction of ChatGPT changed the landscape for high school and college students in terms of academic support and learning resources?
How can students effectively utilize ChatGPT to enhance their understanding of complex subjects or improve their writing skills?
What are some practical tips or best practices for students to make the most out of their interactions with ChatGPT? How can they ensure they are using the tool in a productive and responsible manner?
What specific features or functionalities of ChatGPT are particularly beneficial for high school and college students? How can they leverage these features to their advantage?
What are some areas where students should be cautious and seek additional human support or resources rather than relying solely on AI assistance?
What should parents know about AI programs like ChatGPT and how it relates to their child’s education?
*Best Resources from Melissa Loble.
“Why Homeschooling Has Been an Increasingly Popular Option for California Parents
After the Pandemic” with Marlene Dandler
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Marlene Dandler is an entrepreneur, advocate, mother, and the founder and CEO of Seashore Academy. Her work centers around creating a freedom-minded community for those who look for meaningful education options for their children. Founded in 2012, Seashore Academy currently has 4 locations in Southern California and provides high-quality academic options for those who want the flexibility of homeschooling with the environment of a private education.
Key points:
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What factors have contributed to the rising popularity of homeschooling among California parents in the post COVID world?
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What challenges or hurdles do parents typically face when transitioning to homeschooling in California, and how can they navigate through them?
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What resources and support systems are available to California parents who choose homeschooling as an educational pool option for their children?
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Resources from Marlene Dandler.
Reading Challenges: Tips to Encourage a Love for Books and Strengthen Reading Skills” with Kathryn Starke
Welcome to The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Kathryn Starke is a nationally recognized
literacy consultant, reading specialist, former inner-city elementary school teacher, adjunct
professor, author, and founder of an award-winning educational publishing and literacy consulting
company. Starke is the creator of Tackle Reading, an annual philanthropic initiative supported by
the NFL.
Key points:
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What are some effective strategies or tips that parents can use to foster a love for books in their children and strengthen their reading skills?
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Why are some students reluctant to read?
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How can educators and tutors create a positive and supportive environment that encourages students to develop a love for books and improve their reading abilities?
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How can we strike a balance between screen time and reading time? What are some ways to motivate children to choose reading over other activities?
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What resources are out there to help parents determine whether a book will be the right fit for their child? What are some good rules of thumb to follow when helping a child pick out a new book?
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Best Resources from Kathryn Starke.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Eliana Farias spent 7 years as an elementary teacher at Hooper Avenue Elementary in South LA, where she was recognized as Teacher of the Year. She also received recognition and awards for her time spent volunteering as an ESL teacher for the parents within the community. Eliana has worked for the Educare Foundation for over 25 years as a facilitator of personal growth workshops for K-12 students, parents, and staff, where she teaches interpersonal skills, team building, and leadership development. As a mom of two, Eliana has experience with traditional, private, and homeschool education. She is also one of Firefly Tutors outstanding tutors!
Key Points:
- What are some specific strategies that parents can implement to help their children better understand complex ideas by connecting them with real-life situations and experiences?
- What are some takeaways you’d like to share with our listeners from your experiences in Education?
- Resources from Eliana.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today.
Eliana Farias spent 7 years as an elementary teacher at Hooper Avenue Elementary in South LA, where she was recognized as Teacher of the Year. She also received recognition and awards for her time spent volunteering as an ESL teacher for the parents within the community. Eliana has worked for the Educare Foundation for over 25 years as a facilitator of personal growth workshops for K-12 students, parents, and staff, where she teaches interpersonal skills, team building, and leadership development. As a mom of two, Eliana has experience with traditional, private, and homeschool education. She is also one of Firefly Tutors outstanding tutors!
Key Points:
- What are some proven strategies and techniques parents can use to present complex academic concepts to their students in a way that is engaging and easy to understand.
- How can parents balance helping two or more children who may have different learning styles?
- Techniques that parents can adopt to foster critical thinking and self-assessment skills in their children.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today. Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels. The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 United States.
Joe Schmitz is the CEO of Fit Leasing, a private equipment leasing company. He and his wife Char have raised two lovely collegiate daughters who continue to make positive footprints in this world. Joe is a former Board Member of Orangewood Academy.
Key Points include:
- Insight surrounding the benefits and issues with small schools/private K-12th grade schools.
- Contrast what your daughters’ experience in college between a large public state university versus a small private university.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today. Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels. The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 United States.
Joe Schmitz is the CEO of Fit Leasing, a private equipment leasing company. He and his wife Char have raised two lovely collegiate daughters who continue to make positive footprints in this world. Joe is a former Board Member of Orangewood Academy.
Key Points include:
- Due to the cost, private school is not an option for most. Why did you choose private school for your children?
- What did you and your children learn from the college selection/admissions process that could help other parents?
- What social/emotional skills have your daughters learned as students?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Sarah Neal. Sarah is an 8th Grade English Teacher at Kyrene Aprende Middle School in the Kyrene School District just East of Phoenix. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this discussion having taught multiple grades over the course of her career. I’m fortunate to have called Sarah my friend for over 10 years since we worked alongside each other teaching 4th grade for a Title 1 school in Phoenix, AZ.
Key Points of this episode are:
How can parents best work with teachers and their children to create an optimal environment for learning?
How have you incorporated real-world challenges into your lessons when working with gifted students? Why is this such a necessary element to include?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to administrators, educators and parents all across the country about current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Sarah Neal. Sarah is an 8th Grade English Teacher at Kyrene Aprende Middle School in the Kyrene School District just East of Phoenix. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this discussion having taught multiple grades over the course of her career. I’m fortunate to have called Sarah my friend for over 10 years since we worked alongside each other teaching 4th grade for a Title 1 school in Phoenix, AZ.
Key Points of this episode are:
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What strategies can be employed to identify the underlying cause of a gifted student's bored behavior in class?
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How can teachers foster independent learning in students while still providing support to keep them on track?
Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels. The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 United States. Welcome to the podcast Diane Lewis. Thank you for joining me. And who is joining us today?
Marco Clark has been widely respected in education for more than 30 years, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English from the College of the Holy Cross. He earned his Master's degree in Education in Guidance and Counseling from Bowie State University and his Doctoral degree in Education from Creighton University in 2015.
Key Points of this Episode:
What advice would you give to someone looking at other options outside of a college education post high school?
How can tutoring services play a key role in college admissions?
How does the rise of ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence tool that creates writing pieces for students, and other automated generative tools impact the college admissions process?
How can students enroll in Holy Name College?
Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels. The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 United States.
Marco Clark has been widely respected in education for more than 30 years, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English from the College of the Holy Cross. He earned his Master's degree in Education in Guidance and Counseling from Bowie State University and his Doctoral degree in Education from Creighton University in 2015.
Key Points of this Episode:
Are there certain strategies that parents and students should consider when applying?
How relevant are ACT and SAT scores when applying for scholarships?
How important are the ACT and SAT scores in the college admission process?
What factors matter most when deciding which college to attend?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She began tutoring a friend's daughter and within one year, had 21 students from referrals. The best part was that she loved her students as they poured laughter and joy into her heart. Tutoring quickly became Diane's passion and life purpose.
She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels. The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 states.
Key Points Include:
- Why are so many students struggling with Elementary Math?
- What specific trends have you seen with the Math curriculum?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Diane Cutler Lewis is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to helping students reach their highest potential. She began tutoring a friend's daughter and within one year, had 21 students from referrals. The best part was that she loved her students as they poured laughter and joy into her heart. Tutoring quickly became Diane's passion and life purpose.
She founded A+ In Home Tutors in 2003 to promote educational awareness and customized learning for students of all backgrounds and grade levels.The organization has grown to be one of the leading tutoring vendors to many Charter Schools and community partners throughout California. In 2021, Diane launched Firefly Tutors, presented by A+ In Home Tutors, to continue to expand tutoring services with the goal of more positively impacting greater numbers of students in all 50 states.
Key Points Include:
- What struggles do students encounter moving into middle school?
- What are some other causes of academic struggle in students who moved from elementary school up to middle school?
- What solutions have you found to be effective for those students struggling in middle school?
- What can parents do to prepare their child as much ahead of time for this transition?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Podcast guests Kelly Wecker of Cleveland, Ohio, Star Galmore of Jacksonville, FL, Kristyn Strauss of Bellevue Washington, and host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Key Points Include:
- How does one on one learning impact students and can classroom teachers meet the needs of every student?
- How to create courageous learners?
- How to create effective feedback that builds students up?
- How to contribute to a child's confidence instead of fear?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Kelly Wecker of Cleveland, Ohio and host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Our guest is an educator who has dedicated her career to ensuring equity and empowerment for all students. She enjoys interacting with students and their families to ensure the best learning experience possible. She resides in Cleveland, OH, and is an avid reader, and dedicated dog mom.
Highlights include:
- What are some ways parents can get involved in motivating students?
- Do motivational techniques differ depending on the age of the learner?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Kelly Wecker of Cleveland, Ohio and host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Our guest is an educator who has dedicated her career to ensuring equity and empowerment for all students. She enjoys interacting with students and their families to ensure the best learning experience possible. She resides in Cleveland, OH, and is an avid reader, and dedicated dog mom.
Highlights include:
- What is your personal experience with motivating students?
- What subjects do you see students having the hardest time with?
For more info, subscribe to our newsletter, and find us on the web at FireflyTutors.com.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Kristyn Strauss of Bellevue, Washington, and your host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Our guest brings a wealth of teaching and leadership experience. During her previous years teaching at the elementary level, Kristyn was recognized as Teacher of the Year. She is dedicated to helping families and teachers create learning environments where ALL students succeed and discover their true potential.
Highlights include:
- In your personal experience, what have you found to be the top signs a child needs help with schooling?
- What are some options for struggling students?
- How might these signs of struggle look different in a child who is not being challenged enough in his/her academics?
- How can a student go deeper in their learning and understanding?
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Kristyn Strauss of Bellevue Washington and Star Galmore of Raleigh, North Carolina and I am your host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Star Galmore is a certified educator and therapist. A recent school teacher of the year award winner in the state of Florida, she strives to help others reach self-mastery and takes pride in maintaining a high level of professionalism. Star currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina, and enjoys spending time with her family and fur baby chihuahua.
Kristyn Strauss brings a wealth of teaching and leadership experience. During her previous years teaching at the elementary level, Kristyn was recognized as Teacher of the Year in the state of Washington. She is dedicated to helping families and teachers create learning environments where ALL students succeed and discover their true potential.
Highlights include:
- “How important is the growth of interpersonal skills in today’s youth compared to previous generations?”
- How might interpersonal skills differ, say, online compared to face-to-face interactions?
- What should parents consider when teaching their children interpersonal skills for social media…keeping in mind that social media may be uncharted territory for today’s parents?
For more information, subscribe to our newsletter or find us on our website at FireflyTutors.com.
Welcome to “The Buzz” brought to you by Firefly Tutors TV where we talk to educators and parents all across the country on current topics affecting school children today. Welcome to the podcast Kristyn Strauss of Bellevue Washington and Star Galmore of Raleigh, North Carolina and I am your host, Marissa Johnston of Phoenix, Arizona.
Star Galmore is a certified educator and therapist. A recent school teacher of the year award winner in the state of Florida, she strives to help others reach self-mastery and takes pride in maintaining a high level of professionalism. Star currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina, and enjoys spending time with her family and fur baby chihuahua.
Kristyn Strauss brings a wealth of teaching and leadership experience. During her previous years teaching at the elementary level, Kristyn was recognized as Teacher of the Year in the state of Washington. She is dedicated to helping families and teachers create learning environments where ALL students succeed and discover their true potential.
Key Points Include:
- In your experience, how are educators helping develop interpersonal skills in students?
- What can parents do to develop their child’s interpersonal skills?
- What do we do when there's a problem? Do we give up or do we persist?
- What if I want to paint the castle blue and you want to paint it pink? How can we solve this problem?
For more information, subscribe to our newsletter, or find us on the web at FireflyTutors.com