Let's Do Education Together in Cherokee County: Recent Episodes
Sean G. Kaufman | 5th District and Candidate for Cherokee County School Board
Featuring Sean Kaufman, Woodstock Resident and Candidate for District 5 Cherokee County School Board.
Many parents today feel disconnected from the education system. With a great deal of trust, they send their kids to teachers who may feel unheard, be under resourced, or worse - be asked to teach curriculum in which they may be concerned about.
As a proud Woodstock parent of three, I announced my candidacy and started a run for the District 5 Cherokee County School Board position. I have been shocked at just how little I knew - how much trust I was putting in the system - and how our children and teachers must be supported and heard during this very challenging times.
Join me as I aim to gain your trust, share lessons learned from the campaign trail, and bring guests onto the show - giving parents a true idea of what is happening Cherokee County public schools.
In this podcast, I discuss the election results from May 24th. I received over 2,500 votes which was enough for us to make it to Round 2 - a runoff against Erin Ragsdale. I thank Dr. Richards for his support and will be meeting with him this week - hoping to earn the trust of his voters - as together we can win this election. Please go and vote on June 21st - and if you cannot make that day - please vote early starting the week of June 13th.
In this podcast, my oldest son joins me to discuss one of our favorite graduation presents he received - letters from his teachers going all the way back to Kindergarten at Woodstock Elementary. We also talk about losing the Hope Scholarship and discuss our feelings towards teachers in this family.
A special thank you to all the teachers who have blessed our children and family! Thank you - thank you - thank you. We are Woodstock!
In this podcast, I summarize the May 19th CCSD School Board Meeting. I start with how my son and I were doxxed (search for and publish private or identifying information about a particular individual on the internet, typically with malicious intent), share his speech to the school board, discuss a conversation with Mike McGowan about something he said at the all principals meeting which may have been taken out of context, and the sad state of affairs that so many have misled our children to believe there are people wanting to ban books in Cherokee County. Politics doesn't have to be this way.
When you cannot win on the issues - you start attacking the person.
In this podcast, I make my final plea to the teachers of Cherokee County. Many of the teachers have told me that they are intimidated by leadership, that salaries are lower than neighboring counties, awards are unfairly distributed, that teachers have to work excessive hours after work - feeling they are not respected as professionals, and that they are micromanaged. The SEL programs at CCSD is crap - and I say that three or four times - we can do so much better.
I love this county. I love our teachers. I love our schools. That is a fact. I just know we can do better than what we are doing today. If you agree with me, please vote for me. Whatever you do, please vote for the candidate which represents you the most.
In this podcast, I discuss and provide the reasons for developing my pledge to all Cherokee County Teachers. The three reasons I made this pledge are:
- I want to thank the teachers which had a direct impact on both my sons.
- I want to ask all teachers for their vote.
- Regardless if I have your vote - I want all teachers to know I will serve you.
If you are not happy with the administration and the school board - and you want change - the power is in your vote.
**There are four candidates who can bring change with the goal of making Cherokee County School District the best in the State of Georgia.
Vote for Cam Waters in District 3, Chris Gregory in District 4, Sean Kaufman in District 5 and Dr. Ray Lynch in District 6.**
In this podcast, I share my experience as a teacher in the university system. Starting at San Diego State University, I have also taught at the University of Phoenix and Emory University. Currently, I teach three classes at Kennesaw State University.
The theory of pedagogy is not being taught in Cherokee County Schools. It has been integrated. Theories are useless unless they are integrated to get evidence-based results. Critical Race Theory - as a theory - is not being taught in Cherokee County Schools. However, just as the pedagogical theory is used to guide classroom instruction - the tenants of Critical Race Theory have been injected through books and third-party assignments.
**We cannot keep fighting over semantics of whether the actual theory is being taught. Teaching theory is different than implementing the constructs of theory.
The tenants of Critical Race Theory are in Cherokee County Schools and there is much evidence to prove that. We must pay attention to this fact.**
In this podcast, our son - a senior at Woodstock High School discusses a disturbing event. Aiden received an assignment which made him feel uncomfortable. He reported it to me (his father) - who wrote an email asking the teacher why the assignment was not posted on Canvas. I then posted the assignment on my campaign page - not identifying the teacher - and stating it was an inappropriate assignment.
Listen in as Aiden discusses the assignment, how it made him feel, what happened the next day as he was publicly retaliated against for my behavior, dismissed from class, and whether he would continue to report future assignments in this class to his parents as a result of the teachers actions.
Parents should have FULL access to all materials and assignments teachers provide to students in public schools. If teachers don't post assignments - parents cannot review the assignment or protect their children from inappropriate assignments.
In this podcast, I respond to 80 pages of email communication released from a CCSD staff member. To be honest, I think the intent was to embarrass me - but quite the contrary. I have discussed most of these issues in previous podcasts and am very proud that I am a parent who challenges inappropriate assignments, teachers not posting these assignments on Canvas and requesting all data specific to Panorama Education surveys (questions and answers) so that I as a parent have access to data on my children.
Listen in to this podcast and join us tomorrow - as Aiden discusses exactly what happened in class specific to his public dismissal. Even though the release of these emails is completely unethical, immoral, and possibly illegal - I thank those responsible for demonstrating just how committed I am to protecting children in CCSD.
In this podcast, I share a hypothetical situation - a genie comes and grants me three wishes for our CCSD schools. I discuss the following three wishes:
- Modify our curriculum to include trade skills and increase pride, unity, and hope in our students.
- Increase parental involvement in our children's assignments. Rather than focusing on psychosocial issues in our children - ask a parent what they did after the failed? Ask a child to go home, engage their parents in their assignments, and get them as involved in the classroom as they are on the football, soccer, lacrosse, and baseball fields.
- Stop the passing and/or placing of students who are not performing at acceptable levels. When you place a 4th grader who is behind in 5th grade - the gaps by the time they are in 10th grade will be too much to come back from. We must identify students who are not performing, serve them, and expect them achieve appropriate levels before advancing in our schools.
Genies don't exist. But hope does. Just a fun podcast dreaming of what I would hope in our CCSD schools.
In this podcast, I feature Cliff who has been a bus driver for over 25-years in Cobb County. He reflects on his experience over the years with the children he has served. Cliff draws on the following experiences:
- Writing level of students specific to letters he received.
- Papers which were left behind demonstrating lower learning levels than what has been seen in the past.
- Discuss behaviors and attitudes of children who are being asked to behave when misbehaving.
- The public display of affection - children kissing and groping each other on school property.
In this podcast, I interview Ray Lynch who is the #4CanDoMore Candidate for District 6 in Cherokee County. Join us for this conversation as I ask him the following questions:
- Will school taxes drop with the 1.5 mill reduction proposed by the Superintendent?
- Does social emotional learning (SEL) prevent bullying of students?
- How can you address vaping in our schools as a school board member?
- What is your role as a school board member in assuring age appropriate access to books in CCSD?
- How do the State Standards of Excellence filter through the system to curriculum to students?
- How can you be dangerous and wrong extremist?
- Is Cherokee High School in the top 10% of Georgia High Schools?
In this podcast, I remind listeners of the important stances I am taking during my run in this campaign. As we move closer to the end of this race - the mud will start flying. As it does, I will continue to respond using this podcast and all other social media channels - but I believe there are over 60 podcasts which demonstrate where I have stood and where I stand today.
Please get to know your candidates. Please let your voices be heard. Please vote on May 24th.
It is teacher appreciation week! In this podcast, I celebrate our teachers - thanking them for the differences they make in our children, the personal sacrifices made as a teacher, and for being a huge part of our legacy as parents in our children's lives.
Words will never express the gratitude we have for the differences made in and gifts given to our children.
In this podcast, I feature Josh Clark who a proven conservative running as a candidate for the United States Senate. I have met him several times, he is genuine, he is committed, and he has a proven track record of service! Josh answers the following questions:
- Why are you running for office?
- On your website you say Proven Conservative, what does that mean?
- What about the Herschel factor in this race?
- Any final comments you want to share?
In this podcast, Paul Lott (President and Founder of the National Society for the Advancement of Black Americans) continues discussing how stereotypes are baked into our media. In Part 4 - Paul discusses:
- Racism is not natural - tribalism is.
- The benefits of institutionalizing racism.
- How blacks from other countries suffer no racial effects in America.
- The important role of family in education.
- Strategies for increasing long-term retention
- Problems with teaching critical thinking strategies
In this podcast, Paul Lott (President and Founder of the National Society for the Advancement of Black Americans) continues discussing education and the concept of passing versus placing. In Part 3 - Paul discusses:
- Systematic racism
- Defines Critical Theory and Critical Race Theory (CRT)
- Antiracism is the remedy for Systemic Racism and White Privilege
- Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is Implemented Using CRT Ideologies
- Equity is not a natural construct. Equity of outcomes goes against science and nature. If parents cannot even ensure equity of outcomes for their children - it is not possible for us to do it for 30 kids in the classroom.
- No such thing as universal success.
- 90% of those who are jailed do not read at appropriate levels - and the consequences of being illiterate is criminal.
- Reading Rigor should be the number one priority.
- Race has no role in the issues happening in America.
In this podcast, Paul Lott (President and Founder of the National Society for the Advancement of Black Americans) continues discussing the "poor in place" concept. In Part 2 - Paul discusses:
- Systematic Poverty
- Why education has not corrected the issues associated with this issue.
- The effects of "vocabulary gap" on success.
- Studies which promote increased linguistic stimulation.
- Neuroscience of reduced stimulation at home and the impact on educational success.
- Success Academic in New York State which promotes reading rigor from K-12.
- How critical vocabulary is for student success.
- The need for commercialized education.
In this podcast, I introduce Paul Lott - a technical professional, trainer, and author who lives in the Baltimore and Washington DC area. He is the President and Founder of the National Society for the Advancement of Black Americans.
This is a four part series where Paul discusses his fight against Critical Race Theory (CRT) using data and science. In Part 1 - Paul discusses:
- Evidence demonstrating systematic racism DOES NOT exist in the United States.
- Every major racial group in the country has seen improvement in eliminating poverty with exception to white communities.
- There is no advantage to being white in America today - in fact - it is an economic disadvantage.
- Why do people perceive that blacks are in a dire situation?
- Most blacks aren't poor or live in dangerous neighborhoods.
- In the same places where blacks are doing poorly - whites are actually doing worse.
- Failure is an issue of poverty not race.
- Most wealth in this country is created by your home value. Two things which control the value of your home - safe streets and good schools. The wealth gap is the result of violent - undereducated communities.
- Historical reasons for the poverty clusters in black communities.
In this podcast, I summarize the April Board Meeting and how CCSD is in full crisis mode leading them to deceive the community with multiple lies.
Two well known strategies in politics to get votes - 1) give people money, and 2) cut taxes.
Both were announced this evening - teachers and staff will get a well-deserved raise and school taxes will be cut. In addition to schools being closed for the primary election (during finals week) - CCSD pushes lies about banning books, our team wanting to lose our accreditation, and that the 4CanDoMore team doesn't have a plan.
CCSD is in full crisis. Change is coming and we have a game plan. Our plan is to return to reading, writing, and arithmetic. Our plan is to give teachers more time with students. Our plan encourages parental engagement.
Those who have become comfortable are now concerned. That is what I witnessed tonight - CCSD is on FIRE.
In this podcast, I interview social emotional learning (SEL) subject matter expert Dr. Lisa Babbage. In this interview, she discusses what SEL programs are, how they were developed, the risks associated with SEL programs, and what parents can do to protect their kids from a clear government overreach.
Dr. Lisa Babbage is an author of a book titled No So Cookie Cutter Kids: 25 Reflections of Classroom Observations. She recommends this book for parents, teachers, and school administrators.
In this podcast, I discuss a personal pledge. As a candidate, I felt is was important for me to knock on every door in my neighborhood - Towne Lake Hills East. I wanted the chance to meet all my neighbors - the ones who would want to support me and the ones who would not want to support me. I share my stories - those of hate and love.
I know many excuse behaviors of hate and intolerance as par for the course for politicians. There have been moments of hatred - but also stories of love. Bottles of water, debates ending in hugs, and even prayer.
I thought I would share with others the experiences I have had when visiting my neighbors in Towne Lake Hills East.
In this podcast, I discuss the CCSD Fact versus Fiction release on sexually explicit, obscene, and pornographic material in our school libraries and how rather than this being a fact sheet - it is a piece of propaganda designed to keep parents in a state of complacency. When parents are concerned about obscene, sexually explicit, and pornographic material being found in school libraries - focusing on what is right versus who is right should be the goal.
So what is right in this case? I believe children should not have access to obscene, sexually explicit, and/or pornographic books in our school libraries - without parental consent. Controls can be implemented and parents can be included in the solution.
In this podcast, Suzanne Phillips the co-founder and leader at Beacon Life discusses the 7 spheres of culture and how it impacts our family through education; what parents need to know about curriculum today, and what parents can do NOW to protect their children.
Go to www.beacon-life.orgfor more information and what you can do as a parent to get involved.
In this podcast, I have a conversation with Chelle Brown - known locally as "the Mom" who went viral at the last Cherokee County School Board meeting for addressing pornography in our schools.
Chelle joins me and discusses the books found in school libraries, the obscenity laws which protects these books, what can be done if these books are identified, how the current school board as responded to this issue, and what parents can do right now to join the fight.
In this podcast, I provide several questions which voters should ask CCSD leaders.
- Did you attempt to hire a CRT advocate? Did the CCSD Board vote 7-0 to hire this person?
- Did CCSD hire Panorama Education to evaluate our children on their social competence? Did CCSD share the results with parents?
- Do we have pornography - defined as - printed or visual material containing the explicit description or display of sexual organs or activity, intended to stimulate erotic rather than aesthetic or emotional feelings - in our school libraries? Do these materials highlight rape, incest, and pedophilia?
Ask them - ask them all these questions. After you get the truth - then ask yourself - who is protecting our children?
In this podcast, I discuss the treatment of teachers. Over worked, undervalued, and under resourced - the question is - how can we treat teachers better? For one, we can take some of the money at the District Level and bring it down to the school level - providing substitutes and lunch room monitors so teachers can take well deserved breaks and rather than covering for each other - have substitutes fill in. This is a start, but as we listen more to teachers - there will be more ideas to ensure greater satisfaction for those teaching our children.
This morning, the Patch published an article titled Cherokee Schools' Transparency Website Expands For Public praising CCSD for expanding the transparency page. In this podcast, I discuss how this piece is nothing more than a fluff piece giving readers a false sense of transparency. Listing standards and goals is far from being able to review the content being delivered in the classroom. I also give an example of a tenant of CRT - which is listed in the 1st Grade SEL program. Take a look at the YouTube video yourself - and ask yourself - is this appropriate for 1st graders? Click here to view the video.
In this podcast, I answer questions I have been asked during my campaign. Listen in as I answer:
- Why are you running for school board?
- Why are you running as a group of four?
- What is the difference between you and other candidates?
- What would you do if you were elected - one change?
Have a wonderful weekend - 6 Weeks and 5 Days away from the Primary Election.
In this podcast, I discuss the power books have on children - their brain development, perceptions of themselves, and in the development of healthy relationships in life. We must consider the risk benefit equation - what is the risk of giving books to our children versus the benefit. Of the millions of books available for our children to read - books which normalize violence, pedophilia, rape, and sexual aggression should at a minimum - never be in a child's hands without prior parental consent.
What is the educational benefit versus the educational risks of providing books which introduce our children to illegal behaviors?
In this podcast, I tell a story about how every problem has a solution - if we can remove emotion and think critically. I also discussed the importance of a teacher in the classroom as I witnessed children learning dental health in the classroom. Through demonstration, the the teacher taught children how to treat guests, be kind, and well-mannered.
In this podcast, I discuss the five tenants of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and why CRT divides us rather than brings us together. Everyone needs to work together, as all of us have a stake in the eradication of racism. CRT does not promote unity - but promotes division. We should not be teaching our children to search for racism in all interactions of life. CRT believes racism is everywhere and in every system. I make two promises if elected to the School Board to solve CRT in CCSD classrooms.
In this podcast, I discuss thought reformation based on the book Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism - published by Robert Jay Lifton. This is a student of brainwashing in China - and he identified the tactics used by Chinese communists to cause drastic shifts in one's opinions and personality - the brainwashing of American soldiers. Listen to the 8-steps of thought reform - or indoctrination. Are any of these happening in our schools today?
In this podcast, I highlight the four pillars the 4 Can Do More- of which - Cam Waters in District 3, Chris Gregory in District 4, Sean Kaufman in District 5, and Ray Lynch in District 6 are like minded. We want transparency, education, unity, and freedom. Should we be elected to the School Board - we will fight to develop policies which promote these pillars while holding the Superintendent accountable for policies which have been approved but are not being upheld throughout the county. We are four individuals who are like minded - but we also are individuals who have our own thoughts and beliefs. Being like minded does not mean we are same minded. Reach out to your candidate and get to know them - that is the best thing you can do - get to know who you are voting for.
In this podcast, I discuss several conflicts of interest which exist in the Cherokee County School District. What this election comes down to is do you want to keep CCSD as it is - are do you want improve CCSD - keeping what is working well but improving what is not working. The #4CanDoMore candidates are running against a system - a machine - which has become complacent and comfortable. You can vote for change on May 24th - get out and vote.
All #4CanDoMore candidates will never vote to privatize these services when the superintendent brings this proposal forward, which was done to the janitorial staff.
In this podcast, all #4CanDoMore candidates join me to discuss the privatization of the bus services and cafeteria staff in Cherokee County School District (CCSD). Listen in as Chris Gregory (District 3), Cam Waters (District 4), myself (District 5) and Dr. Ray Lynch (District 6) answer the question TWICE - are you for or against privatization of bus services and cafeteria staff.
In this podcast, I provide some highlights of Cam Waters comments during the District 3 Candidate Forum. Listen in as he answers what he feels is the specific role of a board member, what changes he would make when elected, and provides his closing remarks.
Proud to be a supporter of Cam Waters for District 3.
In this podcast, I discuss the experience of knocking on doors - a campaign strategy - where I or a team member of our campaign have a chance to introduce ourselves, meet you, hear your concerns, and answer your questions. We will be visiting neighborhoods - hoping to meet you, gain your trust, and earn your vote. We are now over 1,200 doors knocked on in Woodstock!
In this podcast, I discuss the last board meeting. I provide several assignments to the school board that they have given to our kids. I doubt that any board member will complete these assignments. But even more disturbing - Chelle Brown reads from a book and a board member finds it to be inappropriate - and yet - finds it perfectly fine to place this book in the library. Never the wrong time to do the right thing.
In this podcast, I share a story about a student I lost to suicide and the pain it continues to bring to me today. We must focus on preparing our teachers and giving them the resources to identify and respond to children in crisis. Using suicide to push SEL programs on all children is extremely misleading.
In this podcast, I pose the question - How can you be for the children and fail to challenge what is currently happening in Cherokee County School District? We are in a time unlike any thing which has ever occurred in education. If we don't address these serious issues - the implications can be irreversible in our children. We need to get back to the education basics. Let the teachers teach and the parents parent. Let's do education together in Cherokee County.
In this podcast, I interview Chris Gregory - who is running for School Board District 4. Chris is an accountant, has grandchildren in Cherokee County Schools, and is very passionate in making sure our children receive a high quality education. Hear how Chris wants to make a difference and serve as your next District 4 School Board Member.
In this podcast, I discuss a summary of several meetings I have had with teachers in Cherokee County. CCSD is an over 500 million dollars per year business. I am hearing that many teachers are unhappy, being forced into retirement, and are working so much outside the classroom - they are being called workaholics! The "Four Can Do More" candidates are running to make changes which will free you from the data mining and allow you to get back to teaching.
In this podcast, I share some lessons learned on the campaign trail. Those running for office need both time and treasure, it is a huge sacrifice away from home and work, and how politicians have a choice to make - will they be respectful of those they run against - or attack the person rather than the issues. Politics doesn't have to be mean or cruel - there is a choice that each candidate will have to make during the campaign process.
In this podcast, I facilitate a conversation with the CEO of Georgia Public Policy Foundation - Kyle Wingfield. Kyle discusses school choice, what is currently happening in Georgia and other States, and why school choice has made schools stronger - not weaker as many claim.
In this podcast, I discuss an assignment my son received at Woodstock High School. Using the same strategy that was used in Flint, Michigan - when the water was called safe - many of the residents asked the politicians to drink the glass of water they called safe. So using the same strategy - I am challenging the Superintendent, administrators, and teachers to complete the assignment - select who should live or die, and justify their reasons for this decision.
If they could then make it public for all parents to see - I would greatly appreciate it so we can profile your decision making processes and understand each of you a bit better.
Will you accept this challenge?
In this podcast, I discuss why School Choice is a good thing for public schools. Cherokee County School District receives over $10,200.00 per student. The arrogance being exhibited by administrators is unacceptable. The school board is elected by us and works for us - holding the superintendent accountable for how our tax dollars are spent.
Do the math. 41,000 students multiplied by $10,200.00 equals $418,200,000. That is almost half a billion dollars per year! Are we getting what we deserve out of our schools?
In podcast, I discuss how the primary election works and why it is important to get to know your candidates! This is why I have podcast, burger bashes, and will be at the Copper Coin in downtown Woodstock starting March 10th - from 6-7 - every Thursday until the election. Come ask question, discuss, debate - but at least know who you are really voting for.
In this podcast, I provide a clear statement on my position specific to testing clinics. I discuss how the profession of public health profession has been compromised by politics - how CDC has failed during this pandemic, and again stand against testing clinics of any kind in our schools.
Happy Sunday! In this podcast, I interview my son Aiden Kaufman. We discuss how going to school during COVID was different - and I put him on the spot - asking him about three things he loves about Woodstock High School and three things which he thinks can improve. Have a wonderful week!
In this podcast created for those on my email list, I provide a campaign update, discuss what we are fighting for, and discuss how SEL programs are now being called CCSD CARES to minimize the "triggering" of parents.
In this podcast, Kathleen and Michael join me to share their perspectives specific to Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and the impacts these programs are having on children in the classroom. Both have promised to rejoin us in a month of co-facilitate a presentation on the history of SEL. Michael is an author of two books - Why Christians Can't Be Democrats and the US Constitution is a Contract. Check them - very nice work!
It is SUNDAY - a Godcast - and I discuss the biggest field goal I ever made! Listen in to what happened after the field goal. Prayer works - and God knows - I need your prayers as to all other candidates in this election.
Happy Saturday! In this MECAST I discussed my journey in public health - my passion - and my thoughts about the COVID-19 pandemic and the unnecessary mandates which occurred. I believe I have been truly blessed with many experiences - being on the front lines of emerging infectious diseases.
In this podcast, I discuss a concern that Cam Waters brought to my attention. Recent announcements specific to Read Across America failed to mention Dr. Seuss. Why? Is CCSD cancelling Dr. Seuss? I hope not. There is still time to acknowledge Dr. Seuss's contribution while sharing other books - offering a diverse selection during the month. It does not have to be either or - it can be both. Step up parents - don't let Cherokee County cancel Dr. Seuss.
In this podcast, I discuss the need for your time and/or treasure! Campaigns take time and money. I could sure use your help and support. We are hosting a Burger Bash next week - space is limited and running out. If you are interested in reserving a spot, please click here. I also need a team who could give me an hour in the morning - about 3 times a week from 730 - 830 AM. Please contact me directly at sean@seankaufman.com if you are interested in joining our team.
In this podcast, I thank my loyal listeners. Unfortunately, some loyal followers are taking the content and utilizing them to fuel their agendas. Sooooo, we are going to slow down on the podcasts and highlight some key professionals in the Cherokee County who will share their perspectives on education in Cherokee. Get to know your candidates well - the time for change is NOW.
It's Sunday - my birthday and time for another GODCAST - a story of how a question and my answer brought a deep sadness in my heart. I prayed for comfort and very quickly - God clearly loved on me and put peace in my heart.
It is another Saturday - in this MECAST I share a story of how I failed English in 10th Grade. Learn the difference between punishment and reinforcement. How did my parents respond and what was my grade the following semester? Enjoy this opportunity to get to know your candidate for School Board District 5.
In this podcast, I feature retired Colonel Quentin Thomas as we discuss the United States Constitution. Did you know that you could read the entire US Constitution in 30-minutes. Join us as we discuss the importance of the Constitution, the need for all Americans to know the Constitution , and what parents could be doing now to teach their children to apply the important details of US Constitution.
In this podcast, I discuss the problems with SEL programs in the classroom. When you explore the reasons behind teaching SEL, what SEL programs teach, how SEL will be taught, how it will be assessed and what is done with the information gathered from our children - it is extremely alarming. Who decides what is right and wrong or good and bad? That is the role of a parent - not the school.
Schools should be modelling SEL for students rather than teaching the theoretical constructs of it.
In this podcast, I differentiate ignorance and stupidity using a historical example and figure - Christopher Columbus. Calling myself a P.O.P. (pissed off parent), the more I learn about what is happening here in Cherokee County, the more disappointed I have become in the leaders of education. Rather than teaching our children that success is achieved through hard work, sacrifice, and risk-taking - we are teaching them that success is a matter of chance - what color or gender you claim to be.
In this podcast, I provide some history of what the American Dream is, define the American Dream, and share some of the responses which were written by students at Woodstock High School. I am not sure this assignment benefits our students - as essays I were able to read clearly stated the belief the American Dream is dying, dead, or a fallacy. Very sad.
In this podcast, I discuss a poem which I found in the AP English Literature and Composition Book. On the Subway - is a very powerfully written poem - which discusses racial observations in a manner which produces little to no educational value. Research it yourself - do you think this poem is content of which we should be asking our children to write about? Do you teach your children to benefit from a person's darkness?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SOdoh-lM6SI.
It's Sunday - time for a GODCAST - a story of how God has influenced the Kaufman family. In this GODCAST, I discuss how the act of being pushed off the monkey bars potentially saved my life. Thanks be to God - that push led to the discovery that I was born with one kidney and there was a problem with it. That problem was corrected, I live today, and it was because God pushed me off the Monkey Bars.
It's Saturday - so rather than a podcast it's a MECAST - a chance to get to know your candidate! In this MECAST, I talk about the year of 2014. I had chance to meet Dr. Kent Brantly who was the first Ebola patient ever to receive treatment in the United States. I served in the isolation unit at Emory Healthcare and allowed Kent and his wife Amber to hold hands - witnessing the healing touch needed to defeat the Ebola infection.
In this podcast, I am join by Jessica Waters who is Cam Waters foundation - in family, life, and with his campaign for Cherokee County School Board District 3. Jessica discusses why they joined this campaign, what parents need to know, and why parents have to engage for the future of their children's education in Cherokee County.
In this podcast, I discuss my interview with a report at the AJC. I discussed three concerns which I believe leadership at Cherokee County School District (CCSD) must address. I was raised being told that if you show me who you choose to hang out with, I will show you the person you will become. So could leadership please tell me 1) why was Cecilia Lewis offered a job - knowing her background and position CRT? 2) Why did you engage with Panorama Education - a company which openly supports SEL and CRT - consider the questions of the survey to be proprietary and unless requested - fail to share results of the children with the parents? 3) Why was a teacher - who was a first responder - not allowed to hang an American flag honoring first responders - and even if it was a flag policy violation - why have you not addressed this issue with the students directly affected by his resignation?
These issues together lead to some concerns. There must be more openness, better communication, and accountability for all constituents being served.
In this podcast, I discuss a process for avoiding the "echo chamber" - doing my best to understand those who strongly disagree with my position on SEL and DEI in the classroom environment. I also share a story about how a failure in the system led to a death of a young man who did everything he could to get help.
In this podcast, I discuss what I am learning from teachers. There is no doubt our children need support - but so do our teachers. That cannot be debated. What can be though is the role schools play in providing that support. Rather than generalizing social issues to all students, the identification and referral to resources for students in need is an appropriate approach.
In this podcast, I share some of the perspectives of teachers I talked to this weekend. The passion, dedication, and commitment of those teaching our children is simply amazing. Are they getting the support they need to serve our children? I thank all teachers for the hard work they do - everyday - at school and at home.
In this Godcast, I share the miracle on 575. Three sisters were involved in a serious car accident. One was ejected from the car. Doctors were not hopeful but with God - all things are truly possible. Happy Sunday to everyone...Always good is God - God is always good.
In this podcast, I share a story of how my father responded to the day I chose to be an intentional stinker! My goal is to do a daily podcast - Saturdays will be a mecast - stories about me growing up and Sundays will be a Godcast - how God has influenced my life. I want to set up a platform so busy parents, teachers, all those who live in Cherokee County have a chance to know me as a candidate. I want to earn your trust and vote! Let's do education together in Cherokee County.
In this podcast, I highlight an opinion piece written by Herschel Walker - who is running for U.S. Senate in Georgia. As products of public health education, we both have achieved success but recognize that many children are not so fortunate. The American Dream is realized with a solid education - focused on reading, writing, math, and science. When time is wasted on other topics (SEL , DEI and CRT) - our children fall further and further behind.
Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again - while expecting different results. Einstein is right - we are wasting time, resources, and hurting our children.
In this podcast I discuss my senior year - interrupted by my father's deployment to Iraq, his return, and a alcohol survey implemented in school. The outcome of that survey affected the perception of myself and my family. When children are asked to participate in a survey - the survey itself can affect a child's emotional wellbeing. Are teachers willing, prepared, and qualified to deal with those potential side-effects? I am not so sure.
In this podcast, I discuss a previous oversight. I praised the school board and administration for their response during COVID. However, I did not recognize the parents and teachers - who cared, engaged, and pushed for what was right. I thanked all of them today! I also discuss the traditional meaning of homework - asking parents to help other parents wake up to what is happening in today's classroom.
In this podcast, I discuss my meeting with Woodstock Principal Mark Smith and our discussion about Panorama Education - a company which is based in Boston and collects data from our children twice a year on social emotional learning. Is something a lie - when you know something will upset someone - but choose not to let that person know unless they uncover it themselves? I hope all parents in Cherokee County meet with their principals to discuss your child's results on a survey which measures self-management, social awareness, grit, growth mindset, learning strategies, and self-efficacy. What does this have to do with English, reading, writing, math, and science?
My thoughts about CRT in the classroom. Nobody should ever be made to feel guilty about who they are, the way they look, and be forced to own the sins of history. These issues are complex and do not belong in the classroom for many reasons. We must make sure history does not repeat itself and move forward with a message of love, acceptance and hope.
A husband and proud father of four girls in Cherokee County - Cam Waters joins our podcast to share why he is running for the Cherokee County School Board in District 3. Listen in as Cam discusses his vision, his support for parents and teachers, and his fight for a curriculum which ensures political narratives stay out of the classroom.
You can visit Cam on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/cam.waters.39.
A Woodstock Wolverine - Mitchell discusses his journey through high school as he learned the HVAC trade. Gary Russell joins us and discusses the importance of mentoring and effects that early trade training has on the lives of others. A true success story for a high school student who is now a father living in Cherokee County.
A summary of a meeting with Cherokee County School Superintendent Dr. Hightower and Chief of Staff Mike McGowan. During this meeting, I asked what is working well, what would you like to improve, and what can I do to gain access to teachers and principals in my district.
Let's do education together in Cherokee County!
It has been a hard two years - on our parents, on our children, and on our teachers. I spend 10-minutes discussing some COVID-19 questions and offer my expert testimony (used in the Daily Wire Case which went from the 5th District, to the 6th District, to the Supreme Court where we defeated the OSHA ETS Mandate for Businesses) to listeners interested in learning more about this pandemic.
Clark Menard has served District 5 - Cherokee County School Board for 8-years. Last night, I sat down with Clark and asked him what it would take to earn his vote. He was nice enough to answer the question and share more information on what serving on the board has been like.
Thank you Clark for your service - and thank your family for their support of that service.
Happy Martin Luther King Day! Today we discuss the top ten quotes of Martin Luther King and how his actions and words have stood the test of time. A figure celebrated in American History for bringing communities together - fostering hope, love, and tolerance in the United States of America.
An introduction to a new podcast aimed at increasing awareness of parents in Cherokee County on topics related to education. Hosted by Sean Kaufman (District 5 Candidate for School Board) - he introduces himself and discusses why he is running for school board.