Public Education Unfiltered

This episode addresses a question that public school district leaders are asking nationwide. Should public schools spend money to recruit families? Public schools were never supposed to run enrollment campaigns. But the funding model changed, family behavior changed, and doing nothing now costs more than acting. 

In this episode, we unpack why outreach is no longer optional and why it is actually responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Learn the costs of inaction, the return on outreach, and how districts can justify campaigns with data and transparency. 

This episode is a recording of Caissa K12’s National Parent Poll results webinar, which is a part of our annual research to assess family attitudes across school choice. To view the video recording, visit our youtube channel or use the following link: https://youtu.be/nK1-avCzvSY?si=b5U1R-lGrmmaQdJ8 

Countries rarely fall with a crash; they shrink by decisions that feel “reasonable.” We tell a real, policy-based story from Iran through the eyes of “Leila,” a student who watches her access to quality education get taken away. Then we hold up the mirror: when we say “I don’t care if vouchers hurt other kids,” are we starting down the same slippery slope? This episode connects our new national poll on vouchers to real classroom ripple effects and explains why starving “their” schools shrinks your own future.

When a college freshman breached PowerSchool’s network using stolen employee credentials, data from more than 60 million students was suddenly at risk. This isn’t just a tech story, it’s a wake-up call for district leaders and parents. In this episode, we unpack how the breach happened, why FERPA protections aren’t enough, and what every district should be demanding from vendors who hold student data. Because when it comes to privacy, protecting our students means protecting our communities. 

Advocating for traditional public schools and their role in society may now get you labeled an “extremist.” In this second part of our conversation on How School Vouchers Destroy The Social Contract, we explore what happens when societies turn their backs on free public education. From declining national wealth and weakened economies to diminished quality of life, history offers clear warnings about the dangers of dismantling a universal education system. Join us as we examine those lessons and discuss why protecting public schools is essential to preserving the fabric of our communities.

What happens to our society when we stop seeing public education as a shared responsibility? In this episode, we unpack what role public schools play in upholding the “social contract” and why it matters to every single one of us.

Hear why the growing “school choice” movement sounds appealing but can actually chip away at the foundation of our communities. Learn the potential long-term impact of a system that pits schools against each other and how that affects not just students, but everyone around them.

The school choice debate isn’t about opposing options. It’s about demanding fairness. Real choice requires real facts, accountability, and access for all students. This episode unpacks how misleading language and policies distort public understanding and offers clear, effective talking points to help advocates reframe the conversation and win the narrative for public education.

In this special “Stump the Chump” episode, Caissa K12 Director of Client Relations Rashai Holmes puts Brian Stephens in the hot seat with real questions from public school leaders across the country.

From tackling enrollment decline and improving student recruitment to staying competitive in a changing education landscape, Brian shares the strategies and advice that help districts succeed.

If you’ve ever wondered how other school districts are adapting and thriving, this episode is packed with insights you can put to work right away.

Federal law may open the door, but state constitutions decide who gets to walk through it. In Part 2, we look at how different states interpret voucher laws, from Florida’s “uniform system” clause to South Carolina’s “direct benefit” ban. Learn how some states are designing modern voucher and ESA programs to survive constitutional scrutiny, and what you can do in your own state to ensure public school districts are able to compete. 

Education choice is often framed as a political debate, but what does the law really say? In this first episode of a two-part series on the constitutionality of school vouchers, explore what federal laws say about vouchers and school choice. We break down landmark Supreme Court cases, explain why there’s no federal right to education, and explore how civil-rights protections like Title IX, IDEA, and the ADA shape today’s school voucher landscape at the federal level. 

Most conversations about public education focus on how to improve it. In this episode, we flip the question through a process called inverting: instead of asking what schools must do to succeed, we ask what could destroy them.

From financial fragility and political weaponization to media attacks, teacher demoralization, and the erosion of community support, we map out the ten biggest threats that could dismantle public schools if left unchecked. More importantly, we outline the strategies leaders can use to anticipate, avoid, and neutralize these dangers before they spiral out of control.

If you want...

With school choice here to stay, public school districts must evolve to embrace the reality of competition. Rochanda Jackson, Executive Director of the Office of Policy, Planning, Evaluation, and Testing at the Newark Board of Education, joins to discuss how her district has remained at the forefront. From leveraging the accountability of standardized testing to implementing proactive open enrollment strategies, she breaks down the key moves that have helped Newark stay ahead. Discover the importance of marketing your district’s story before it’s shaped by the competition.

Following Caissa K12’s recent feature in The New York Times, Brian sits down to directly respond to some of the reactions and comments it sparked. Joined by producer Caroline Christian, he addresses common misconceptions about public school districts, highlights the double standards they often face, and discusses the challenges of operating on an uneven playing field. From debates about equity and accountability to the role of marketing and public perception, learn the reality public school districts are facing, and why the focus must remain on the future of all students.

What happens when a society turns its back on public education? In this episode, we look at education’s past and present to uncover the devastating consequences cultures face when public education systems are dismantled or neglected. The loss of education doesn’t just slow progress and economic growth; it threatens the very foundation of a functioning society.

From institutional collapse to dictatorship to war, undermining public education leaves entire generations behind. As threats to equal access continue to grow, it is more important than ever to understand why protecting public education is essential to our future.

What can the history of public education teach us about its future? Across centuries and civilizations, public education has always played a central role in shaping societies and developing productive citizens. Learn how this global evolution defined the system we have today, and why understanding the importance of public education is vital in navigating the challenges districts are facing today.

The future of public education depends on our willingness to face reality: traditional public schools are in a competition, whether they want to be or not. In this episode, explore why districts must choose to compete, and how their communities must rise to the challenge and support them. The decline of access to free, high-quality public education threatens the very foundation of our society, which is why supporting and advocating for traditional public schools must become a top priority for communities across the nation. 

School choice legislation aims to create competition, but how can it be fair when public schools play by different rules? Scott Howat, the Chief Communications Officer of Orange County Public Schools, joins to discuss the financial impact of universal vouchers, the importance of accountability with taxpayer dollars, and why school choice isn’t the level playing field it appears to be. 

Discover the key actions public school district leaders should take today to remain competitive, from highlighting their schools’ community value to embracing a more student-centered approach to education. 

AI’s relevancy has increased drastically in recent years, but is it education’s cornerstone or its crutch? This episode explores the benefits and consequences of AI in the classroom, as well as the long term repercussions on students of a growing digital divide. Listen in to gain insights related to mitigating these challenges. 

Public education supporters across the nation have watched one community’s battle against unfair state legislation, a battle led by Indianapolis Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Aleesia Johnson. In this episode, featuring guest host Paige Walkup, Dr. Johnson shares how she fought a bill that aimed to dismantle the state’s public school districts.

Learn about the ins and outs of the fight against Bill 1136, from its four core areas of impact to the inspiring story of how district leaders and community members joined forces, using their voices to protect students.

Across the country, public school districts are taking tech giants like Meta and TikTok to court, blaming them for a mental health crisis unfolding in America's classrooms. This episode dives into the details behind local school district’s lawsuits against today’s largest social media platforms, citing their addictive properties as the cause of declining mental health amongst students; a cost that school districts are forced to bear. Unpack several studies linking social media to the increased financial, academic, and emotional burdens that are impacting our most passionate educators. 

As more public schools face budget shortfalls, many districts are considering outsourcing school services to cut costs, but is it the right move? This episode clarifies the conversation around outsourcing in public school districts, covering common reasons for outsourcing, when it can be effective, and when it may be risky. Through real-world examples and practical insights, you’ll understand the key factors of these decisions, and learn important strategies for balancing financial growth with student success.

The Department of Education's decision to eliminate DEI initiatives will have lasting effects on public school districts. This episode dives into the legal landscape surrounding public education and DEI by breaking down what is currently permitted, which practices face increasing restrictions, and the potential consequences for districts that do not comply. Understand the facts around DEI policies and what these changes mean for public education.

This episode examines how immigration enforcement and recent ICE raids are impacting public school attendance and dismantling safe spaces for students. It explores the decline in attendance among undocumented students, widespread walkouts, and the real-world consequences of these policy changes. 

Listen to learn what some schools are doing to protect their students' education, from legal precautions to proactive policies, and what your district can do to be prepared.

This episode features a candid conversation with Memphis-Shelby County Schools board member Tamarques Porter, who shares his perspective on the district’s success and potential challenges. The discussion covers the heated debate around school closures and building innovation, the dismissal of the former superintendent, and the potential for a state takeover. Porter also addresses the widespread misinformation surrounding these issues and outlines his vision for the future of the district.

This episode dives into the legal and legislative battle over religious displays in U.S. public school classrooms. We unpack why the Ten Commandments were originally banned, explore the efforts to reverse that decision in prominent Supreme Court cases like Stone v. Graham, and examine what’s at stake for public school districts nationwide. You’ll also hear compelling arguments from both supporters and opponents of these laws, offering a balanced look at one of the most debated church-and-state issues today.

Learn who benefits and who gets left behind in the education budget recently passed by the Texas Legislature. From promised teacher raises for only 50% of staff to missed opportunities for traditional public schools, the universal voucher program in Texas raises questions about its impact and the future. With an increasing number of traditional public school districts in Texas facing budget deficits since last year, the funding cuts are causing cascading negative effects for the future.

School choice is gaining momentum across the country, with initiatives like vouchers, education savings accounts, and charter school expansions moving quickly through state and federal legislatures. Supporters say these programs empower parents and promote healthy competition, but the real impact on public schools is more complicated. In this episode, we unpack what’s happening on the ground and what it means for the future of public education.

A recent Supreme Court decision has reshaped how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is applied— and public school districts across the country will feel the impact. In this episode, we break down what the ruling means, why it matters, and how it raises the legal standards schools must meet in serving students with disabilities.

Through clear explanations and real-world examples, you’ll learn how ADA-based lawsuits are expected to change, what new responsibilities districts will face, and what this means for families nationwide. Whether you're a school leader, student, or advocate, this episode will help you...

We are continuing the conversation about the impact and future of the Department of Education. This is the second part to Public Education Unfiltered’s episode on the potential ED shutdown. Discover the misplaced blame that often gets cast on the wrong groups and how critics are focusing on the wrong issues. Hear why we need to be rewarding results we actually want, not just standardized tests and graduation rates.

What actually is the department of education? A question many are asking recently, so learn what the department of education does and does not do, along with what the impacts of its “shutdown” will be. In the face of speculation and fear, find out what all of this means for public school districts across the country and what the future may look like after it's gone. 

Ever feel stuck between options or overwhelmed by competing priorities? You’re not alone. This episode will give you a toolkit for making decisions. Dive into the mindsets that help leaders make tough calls. Unpack what it means to make the right choice, own it with conviction and have the courage to make adjustments when necessary.

Want strategies for budgeting and competing in a changing landscape? In this episode, learn more about how public school districts face mounting financial pressures and fierce competition from alternative schooling models. Inspired by the key themes in A Level Playing Field: Strategies To Ensure Public Schools' Success, discover actionable insights into effective budgeting and financial planning strategies for public schools. Explore how public schools can strategically allocate resources to remain financially competitive, while also advocating for the necessary funding models to support their communities. 

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This national poll gauges parents' attitudes on attendance and immigration policy changes, giving public school district leaders the tools they need to make the best decisions for their communities. Brian Stephens breaks down the top-line findings from the poll, and offers expert opinion on next steps for public schools.

Watch the full recording here. 

Discover effective goal-setting strategies designed to drive success. Hear real-world examples of how public school districts can apply SMART goals to achieve meaningful results in both short- and long-term initiatives. While districts need the freedom to define their own success, rigid funding models and standardized expectations often create barriers. Tune in to explore how schools can navigate these challenges while maintaining autonomy in their goals.

How Can K-12 Schools Improve Student Recruitment? Insights from Orange County Public Schools' James Gregory.

In this episode, James Gregory from Orange County Public Schools, FL, shares expert insights on student recruitment strategies, alongside host Brian Stephens. Break down the key similarities and differences between recruiting for higher education and public school districts— plus, learn about the proven strategies that drive enrollment growth. From optimizing school tours to making a strong first impression, discover actionable steps to attract more families to your district.

Orange County Public School's Chief Communicators Officer explains how they won a one-mill ad valorem property tax ballot initiative that helped fund the district. With this funding, they've been able to increase their graduation rate and have an art teacher in each school.

Meet Dianne Foletto, Associate Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications with Round Rock ISD! She talks about what they're doing in their district to fight back against competition and train their staff to view families as customers. 

Brian Stephens sits down with Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond for an in-depth conversation about the future of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Dr. Richmond shares his vision for driving success across the district, tackling key issues like school choice, voucher programs, student enrollment, and attendance. 

With MSCS at a pivotal moment, this discussion explores the challenges and opportunities ahead— and what’s next for students, educators, and families. Tune in for valuable insights on the evolving landscape of public education in Memphis, TN.