In this introductory episode of the K-12 Confidential podcast, hosts Shawn and Trina—a married couple with over 35 years of teaching experience—discuss the current state of K-12 education in the U.S., touching on various systemic issues such as poor literacy rates, teacher shortages, inadequate pay, and flawed teacher preparation programs.. The episode sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of 'messes' in the education system, with the goal of mobilizing teachers and stakeholders towards systemic reforms. Special guests, including fellow teachers, experts, and the hosts’ supportive family members, will join future episodes to explore themes such as special education, school climate and culture, DEI initiatives, canned curricula, and governance issues. The hosts also promote a petition to establish a national governing board for K-12 educators, aiming to give teachers a significant role in educational decision-making.

00:00 Introduction to K-12 Confidential

00:36 Meet the Hosts: Sean and Trina

04:01 Podcast Format and Expectations

08:17 The Teacher Pay Mess

15:49 Teacher Preparation Challenges

20:45 The Teacher Shortage Crisis

24:58 Special Education Struggles

30:30 Climate and Culture in Schools

35:30 The Impact of Technology on Youth Behavior

36:33 School-Wide Behavioral Interventions

36:58 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Education

39:18 The Politicization of Education

44:26 Teacher Health and Wellbeing

48:47 The Reading Crisis in Schools

51:52 The Problem with Canned Curriculum

58:06 The Need for Teacher Leadership

59:41 Call to Action: Sign the Petition

We need more teacher voices to this this justice! Visit us at k-12confidential.com to request to speak on the podcast.

Sign the petition to join the movement to save K-12 Education!