One Good Idea

In this episode of One Good Idea, host Peter Franzen talks with Ashley Soifer, co-founder of the National Microschooling Center, about one of the fastest-growing movements in education: microschools.Microschools are small, relationship-based learning environments designed to meet students where they are. While they may look different from one community to another, they share a common goal—creating flexible, personalized learning experiences for children and families.Peter and Ashley discuss:What a microschool is (and why there isn't one strict definition)How microschools grew from homeschooling, learning pods, and innovative community modelsWhy more families are choosing microschools over traditional optionsThe rise of high school microschools and career-connected learningHow microschools serve rural communities and students with unique learning needsThe challenges founders face navigating regulations and policy barriersWhy Ashley believes the future of education is increasingly personalizedWhether you're a parent exploring educational options, an educator interested in innovation, or simply curious about how learning is evolving, this conversation offers an inside look at a movement reshaping education across America.Learn more about the National Microschooling Center: https://microschoolingcenter.orgOne Good Idea is produced by the Children's Education Alliance of Missouri (CEAM).

What does it take to help children truly love reading?In this episode of One Good Idea, Peter sits down with educator and literacy advocate Julius Anthony to discuss the powerful connection between literacy, representation, and student success.Julius shares the story behind the creation of the St. Louis Black Authors of Children’s Literature and the innovative Believe Literacy Labs—immersive reading spaces designed to help children see themselves reflected in books, build confidence, and experience joy in learning.The conversation explores:Why third grade reading matters so muchThe literacy crisis facing Missouri studentsThe importance of culturally responsive children’s literatureHow school environments shape learning and identityThe design and impact of the Believe Literacy LabsWhat happens when children finally feel “at home” in a reading spaceThis episode is a thoughtful and hopeful conversation about what schools can become when we center humanity, culture, and belonging in the learning process.🎧 Listen now and discover one good idea that’s changing literacy outcomes for children across St. Louis and beyond.

What if every school in Missouri received a simple A–F grade—just like a student report card?That idea is gaining real momentum, and it could fundamentally change how families understand school performance.In this episode, host Peter Franzen sits down with Patricia Levesque, Executive Director of ExcelinEd—the national education reform organization founded by former Florida Governor Jeb Bush. With nearly 30 years of experience, Patricia helped design and implement Florida’s landmark A–F grading system.They discuss:What A–F School Report Cards are (and what they’re not)How Florida went from a bottom-10 state in student performance to a top-10 state—and what Missouri can learnWhy simple letter grades drive accountability, media attention, and real improvementHow to respond to critics who say the system oversimplifies school performanceWhat Missouri policymakers need to get right as they consider codifying Governor Kehoe’s executive order into lawIf you care about transparency, accountability, and better outcomes for Missouri students, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.One Good Idea is produced by the Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri (CEAM).