The PHPS Difference

Send us Fan MailIn this episode Becky and Lauren sit down with Mr. Adler to learn more about his journey in education and what excites him most about leading the PHPS Middle School.This episode takes a fun and engaging turn as some of our amazing 5th grade students join the conversation, putting Mr. Adler in the hot seat with thoughtful and creative questions. From his favorite books growing up to the experiences that shaped him as an educator, listeners get a glimpse into both the leader and the person behind the role.🧠 What We DiscussMr. Adler’s path into educationHis vision and excitement for PHPS Middle SchoolWhat middle school was like for himThe importance of relationships and student connectionStudent-led questions that bring out personality and perspective🎬📚 Mr. Adler’s Favorites & InfluencesFavorite film: The NaturalFavorite books as a kid: Matt Christopher sports book seriesA meaningful recommendation from his grandmother: The Lords of DisciplineA book on education: The Teenage BrainComing Up NextComing up next: Preventing the Summer Slide - simple, practical ways to keep reading and math skills strong without turning summer into school.

Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Show NotesStudent Takeover with Drew DaywaltIn this special episode of the PHPS Difference Podcast, we’re handing the microphones over to our students for a Student Takeover!Fifth graders Penny and Wells lead the conversation as they interview bestselling children’s author Drew Daywalt, known for beloved books like The Day the Crayons Quit and The Day the Crayons Came Home.Joined by fellow students James, Mila, Caroline, and Allie, this episode is filled with curiosity, creativity, and plenty of fun as students take the lead in asking thoughtful—and sometimes surprising—questions.🧠 What We DiscussHow Drew Daywalt comes up with ideas for his booksHis experiences growing up with dyslexia and dyscalculiaWhat school was like for him as a studentThe role of creativity, imagination, and humor in storytellingA behind-the-scenes look at writing and being an author⚡ PHPS Speed RoundOur student readers jump in with a fast-paced round of questions, including:Favorite color, snack, and writing spotMorning vs. night writingDogs or catsAnd even… what animal would make the best writing buddy📚 Books & Authors MentionedThe Day the Crayons QuitThe Day the Crayons Came HomeThey Call Me No SamForty the Fortune TellerTony DiTerlizziRutgers and the Water-Snouts🌱 A Moment That Stands OutDrew shares openly about his own experiences with dyslexia and dyscalculia, offering a powerful reminder that learning differences can shape creativity, perspective, and success in meaningful ways.🎙️ Why This Episode MattersAt PHPS, we believe in creating opportunities for students to use their voice, ask questions, and engage with the world around them. This episode is a joyful example of what happens when students take the lead—and a meaningful reminder that different learners can grow into creative, confident adults.

Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Show NotesUnderstanding ADHD & Executive FunctionIn this episode of the PHPS podcast, we wrap up our three‑part series on learning differences with Leda Owens of the Housson Center.In this conversation, we explore ADHD through the lens of executive function — helping families better understand how attention, organization, working memory, and self‑regulation impact students both in school and in daily life. Dr. Owens offers clear, practical insight into how these challenges show up and how supportive environments can make a meaningful difference.🧠 What We DiscussHow to understand ADHD in clear, everyday languageWhat executive function skills are and how they develop over timeHow ADHD impacts learning, attention, and consistency in schoolCommon misconceptions about ADHD, including attention and hyperfocusPractical ways to support students at home and in the classroomThe importance of scaffolding, patience, and reducing overwhelmStrengths often associated with ADHD, including creativity and adaptability📚 Resources MentionedLeda Owens – Learn more about Dr. Owens’ work with students and families through the Housson Center, including support for ADHD and executive function.Theo of Golden – A book Dr. Owens is currently reading and recommends!🌱 A Message of EncouragementDr. Owens reminds us that ADHD is not simply about attention — it’s about how the brain manages and organizes tasks. She emphasizes that while there are real challenges, there are also meaningful strengths, including creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and out‑of‑the‑box thinking. With understanding, patience, and the right support, students with ADHD can build confidence, develop their skills over time, and thrive in ways that reflect their unique strengths.🎙️ Series Wrap‑UpThis episode concludes our three‑part series on learning differences. Our hope is that these conversations have provided clarity, encouragement, and practical insight for families and educators supporting students every day.🎧 Coming NextWe’re handing the microphones over to our students for a special student takeover episode, featuring an interview with visiting author Drew Daywalt, best known for The Day the Crayons Quit — a joyful and creative conversation you won’t want to miss.

Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Show NotesMath Learning: Visual‑Spatial Processing & Working MemoryIn this episode of the PHPS podcast, we continue our three‑part series on learning differences with Leda Owens of the Housson Center.Together, we explore how visual‑spatial processing and working memory influence math learning and why some students may struggle with math even when they are trying hard. Dr. Owens helps us better understand the thinking skills behind math, how challenges can show up in the classroom, and how thoughtful instruction and support can help students build confidence.🧠 What We DiscussHow visual‑spatial processing supports understanding numbers and solving math problemsThe role working memory plays in holding and organizing information during math tasksSigns a child may be struggling with these skillsWhy “more practice” doesn’t always solve math challengesInstructional approaches that help reduce cognitive overload in math learningHow teachers and families can support students as they build confidence and problem‑solving strategies📚 Resources MentionedDyscalculator – A calculator designed to support students with dyscalculia by reducing cognitive load and making math tasks more accessible.Leda Owens – Learn more about Dr. Owens’ work supporting students with ADHD, dyscalculia, and executive function challenges through the Housson Center.🌱 A Message of EncouragementDr. Owens reminds families that math struggles are often connected to underlying cognitive processes — not effort or motivation. With the right supports and instructional approaches, students can develop strategies that help them succeed and feel more confident in their learning.🎙️ Coming NextIn the final episode of our learning differences series, Dr. Owens returns to talk about ADHD and executive function, exploring how attention, organization, and regulation impact learning and what supportive environments look like for these learners.

Send us Fan Mail🎧 Episode Show NotesUnderstanding Dyslexia & Dysgraphia with Dr. Nicole BellIn this episode of the PHPS podcast, we kick off our three‑part series on learning differences with Nicole Bell, Head of School at PHPS. Dr. Bell shares insight into two common language‑based learning differences — dyslexia and dysgraphia — and helps families better understand how they affect reading, writing, and learning.Together, we explore how these learning differences show up in the classroom, the importance of early recognition, and how structured, research‑based instruction can help students build confidence and thrive.🧠 What We DiscussWhat dyslexia and dysgraphia are and how they differEarly signs families and teachers may noticeHow learning differences can impact a child’s confidence and school experienceWhy phonemic awareness is a critical foundation for reading and writingHow structured, explicit literacy instruction supports students with dyslexia and dysgraphiaCommon misconceptions about learning differencesPractical ways families can support children at home🌱 A Message of EncouragementDr. Bell reminds families that a learning difference does not define a child’s potential. With understanding, strong relationships, and the right instructional support, students with dyslexia and dysgraphia can grow into confident and successful learners.🎙️ Coming Next in the SeriesIn Episode 2, we continue the conversation with Leda Owens from the Housson Center as we explore math learning differences, including challenges related to visual‑spatial processing and working memory.📚ResourcesThe Yale Center for Dyslexia and & Creativity - provides research, resources, and advocacy to help educators and families better understand dyslexia and support students with language‑based learning differences. It also highlights the strengths and creativity often associated with dyslexia.Overcoming Dyslexia-A trusted guide from one of the world’s leading dyslexia researchers, this book helps parents and educators better understand, identify, and support individuals with dyslexia. Updated with the latest research and practical strategies, it offers tools to build strong reading skills and confidence at every age.The Dyslexic Advantage-This book highlights the powerful strengths often found in individuals with dyslexia. Drawing on research and real-life stories, the authors show how dyslexic thinkers often excel in creativity, problem-solving, and big-picture thinking, offering an encouraging perspective for educators, families, and students.

Send us Fan MailNavigating the Middle School Years with Pam JordanIn this episode of the PHPS podcast, we sit down with Pam Jordan, former Head of Middle School at an independent school, to explore the remarkable growth happening during adolescence. Together, we discuss what’s changing in the adolescent brain, the social and emotional needs that define the middle school years, and how strong relationships and supportive school environments help students thrive.🧠 What We DiscussKey changes in the adolescent brain during middle schoolWhy belonging and identity matter so much at this stageWhy middle school can feel especially complex for students with learning differencesThe powerful role of trusted adult relationshipsHow small, relational school environments support confidence and growthWhat families often misunderstand about adolescence📚 Resources & Books MentionedLisa Damour – A leading voice on adolescent development and parenting. Pam recommended her insights, including the Ask Lisa podcast series for practical, research‑based guidance for families.The Anxious GenerationAn examination of rising youth anxiety and the cultural shifts shaping adolescent mental health.The HobbitA classic coming‑of‑age adventure that reflects the courage and growth of stepping into new stages of life.Klara and the SunA novel about an Artificial Friend observing the world and exploring connection, humanity, and what it truly means to love.Pam also referenced the importance of seeing the “forest from the trees” — remembering to step back and view adolescence as a larger developmental journey, not just a series of daily moments.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett take a closer look at the PHPS admissions journey—what it means to apply into our community and, when the time is right, apply out to the next best-fit school for a child.The conversation features Laura Holthouser, PHPS Director of Admissions, along with parent voices Kendall Murphey and Judge Platt, who share honest reflections on navigating admissions, trusting the process, and making decisions grounded in what’s best for students.Together, they offer a thoughtful look at how PHPS partners with families, supports students who learn differently, and approaches admissions with care, clarity, and integrity—every step of the way.A reassuring, insightful listen for families beginning—or already walking—the admissions journey.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett celebrate the joy of reading and how PHPS nurtures confident, curious readers—with students who learn differently. Through student voices, favorite book picks, and a peek inside the PHPS library, they explore how choice, access, and connection help every child see themselves as a reader.The conversation also features Katherine Bush, a 3rd-grade teacher and parent of a 1st- and 4th-grade student with learning differences, who shares thoughtful insights on supporting readers both at school and at home.A joyful, encouraging listen for families looking to inspire a lifelong love of reading.Books Students Loved:Matilda; Percy Jackson and the Olympians; Diary of a Wimpy Kid; Magic Tree House; Captain Underpants; Wings of Fire; Notebook of DoomBecky & Lauren’s Picks:Owly • The One and Only Ivan • The Tale of Despereaux • Mercy Watson • I Survived • Elephant & Piggie • Henry & Heidi HeckelbeckResources Mentioned:The Read-Aloud Revival – Encourages reading aloud at every age, focusing on connection and joyALA Booklist – Trusted reviews that guide high-quality book selectionTexas 2×2 & Bluebonnet – Programs that introduce students to exceptional, student-loved titlesLearning Ally, Epic!, Audible – Multiple ways for students and families to access stories through listening and reading

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The PHPS Difference, Lauren Marold and Becky Barrett explore gratitude through the voices that shape our community every day. You’ll hear reflections from PHPS students and faculty—capturing the joy, humor, and heart of campus life—followed by a thoughtful conversation with the Street family on what PHPS has meant to them and why they chose to support the Foundation for Our Future Success campaign.A warm, meaningful listen that celebrates where we are—and the future we’re building together.

Send us Fan MailAfter our parent education morning, Lauren and Becky sat down with Dr. Ben Kirby—an educator and administrator with more than 18 years of experience—to talk about raising kids in a digital world. In this short, practical conversation, Dr. Kirby shares real-world strategies for healthier tech habits, calmer after-school routines, and supporting developing adolescent brains with consistency and confidence.A quick, insightful listen for any family navigating technology today.Dr. Kirby's Reading List: Educational Read: 10 to 25: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation—And Making Your Own Life Easier by David Yeager A practical, insightful guide for parents and educators on understanding today’s kids and teens, building stronger connections, and leading with clarity and confidence.Children's Literature: Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls – A moving classic about determination, friendship, and the deep bond between a boy and his dogs. A powerful, emotional read for older kids, teens, and adults alike.

Send us Fan MailIn our debut episode of The PHPS Difference, Dr. Nicole Bell, PHPS Head of School, joins us to share the PHPS mission, vision, and what makes this community so special.Dr. Bell's Reading List: Educational Read: Building Learning Power by Guy Claxton — Practical strategies for strengthening students’ learning habits and independence.Pleasure Read: The Wager (Historical Fiction) by David Grann — A gripping, fast-paced survival tale based on a true maritime disaster.Children’s Literature: The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton — A classic coming-of-age story about identity, belonging, and empathy.