OUR PODCASTS

Learning Curve

An expert and a mom discuss the state of education in Colorado. This engaging videocast features Ross Izard, an education policy expert and Erin Brantley, a mom who is passionate about education policy.

Homeschooling, private schools, public schools… we cover it all!

Learning Curve breaks down education policy so parents and citizens can understand what’s really happening in their schools. Hosted by Colorado parent and activist Erin Brantley and education policy expert Ross Izard, the show takes listeners inside the world of school choice, funding, legislation, school boards, and the policies shaping K–12 education. Each episode translates complex education policy into plain language, helping parents understand where decisions come from—and how they can get involved before those decisions impact their kids. If you care about schools, education policy, and the future of Colorado classrooms, Learning Curve gives you the insight you need to stay informed and engaged.

Mississippi’s education system was once ranked near the bottom in the nation. Today, it has become one of the most discussed literacy success stories in America.

In this episode of Learning Curve, Aaron Brantley and Ross Izzard examine Mississippi’s remarkable improvement in reading scores and ask what Colorado can learn from it. The discussion compares Mississippi’s Literacy-Based Promotion Act with Colorado’s READ Act, explores the controversial issue of third-grade retention, and looks at the challenges of improving literacy outcomes through policy alone.

The conversation also highlights the importance of parental involvement, summer learning loss, local control in education, and the difficult balance between accountability, funding, and student achievement.

If reading proficiency is one of the strongest predictors of future academic success, what should schools, parents, and policymakers be doing differently?

Join us for a thoughtful discussion on literacy, education reform, and the future of student success.