Education Matters With MySchoolOptions

• Episode 38 - Inside Indiana’s Newest Classical School Option

  In this episode, host Sarah Milligan sits down with Mollie Crummey, board president of the newly launched Chesterton Academy of St. Scholastica in Fort Wayne, Indiana. A homeschooling mom of seven with a background in financial risk analysis, Mollie shares the inspiring story behind launching one of Indiana’s most exciting new school choice options. Tune in as they explore what it takes to start a classical high school from the ground up—and why Fort Wayne families are responding with enthusiasm. From curriculum to community building to the surprising benefits of school vouchers, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration for anyone passionate about educational freedom. Key Takeaways: Launching a Classical High School from Scratch: Mollie details the practical steps she took—from fundraising $275,000 to leasing space from a local airport—to open Chesterton Academy and bring a classical, values-driven curriculum to her community. Why Classical Education Matters: Discover how time-tested teaching methods like Socratic discussion and a curriculum rooted in the great books are helping students develop not just academically, but emotionally and spiritually. Parents as Partners in Education: Mollie explains how the academy was designed as a true extension of the home, giving families a trusted, mission-aligned option for high school. Making School Choice Accessible: Learn how the school joined Indiana’s voucher program without compromising its religious values or classical approach—opening the door for more families to access a high-quality private education. Looking Ahead: With growth already underway, hear Mollie’s vision for a flourishing future—and why she believes every community deserves an educational option that speaks to both the mind and the heart.Don’t miss this powerful episode about reimagining education, empowering families, and passing on the values that shape the next generation. Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

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• Episode 37 - Inside the Kroc Center With Neil Carmichael

  In this episode, host Cesar Roman sits down with Neil Carmichael, Director of Arts and Education at the Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center in South Bend, Indiana. A celebrated music educator, composer, and community leader, Neil has helped transform the Kroc Center into a hub for accessible arts education and youth development. Tune in as they discuss the programs that are connecting South Bend families to new opportunities—from after school and homeschool enrichment to innovative partnerships that make learning engaging and accessible for every student. Key Takeaways: Expanding Access Through the Arts: Neil shares how the Kroc Center is removing barriers for families in South Bend by offering free and low-cost music, dance, STEM, and art classes—powered by community grants and strategic partnerships. Homeschool and After School University: Discover how these two flagship programs give students the chance to explore theater, hip hop dance, digital music, and more—all in a safe, supportive environment that encourages creativity and connection. Building Bridges with Community Partners: Learn how relationships with local organizations—from housing authorities to universities like Notre Dame and Purdue—are helping expand educational opportunities and support services. A Focus on the Whole Child: From character development to tutoring and youth leadership, Neil explains how the Kroc Center’s programs are helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Looking Ahead: Neil shares insights from a recent community survey and talks about future offerings in culinary arts, financial literacy, and technology education for seniors and young adults. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about the power of education, the importance of community, and why access to the arts matters more than ever. Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

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• Episode 36 - Inside Indiana’s New High School Diploma Requirements

  In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan unpack Indiana’s bold new redesign of the high school diploma. With student needs and workforce demands rapidly evolving, Indiana's 2025 legislation marks a turning point for K-12 education. These new diploma requirements aren’t just about credits—they’re about preparing students for real life. We’ll walk through what’s changing, why it matters, and how parents can help their children navigate the new expectations. Whether you have a middle schooler or a rising senior, this episode offers a vital breakdown of how Indiana is rethinking high school to better equip students for a successful future. Key Takeaways: One Diploma, Many Paths: Indiana now offers a flexible base diploma with career, college, or military “readiness seals.” Why It’s Needed: Fewer students are attending college, joining the military, or graduating career-ready. Career Readiness: Internships, certifications, and military experience can count toward graduation. More Electives, More Credits: Students can earn up to 64 credits, with 12 elective credits for personalized learning. Automatic Acceptance: Students earning the “Honors Plus” seal get automatic acceptance to Indiana colleges. Get Informed: Visit in.gov/doe/diplomas for details and planning tools. 🎧 Don't miss this essential episode—perfect for parents, educators, and anyone passionate about preparing students for success in a changing world. 🔗 Learn more about school choice options in Indiana at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

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• Episode 35 - A Legislative Recap with Betsy Wiley

  In this episode of Education Matters, hosts Cesar Roman and Sarah Milligan sit down with Betsy Wiley, President & CEO of the Institute for Quality Education, to unpack one of the most consequential legislative sessions for school choice in Indiana history. Despite facing a surprise $2 billion budget shortfall, Indiana prevailed—delivering major wins for Hoosier families and students. From the miraculous passage of universal Choice Scholarships to critical funding protections for ESAs, CSAs, and charter schools, this session proved that smart policy and powerful advocacy can overcome even the toughest fiscal environments. Betsy walks us through how it happened, what it means, and what’s next in the ongoing fight to defend and expand educational opportunity across the state. Key Takeaways: Universal School Choice is Coming: Vouchers will be available to all Indiana students by 2026–27. Advocacy Was Essential: Parent and school voices played a critical role in advancing choice. Core Programs Protected: ESAs, CSAs, and charter schools avoided cuts despite the shortfall. Academic Quality Advancing: New math screeners and accountability measures are on the way. 🎧 Don’t miss this inside look at how Indiana became a national leader in education freedom—again. 🔗 Learn more about school choice options in Indiana at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

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• Episode 34 - Ely Page: Fighting for Every Child’s Future

  In this episode of Education Matters, host Cesar Roman sits down with Ely Page, Regional Organizing Director at My School Options, to uncover how school choice is transforming communities across Indiana. From his deeply personal homeschooling background to his policy work during Indiana’s historic school choice expansion, Ely brings a unique lens to the evolving education landscape. His mission? Ensuring every family has the knowledge and access to choose the best education path for their child. Tune in for a powerful conversation about how educational freedom is reshaping regions like Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Hamilton County—and what that means for parents, students, and the future of Indiana. Key Takeaways: Breaking Down Barriers to Access: Discover why awareness—not availability—is the biggest hurdle for families, and how My School Options is working face-to-face in communities to spread the word about school vouchers, ESAs, and micro-schooling. Inside Indiana’s Diverse Education Ecosystem: Explore how Fort Wayne’s established institutions, Michiana’s innovative spirit, and Hamilton County’s abundance of choices offer unique approaches to learning. Empowering Parents with Real Options: Hear how school choice helped a student with muscular dystrophy gain two reading levels thanks to Indiana’s ESA program—and how flexible options like this are changing lives. A Message to Families: Whether you’re seeking the perfect school now or preparing to pivot later, Ely reminds families: “You have options. You deserve it.” 🎧 Whether you're a parent exploring school alternatives, an advocate for education equity, or just curious about what’s possible in Indiana, this episode will leave you informed and inspired. 🔗 Learn more about school choice options in Indiana at myschooloptions.org Did you find this episode informative? Help us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5 Star rating on your podcatcher of choice For more information about school choice and the Indiana Choice Scholarship Program, visit our website at https://www.i4qed.org

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