What happens when the classroom is inside a cell? On this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we tackle the urgent issue of education in prison. Guest Khaled Ashraf joins us to dismantle the myths surrounding inmate learners and highlight the systemic failures that lead to the "school-to-prison pipeline."

We explore how trauma and poverty contribute to educational failure and why rigorous education in prison is the most effective tool we have for rehabilitation. From literacy programs to college degrees, discover how learning is unlocking potential behind bars.

Key Topics:

• The School-to-Prison Pipeline
• Reducing Recidivism through Learning
• Trauma-Informed Teaching in Corrections

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The Bad Boy of Early Childhood Education: Ron Shuali

He calls himself the bad boy of early childhood education—and after this conversation, you'll understand why.

Ron Shuali has earned his title as the bad boy of early childhood education by doing what few dare: challenging everything we think we know about teaching young children. As founder of Yogarate and the revolutionary Unpd movement, this bad boy of early childhood education is on a mission to transform classrooms worldwide.

WHAT WE COVER:
• Why Ron proudly calls himself the bad boy of early childhood education
• How the bad boy of early childhood education created Yogarate
• The Unpd movement and why educators are joining this bad boy of early childhood education
• Breaking free from worksheet culture in preschool
• How movement and mindfulness change child development
• Practical strategies from the bad boy of early childhood education
• The future of early learning according to this industry disruptor

ABOUT RON SHUALI – THE BAD BOY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION:
Ron Shuali didn't set out to become the bad boy of early childhood education. But after years of watching traditional methods fail children, he couldn't stay silent. As founder of Yogarate—a groundbreaking program combining yoga and karate for young children—and the Unpd movement, this bad boy of early childhood education has inspired thousands of teachers to rethink everything.

CONNECT WITH THE BAD BOY OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION:
https://unprofessionaldevelopment.wtf/
https://www.youtube.com/user/shualife
https://www.instagram.com/ron_shuali_m.ed/?hl=en

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Is that student "acting out," or are they experiencing sensory overload? 🧠 In this eye-opening episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we sit down with sensory experts Donna Redman and Cynthia Duffy to uncover the "Secret Genius" of sensory processing.

We challenge the traditional view of classroom behavior, exploring how sensory needs—from the tag on a shirt to the hum of a fluorescent light—impact learning and executive function. If you are a teacher, parent, or admin trying to support neurodiverse students, this conversation will change how you see your classroom.

In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ The "Secret Genius" Framework: Why sensory sensitivity is a strength, not a deficit. ✅ Behavior vs. Biology: How to distinguish between defiance and dysregulation. ✅ Heavy Work & Proprioception: Practical tools to calm the nervous system instantly. ✅ The Executive Function

Connection: Why you can't teach a dysregulated brain. ✅ Self-Advocacy: Teaching students to own their sensory profile.

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Summary

In this conversation, Hillary Summerbell shares her journey from struggling with reading due to visual dyslexia to creating the Summerbell reading system, which utilizes graphic organization to help neurodiverse learners. She discusses the development of the Positional Reading Arc, the importance of technology in education, and the accessibility of her tools for all learners. Hillary emphasizes the need for accommodations in education and shares her personal experiences with the educational system, highlighting the transformative power of meeting students where they are. The conversation also touches on research validating the efficacy of the Summerbell system and how it can benefit a wide range of learners.


Takeaways

Hillary Summerbell created Summerbell to help neurodiverse learners.
The Positional Reading Arc was developed from Hillary’s personal struggles with reading.
Graphic organization aids in comprehension for visual dyslexics.
Technology, like Chrome extensions, enhances learning accessibility.
Summerbell offers both digital and hard copy reading options.
Research shows positive results from using Summerbell in classrooms.
Accommodations in education are crucial for student success.
Summerbell can benefit learners from ages 1 to 100.
Consistent use of Summerbell can significantly improve reading skills.
Hillary’s educational journey reflects the challenges faced by many neurodiverse individuals.

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Is your grading pen doing more harm than good?

In this episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere, we sit down with renowned literacy expert and author Patty McGee to perform some much-needed "Red Ink Rehab." For decades, the hallmark of writing instruction has been the crimson-stained rough draft—a sea of corrections that often leaves students feeling defeated rather than inspired.

Patty challenges us to trade the red pen for a more restorative approach. We dive deep into non-traditional writing instruction techniques that prioritize the writer over the writing. Whether you’re a K-12 educator, a homeschool parent, or a writing coach, this conversation will shift your perspective on how to provide feedback that actually sticks.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Psychology of Feedback: Why traditional "correction" often shuts down student creativity.
• The "Coach" vs. "Judge" Mentality: How to shift your role in the writing workshop.
• Actionable Alternatives: Strategies for verbal conferencing and "glow and grow" feedback.
• Building Confidence: Patty shares her secrets for helping reluctant writers find their authentic voice.
• Practical Pedagogy: How to meet curriculum standards without sacrificing the joy of storytelling.

It’s time to move beyond the margins and start a new chapter in how we teach composition. Tune in to learn how to turn your classroom into a space where every student feels like a writer.

About Patty McGee

Patty McGee is a sought-after literacy consultant and the author of several books, including Feedback that Moves Writers. Her mission is to create learning environments where both teachers and students find joy and success in the writing process.

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Summary

In this conversation, Benita C. Gordon, an entrepreneur and turnaround specialist, discusses her innovative approach to education as an education concierge. She emphasizes the importance of high-touch services in navigating the education system, addressing the disconnect between parents, teachers, and administrators, and the need for productive disruption in education. The discussion also covers the challenges of burnout among educators, the rise of micro-schooling and homeschooling, and the significance of building relationships with students to foster a positive learning environment.

Takeaways

Benita C. Gordon is redefining education as a high-touch concierge service.
The education concierge helps families navigate the education system.
There is a significant disconnect between parents, teachers, and administrators.
Burnout is a real issue affecting educators and administrators alike.
Innovative education models like micro-schooling are gaining traction.
Building relationships with students is crucial for effective teaching.
Minimum Monday is a strategy to reset students' emotional states at the start of the week.

Educators need to adapt to the changing landscape of education. The heart for education is essential for effective teaching. Education should focus on the individual needs of each student.

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Summary

In this conversation, Timothy White engages with Karim Ali and Sadiq Ali, the directors of the documentary 'They Said, NDR: The Untold Power of the Black Bookstore.' They discuss the provocative title, the legacy and resilience of Black bookstores, and their impact on literacy and community engagement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of confronting stereotypes, inspiring a love for reading, and the role of bookstores as spaces for radical thought and education. The brothers share their personal motivations and call for community support to bring their project to fruition.

Takeaways

• The title of the documentary is meant to provoke thought and discussion.
• Black bookstores have historically served as centers of knowledge and community.
• The documentary aims to inspire a renewed interest in reading within the Black community.
• There is a need to confront and dismantle stereotypes about Black literacy.
• The legacy of Black bookstores is one of resilience and empowerment.
• Community support is crucial for the survival of Black bookstores.
• The documentary seeks to highlight the untold stories of Black bookstores.
• Literacy rates among Black Americans have been declining, necessitating action.
• The creators emphasize the importance of making reading 'cool' again for younger generations.
• The project aims to educate and engage the community in meaningful conversations about history and identity.

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Discover the powerful insights of veteran educator Anne Richter, acclaimed author of In Our Classroom, in this inspiring episode of Hall Pass to Nowhere. With more than 30 years of teaching experience, Anne shares hard-earned wisdom on creating inclusive learning environments, supporting diverse student needs, and building strong teacher–student relationships.

In this episode, Anne dives into the real stories behind In Our Classroom, revealing what today’s teachers truly face—and how they can thrive. We explore practical classroom management strategies, the emotional realities of teaching, and the importance of community, empathy, and resilience in education.

Whether you're a new teacher, a seasoned educator, a school leader, or simply passionate about the future of learning, this conversation will leave you feeling understood, encouraged, and equipped with actionable tools for your own classroom.

Key Topics Covered:

• Anne Richter’s journey as an educator and the inspiration behind In Our Classroom
• How to navigate classroom challenges with confidence and compassion
• Strategies for fostering student engagement and creating a positive classroom culture
• The evolving landscape of education and what teachers need most today
• Advice for avoiding burnout and sustaining joy in teaching.

Tune in for an honest, heart-centered conversation that honors the work of teachers everywhere—and offers practical guidance you can use tomorrow.

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