Public Education Unfiltered
By Educators. For Educators. Public education is facing new challenges, and it’s time for real talk. Public Education Unfiltered, hosted by public education expert Brian J. Stephens, goes beyond the headlines to tackle the biggest challenges facing public school districts— without the sugar coating. Through raw, unfiltered conversations with superintendents, policymakers, and education reform leaders, this podcast breaks down the real issues affecting schools today, from chronic absenteeism and student recruitment to funding struggles and policy shifts. But this isn’t just talk— it’s about real-world solutions that help educators, administrators, and decision-makers take action. If you care about the future of public education, this is the podcast you need to hear. Have a topic you want to hear about next? Email caroline@caissaps.com to share your thoughts.
Episodes
This episode dives into the legal and legislative battle over religious displays in U.S. public school classrooms. We unpack why the Ten Commandments were originally banned, explore the efforts to reverse that decision in prominent Supreme Court cases like Stone v. Graham, and examine what’s at stake for public school districts nationwide. You’ll also hear compelling arguments from both supporters and opponents of these laws, offer...
Learn who benefits and who gets left behind in the education budget recently passed by the Texas Legislature. From promised teacher raises for only 50% of staff to missed opportunities for traditional public schools, the universal voucher program in Texas raises questions about its impact and the future. With an increasing number of traditional public school districts in Texas facing budget deficits since last year, the funding cut...
School choice is gaining momentum across the country, with initiatives like vouchers, education savings accounts, and charter school expansions moving quickly through state and federal legislatures. Supporters say these programs empower parents and promote healthy competition, but the real impact on public schools is more complicated. In this episode, we unpack what’s happening on the ground and what it means for the future of publ...
A recent Supreme Court decision has reshaped how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is applied— and public school districts across the country will feel the impact. In this episode, we break down what the ruling means, why it matters, and how it raises the legal standards schools must meet in serving students with disabilities.
Through clear explanations and real-world examples, you’ll learn how ADA-based lawsuits are...
We are continuing the conversation about the impact and future of the Department of Education. This is the second part to Public Education Unfiltered’s episode on the potential ED shutdown. Discover the misplaced blame that often gets cast on the wrong groups and how critics are focusing on the wrong issues. Hear why we need to be rewarding results we actually want, not just standardized tests and graduation rates.
What actually is the department of education? A question many are asking recently, so learn what the department of education does and does not do, along with what the impacts of its “shutdown” will be. In the face of speculation and fear, find out what all of this means for public school districts across the country and what the future may look like after it's gone.
Ever feel stuck between options or overwhelmed by competing priorities? You’re not alone. This episode will give you a toolkit for making decisions. Dive into the mindsets that help leaders make tough calls. Unpack what it means to make the right choice, own it with conviction and have the courage to make adjustments when necessary.
Want strategies for budgeting and competing in a changing landscape? In this episode, learn more about how public school districts face mounting financial pressures and fierce competition from alternative schooling models. Inspired by the key themes in A Level Playing Field: Strategies To Ensure Public Schools' Success, discover actionable insights into effective budgeting and financial planning strategies for public schools. ...
This national poll gauges parents' attitudes on attendance and immigration policy changes, giving public school district leaders the tools they need to make the best decisions for their communities. Brian Stephens breaks down the top-line findings from the poll, and offers expert opinion on next steps for public schools.
Watch the full recording here.
Discover effective goal-setting strategies designed to drive success. Hear real-world examples of how public school districts can apply SMART goals to achieve meaningful results in both short- and long-term initiatives. While districts need the freedom to define their own success, rigid funding models and standardized expectations often create barriers. Tune in to explore how schools can navigate these challenges while maintaining ...
How Can K-12 Schools Improve Student Recruitment? Insights from Orange County Public Schools' James Gregory.
In this episode, James Gregory from Orange County Public Schools, FL, shares expert insights on student recruitment strategies, alongside host Brian Stephens. Break down the key similarities and differences between recruiting for higher education and public school districts— plus, learn about the proven strategies that d...
Meet Dianne Foletto, Associate Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications with Round Rock ISD! She talks about what they're doing in their district to fight back against competition and train their staff to view families as customers.
Orange County Public School's Chief Communicators Officer explains how they won a one-mill ad valorem property tax ballot initiative that helped fund the district. With this funding, they've been able to increase their graduation rate and have an art teacher in each school.
Brian Stephens sits down with Superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond for an in-depth conversation about the future of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Dr. Richmond shares his vision for driving success across the district, tackling key issues like school choice, voucher programs, student enrollment, and attendance.
With MSCS at a pivotal moment, this discussion explores the challenges and opportunities ahead— and what’s next for studen...
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