Impact of Educational Leadership Episode 233

Hosted by: I. D. III for Dr. Isaiah Drone III

| Dr. TR | Buddy Thornton |Jerry Green |

Choosing Friends Wisely

Helping teenagers steer the social landscape is a delicate challenge because their biological drive for peer acceptance is at its peak, often making direct parental prohibitions feel like an attack on their identity and inadvertently increasing the allure of "forbidden" friends. Rather than engaging in the uphill battle of dictating specific social circles, which frequently triggers defiance and classified information. Mentors and parents should shift their focus from dictating to empowerment. By equipping teens with a "Friendship TARGET" of internal values and critical thinking tools, we can help them evaluate their own social connections and make healthy choices that align with their well-being, turning a potential power struggle into a developmental opportunity for self-reliance.

Buddy Thornton: Not every social connection needs to be an intense friendship.

What are some coping strategies to categorize relationships, help manage energy, and expectations?

Dr. TR: How important is choosing your inner circles?

Jerry Green: Does technology help or hurt choosing friends wisely?

How do you spot green lights versus red lights when choosing how to place your friendship targets?

Dr. Isaiah Drone III Closing Remark

Impact of Educational Leadership Podcast

Podcast Host: Dr. Isaiah Drone III

Panel: Dr. Isaac Carrier, Jerry Green, Brian Roberson, Buddy Thornton, and Jerry Green.

In this episode of the "Impact of Educational Leadership" podcast, a panel of experts explores the urgent need to redefine high-quality instruction within the modern public school system. The discussion emphasizes that effective education must be a personalized, student-centered endeavor that meets learners at their individual starting points rather than aiming for a generic average. A central theme is the role of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and technology, which the panelists argue should serve as flexible guides to enhance engagement rather than rigid, automated substitutes for rigorous, human-led instruction. To address the post-pandemic crisis of student disengagement and chronic absenteeism, the speakers call for a radical shift in adult behavior, urging administrators to move beyond bureaucratic box-checking toward authentic instructional leadership and community trust. Ultimately, the dialogue posits that transforming schools requires making content relevant to students' lives and fostering a collaborative, "team approach" between educators, families, and students to ensure every child evolves into a fully functional adult.

Impact of Educational Leadership Episode 215 Hosted by: I. D. III for Dr. Isaiah Drone III

|Kaleigh Williams |Buddy Thornton

Positive Youth Development Framework Pt1

Positive youth development (PYD) is a holistic approach that focuses on building the strengths and competencies of young people, particularly those in disadvantaged communities. These communities often face numerous challenges,including socioeconomic barriers, limited access to resources, and social injustices. However, by leveraging the principles of PYD, we can foster resilience, empower youth, and create a brighter future for these individuals and their communities.Understanding Positive Youth Development Positive youth development is not just about preventing negative behaviors; it is a proactive approach that emphasizes the potential of young people. Youth in disadvantaged communities often wrestle with systemic issues, including poverty, violence, and limited access to quality education and healthcare. These challenges can hinder their aspirations and opportunities for growth. However, recognizing these barriers is the first step toward creating an effective PYD program.