Campus Conversations
Getting a quality education is something that every parent wants for their child, and nowadays more families are turning to non-public schools. But what does it mean to be a part of an "independent" school system?
Join Michael Shipma, Director of Marketing and Communications at the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA), as he breaks down the latest education news, technology, and helpful tips that can benefit parents and teachers alike.
Tune in every Tuesday for engaging commentary on independent schooling, and how the AISA is helping schools reach their full potential.
Episodes
21 episodes
A New Chapter at the Historic Southern Preparatory Academy
After more than a century since its inception, AISA member Southern Preparatory Academy is expanding to welcome both male and female day students, with the option to participate in the school's military program.Head of School Col. Corey ...
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Season 2
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Episode 11
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55:02
Challenges and Opportunities: The Outlook for Independent Education in 2025
The rapid evolution of modern education shows no signs of slowing down, leaving school leaders, teachers, and parents feeling lost and frustrated.In this week's episode, we sit down with Roy Alexander, Senior Consultant at Lighthouse Cou...
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Season 2
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Episode 10
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1:16:08
The Path to Student Wellness in the Modern Era
What defines a successful outcome for today's students? Is it good grades? Athletic achievement?In this week's episode, we talk with student wellness consultant Molly Gosline about how schools can define the best way to set their student...
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Season 2
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Episode 9
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1:02:57
Rethinking the School Week: 4-Day Weeks, Hybrid Learning, and More
Ever wondered what life would be like with a four-day school or work week?AISA member North Mobile Christian School is about to find out as it rolls out new attendance options for students. From four-day weeks to hybrid schedules and enr...
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Season 2
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Episode 8
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55:03
Glory to Glory: A New Approach to Student Health and Wellness
In this episode, we’re talking with Ashton Tate, the visionary behind Glory to Glory Fitness, about how his organization is making a difference in the lives of students across the country. Glory to Glory is focused on improving physical fitness...
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Season 2
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Episode 7
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36:08
Accelerate Education: Harnessing the Power of Customized Online Learning
This week, we dive into a new partnership between the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and Accelerate Education, a platform that offers digital, fully-customizable curriculum to meet the needs of our members.We're joined by ...
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Season 2
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Episode 6
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22:53
"Mattering" in the Era of School Choice: How to Ensure Every Student Feels Valued
In this week's episode, we dive into the concept of "mattering" in education, especially in light of the expanding school choice options in Alabama. As more students gain access to independent education, schools will need to foster environments...
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Season 2
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Episode 5
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39:39
School Choice and the Future of Education in Alabama
In this episode of Campus Conversations, we sit down with Michael McLendon, Executive Director of the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA), to discuss the vital issue of school choice in Alabama.Michael shares insights ...
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Season 2
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Episode 4
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31:12
Beyond the Numbers: Empowering Teachers to Improve Math Education
In this week's episode, Dr. Angela Barlow, professor of mathematics education and dean of the University of South Alabama College of Education and Professional Studies, shares her expertise on improving math instruction and empowering students....
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Season 2
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Episode 3
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38:59
Teaching with Technology: AI's Role in Modern Education
This week, we sit down with Eric Hudson, a leading expert on AI in education, and a board member of the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools (ATLIS). We dive into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the classroo...
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Season 2
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Episode 2
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38:53
Creating Community: The Advent of School Choice in Alabama
To kick off season 2 of Campus Conversations, host Michael Shipma talks with Pamela McLemore about how schools can create a welcoming community for new families. School choice is now a reality in Alabama, and with that comes new opport...
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Season 2
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Episode 1
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45:02
Marketing Strategies for Independent Schools
In this week's episode, we dive into the ever-evolving world of marketing and communications. We talk with Lee-Scott Academy's Strategic Communications Manager, Austin Scott, discussing topics from social media to community and alumni engagemen...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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31:27
Digital Literacy: Pioneering the Unknown World of Social Media, AI, and How My TV Knows My Favorite Food
When you think about the future of the internet, what comes to mind? Many aspects of our online lives afford us near-limitless information, entertainment, and convenience. But as technology races into the future, who's at the steering wheel?
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Season 1
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Episode 9
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44:02
Exploring Tinkercast
In this episode of Campus Conversations, we're diving into the imaginative world of Tinkercast. Join us as we explore how this dynamic platform fosters creativity and learning through sound and storytelling.We talk with C...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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23:58
National Dyslexia Awareness Month: A Discussion on Neurodivergence
Dyslexia and other learning disabilities pose unique challenges for both students and their teachers. This week, we talk one-on-one with Dr. Laura Fiveash, head of school at Spring Valley School in Birmingham, AL about how educators can best me...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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20:54
The CHOOSE Act: Preparing for a Historic Investment in Education
Soon, Alabama families will have access to thousands of dollars in funding for their child's education. It's a historic investment, and as of October 2024, Education Service Providers (or ESPs for short) can begin applying to participate.
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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33:44
S2 Pass: Streamlining School Finances
Join us as we explore how S2 Pass is helping the AISA and several member schools handle payments from parents, vendors, and visitors. This week's episode delves into how S2 Pass simplifies financial transactions for schools, making budg...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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18:15
Catching Up with an AISA Teacher of the Year
This week, we're talking with Holly Shaw, one of the AISA's 2024 Teachers of the Year, to talk about her journey to becoming a teacher at Faith Academy in Mobile, Alabama. We talk about navigating the evolving landscape of education, as well as...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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22:26
Free Cybersecurity Curriculum
In this week's episode, we dive into a FREE cybersecurity curriculum called RING (Regions Investing in the Next Generation). In collaboration with the NSA, this program was developed in part by the University of Alabama Huntsville as a way to b...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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23:50
Teachers Using AI in the Classroom
Join us for an insightful episode featuring two professors from the University of Alabama who are at the forefront of using Artificial Intelligence in the classroom. In this engaging conversation, we delve into how AI is transforming the landsc...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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36:57