The Education Breakdown

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, we talk with Kelly Hayes, founder of Wonder Learning Center in Apex. Kelly shares how her path—from attorney to parent of twice-exceptional children—led her to create a learning environment designed specifically for gifted and neurodiverse middle and high school students.

Wonder operates as a hybrid micro-school for students in grades 6–12. In our conversation, Kelly walks us through:

The story behind founding Wonder and the family experiences that inspired it

The school’s guiding mission and philosophy

What a typical day/week looks like for students in the program

How learning is structured, including both guided instruction and unstructured time

Why Wonder prioritizes screen-free, relationship-focused learning

Examples of immersive learning experiences, including field trips, guest speakers, and creative interdisciplinary projects

Which students and families tend to thrive in the program—and important limitations families should understand

This episode is especially helpful for parents exploring:

Gifted education options

Neurodiverse-friendly learning environments

Small learning communities for middle and high school students

Alternatives to traditional school structures

To learn more about Wonder Learning Center, visit https://www.wonderlearningcenternc.com/

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Dr. Tiffany Boss and Amy Sanchez explore the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme and how it comes to life at Burton Elementary School. They break down the IB educational philosophy and explain what sets it apart from traditional elementary school models.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What the International Baccalaureate (IB) program is and how the Primary Years Programme supports whole-child development

How IB emphasizes global citizenship, collaboration, inquiry-based learning, and social-emotional growth

The ways IB builds critical thinking, research, and communication skills through project-based learning and experiences 

How IB differs from traditional education models in both structure and classroom experience

What teacher training, professional development, and the IB accreditation process involve

How Burton Elementary implements IB successfully and supports students academically and emotionally

Key considerations and questions for parents deciding whether an IB elementary program is the right fit for their child

This episode is especially helpful for parents researching International Baccalaureate programs, IB elementary schools, and progressive public school options that prioritize inquiry, student agency, and global-minded learning.

Burton Elementary website: https://www.dpsnc.net/o/burton

Burton Elementary tour signup: https://forms.gle/68V9KonodvB7QTDT6 (also linked on our website)

Contact Information:

Amy Sanchez | [email protected]

In this episode of The Education Breakdown, Sarah sits down with Uzma Bogwani and Michelle Hageman DeCamp from Carolina Friends School to explore how one school is redefining assessment—and why it works. Together, they unpack Carolina Friends School’s departure from traditional grading systems and shine a light on the powerful impact of narrative feedback, authentic learning experiences, and a whole-child approach to academic growth.

Listeners will learn how this Quaker-rooted school uses evidence-based assessment practices to foster confident, curious, self-directed learners who thrive in college and beyond.

What We Discuss:

Alternative assessment methods used at Carolina Friends School across grade levels

Authentic learning experiences and real-world engagement as core components of the curriculum

Formative assessment and ongoing feedback that help students understand their strengths and areas for growth

How colleges view narrative assessments, and why Carolina Friends students stand out in the admissions process

Personalized, pressure-free learning paths that allow students to pursue multiple interests

The benefits of risk-taking, curiosity, and self-discovery in environments without traditional grades

Common misconceptions about non-traditional assessment and how students transition successfully to higher education

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Stephanie Klupinski for a deep dive into the world of charter schools — how they work, what sets them apart, and how parents can make informed decisions.

Together, they explore:

What charter schools are and how they differ from traditional public schools

How funding and accountability work within the charter system

The admissions process, including lotteries and enrollment preferences

Special education services in charter schools and the legal responsibilities they hold

Key differences between states in how charter schools are authorized and supported

Common myths and misconceptions about charter schools

Stephanie also shares:

Her perspective on the history and future of the charter movement

The importance of collaboration between charter and traditional public schools

How parents can evaluate charter schools based on their family’s values, school governance, and transparency

Practical tips for parents, from visiting schools and attending board meetings to reviewing state report cards and teacher data

Whether you’re curious about charter schools, considering one for your child, or just want to better understand their role in public education, this episode provides a strong foundation to understanding the ins and outs of charter schools.

For more information about NC charter schools, visit https://triangleschoolconsulting.com/charter-schools-in-the-triangle/ 

For information on the mentioned episode about doing school tours, check out Episode 57 of The Education Breakdown Podcast  https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-ne4rd-1986e51

You’ve toured schools, flipped through glossy brochures, and listened to everyone tell you which school is “the best.” And yet… you still feel uncertain. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone. Choosing the right school for your child can feel overwhelming, especially when every option promises to be perfect.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the myths that often keep parents stuck during the school selection process. Using real stories from families I’ve worked with, I’ll help you see past flashy marketing, buzzwords, and reputations so you can focus on what truly matters: finding a school that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.

You’ll learn:

Why the “best” school on paper may not be the best fit for your child.

How to look beyond educational labels like Montessori, IB, or project-based learning to understand what’s happening day-to-day in the classroom.

The key things to notice during a school tour that reveal a school’s culture and philosophy in action.

How to stay focused on what really matters to your family — so you don’t get lost in the overwhelm of countless options.

If you’re in the middle of school tours or starting to explore different educational paths for next year, this episode is a must-listen. I’ll give you the tools and perspective to approach school selection with clarity and confidence — without feeling like you have to tour every school in your city.

Ready to narrow down your list of schools and find the right fit for your child? Schedule a consultation with me and let’s make this season of school choice feel manageable, focused, and aligned with your family’s values. Visit triangleschoolconsulting.com to connect.