56. Understanding the International Baccalaureate: Perspectives from Carolina Prep
Meet the International Baccalaureate (IB)—what it is, how it works, and why it might be the right fit for your student. If you’ve heard of the IB Program (International Baccalaureate) but felt unsure how it differs from a traditional education, this episode is for you. I’m joined by two wonderful guests from Carolina Preparatory Academy—formerly the middle and upper school of The Montessori School of Raleigh, rebranded in 2025—who live and breathe IB every day: Michelle Miller, IB Coordinator, and Dave Ratledge, IB Math/Science Team Lead.
In this episode, we cover:
IB 101: When and why IB was developed, its mission, and core tenets.
Depth over memorization: How IB cultivates critical thinking, inquiry, and real-world problem-solving—not just regurgitation.
IB vs. traditional models: Key differences in teaching style, assessment, and classroom experience.
IB vs. Honors/AP: What the workload actually looks like, how rigor compares, and who tends to thrive.
Common misconceptions: Especially around difficulty level and “how much is too much.”
Montessori alignment: How Carolina Preparatory Academy’s IB program naturally connects with Montessori principles and practices.
Whether you’re IB-curious or actively exploring advanced pathways, you’ll walk away with a clear, parent-friendly understanding of what IB is—and how it can shape confident, capable learners for life.
LInks:
Carolina Preparatory Academy: https://www.carolinaprepnc.org/
The Montessori School of Raleigh: https://www.msr.org/
Triangle School Consulting: https://triangleschoolconsulting.com
--------
52:13
--------
52:13
55. Breaking Down the ISEE & SSAT: A Parent’s Guide to Private School Entrance Exams
If you're a parent exploring private elementary, middle, or high schools for your child, chances are you've heard about the ISEE and SSAT tests. In this episode, we're joined by Sheba Brown, founder of a trusted test prep company and longtime educator, to break down everything you need to know about these entrance exams.
We cover the key differences between the two tests—question types, testing formats, and scoring systems—plus how to decide which exam might be the better fit for your child. Sheba also shares practical tips on when to start preparing and how to use practice tests effectively.
Most importantly, we zoom out to talk about the bigger picture: how these scores fit into the overall admissions process and why they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Whether you're just starting the private school journey or deep in the application season, this episode will help you feel more confident and informed.
A+ Test Prep Resources Page: https://aplushigherscores.com/resources/
--------
42:41
--------
42:41
54. How to Prevent Summer Learning Loss Without Killing the Fun
Summer should be full of popsicles, late bedtimes, and muddy adventures—but what about all that learning your child worked so hard for during the school year?
In this episode, Sarah breaks down the facts around summer learning loss (aka “the summer slide”) and why it matters—especially for young children. But don’t worry—this isn’t a lecture or a list of pricey programs. You’ll walk away with simple, affordable, and low-pressure ways to keep your child’s brain engaged this summer, without sacrificing fun or freedom.
From board games to bedtime reading, and even letting kids be bored, Sarah shares practical tips and a big dose of reassurance. Because yes—your child can keep learning all summer long…and still be a kid.
Resources Mentioned
Episode 1- Is Public School Right for My Child?
Episode 4- Public School Parent Interview re: Year-Round Schooling
Episode 38- Game On! All About Game-Based Learning
Best Summer Games and Books
--------
15:37
--------
15:37
53. Relocating with Kids? What to Know About School Searches
Moving to a new area with school-aged kids? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not the only one feeling overwhelmed. In this episode, we’re digging into one of the most stressful parts of relocating: choosing a school.
We discuss why relying on online ratings and rankings like GreatSchools might be leading you in the wrong direction—and what you should be focusing on instead. You’ll hear the biggest pitfalls families run into when using school ratings to choose where to live, and walk away with practical steps for structuring your search around fit, not just test scores.
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, this episode will help you feel more grounded, more informed, and more confident in your next steps.
💛 Need extra support with your school search during a move? Learn more about Sarah’s relocation consulting services at TriangleSchoolConsulting.com.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why school ratings can be misleading—and what they actually measure
How to ask the right questions when touring schools (even virtually!)
What to prioritize when building your school list
How to get honest, on-the-ground insight from local families
How a school consultant can make your transition easier
📩 Know a friend who’s moving? Send this episode their way—they’ll thank you later.
--------
15:22
--------
15:22
52. Please Yell at My Kids: Rebuilding the Parenting Village in America
What if the key to raising confident, independent kids isn’t doing more—but letting go a little? In this episode, we sit down with Marina Lopes, author of Please Yell at My Kids, to explore how community shapes childhood. Drawing from years of travel and conversations with parents around the globe, Marina shares insights into how different cultures support both children and caregivers. We talk about the loneliness of American parenting, the pressure to perform, and why the breakdown of extended families and community ties impacts our kids more than we realize. From spontaneous neighborhood playdates to rethinking our approach to parental control, this conversation invites us to imagine a more connected, less anxious way of raising children—one where we trust others, embrace imperfection, and build a village around our kids.
The Education Breakdown
Facebook | Instagram
Helping parents find the best school for their child by exploring different educational methods through interviews with teachers, administrators and parents.
Ireland