We Have Hope

Love Your School West Virginia

Every Family Should Be Able To Answer The Question, “Do You Love Your School?” With A Resounding “YES!”When it comes to education in West Virginia, families have so many possibilities… We’re here to help families explore the many school options available and celebrate each one through creative storytelling, relevant and fun resources, and practical support so every family can love their school!

read less
EducationEducation

Episodes

63. Introducing Our Newest Member at Love Your School WV, Tiffany Hoben
Mar 26 2024
63. Introducing Our Newest Member at Love Your School WV, Tiffany Hoben
Welcome back to We Have Hope! We are excited for you to meet our newest member here at Love Your School - Tiffany Hoben!Tiffany taught for over a decade in the school system with a focus on Civics & Government. She eventually went on to secure a district position, helping teachers with instructional coaching and curriculum support. From there, she moved into a board of education role in Florida, where Governor DeSantis had rolled out the Civics Literacy Excellence Initiative, helping implement the new Civics & Government standards and providing professional development and support. After traveling to West Virginia, her family fell in love with the area and felt called to be here. With her educational contacts, Tiffany was connected to Love Your School, and the rest is history! She is now the Director of Innovation Hub at Love Your School and the Director of Educational Partnerships & Strategies at Cardinal Institute. Tiffany has a passion for seeing the advancement of educational options in West Virginia by helping edupreneurs around the state.Tune in and get to know Tiffany as she shares her heart and about this exciting new hub coming to Love Your School West Virginia.Episode Highlights:Meet Tiffany Hoben!Tiffany’s background.Learn about Tiffany’s new role with LYS!All about WV Innovation Hub.More on Guest: WV Innovation Hub Website (Will go LIVE 4/1/24)More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgwww.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
62. Wisest Learners with Dr. Wallace Panlilio and Dr. Artyom Zinchenko
Mar 12 2024
62. Wisest Learners with Dr. Wallace Panlilio and Dr. Artyom Zinchenko
Join us as we interview the authors, Dr. Wallace Panlilio and Dr. Artyom Zinchenko, both esteemed educators with PhDs in Educational Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience. Together, they have crafted a modern and practical guidebook called Wisest Learners for parents, offering invaluable insights and strategies to nurture inquisitive, motivated, and triumphant lifelong learners.During the interview, we explore the transformative power of intentional parenting and its profound impact on a child's educational journey. The authors share their expertise on parental strategies, learning foundations, and learning strategy management, drawing from years of practical experience and research.Listeners will discover the connection between parents and their young learners and how to foster a passion for acquiring new information. Through their enlightening and transformative insights, parents will be empowered to equip their children with the tools they need to excel academically and in life.Tune in to this episode to learn how to create an environment that fosters curiosity, motivation, and a genuine love for learning in your child. With the right tools and strategies, you can empower your child to become a lifelong learner, ready for success in any endeavor they choose. Don't miss out on this empowering discussion with two leading experts in the field of education and parenting!Episode Highlights:Introduction to Dr. Wallace Panlilio and Dr. Artyom Zinchenko.Wisest LearnersParent’s engagement in their children’s educationMore on Our Guests: Visit Wisestlearners.comFollow Wisest Learners on FacebookFollow Wisest Learners on InstagramOrder your copy Here!More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgwww.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
59. Wild & Wonderful Enrichment with Jodie Witmer
Jan 30 2024
59. Wild & Wonderful Enrichment with Jodie Witmer
We’re excited to have Jodie Witmer, owner and founder of Wild & Wonderful Enrichment with us on the show today. Jodie started her career in education in the summers of her college years, working with kids in small groups. She graduated with a Bachelors in Elementary Education from Shepherd University. When her son turned three, they started forest school, and she shares that it was their first introduction to homeschool. She went on to eventually enroll him in public kindergarten, but during his first grade year, she felt that they needed a transition.After attending a workshop, Jodie’s eyes were opened to so many educational possibilities & ideas. She began homeschooling her son, and wanted to open up a place for other homeschool families to bring their children for enrichment activities. The idea of Wild and Wonderful Enrichment was born.Wild and Wonderful Enrichment offers small groups, hands-on learning, and exploration of nature for homeschool students. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents who want their kids to get additional enrichment classes in addition to what they are already receiving in their homeschool education.Check out this episode for more information on this educational opportunity!Episode Highlights:Intro to Jodie.Jodie’s educational background.How Jodie was introduced to homeschool.The idea of an enrichment program.Wild & Wonderful Enrichment.More on Guest: Email Jodie: wildandwonderfulenrichment@gmail.comFind Wild & Wonderful Enrichment on FacebookVisit Jodie’s Website Here!Check Out Wild & Wonderful Enrichment’s YouTube ChannelFollow Wild & Wonderful Enrichment on InstagramJodie’s TPT StoreMore on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
58. Join Us for Our National School Choice Week Event!: The Morgantown School Fair with Amanda Kieffer of the Cardinal Institute
Jan 16 2024
58. Join Us for Our National School Choice Week Event!: The Morgantown School Fair with Amanda Kieffer of the Cardinal Institute
National School Choice Week is coming up, and we’ve partnered with the Cardinal Institute to put on a school fair! On the show today, I’m chatting with Amanda Kieffer at the Cardinal Institute about National School Choice Week. We’re diving deeper into the meaning, the reason we celebrate, and sharing details about our upcoming school fair!We’d love to invite you to join us for our School Fair on 1/27/24 from 10am-1pm at the Erickson Alumni Center in Ruby Grand Hall in Morgantown, WV. We will have tons of vendors, including education service providers, members of the Hope Scholarship staff, food, swag, entertainment, and lots of fun activities for the kids!For more information, please follow the links below!Episode Highlights:We are partnering with the Cardinal Institute for a School Fair!What is National School Choice Week?Why do we celebrate?What to expect.Details on the fair.How to Register.What We Have Hope means to Amanda.More on the Morgantown School Fair: Visit the Morgantown School Fair Website Here!Learn more about the Cardinal InstituteVisit the Cardinal Institute FacebookFollow the Cardinal Institute on InstagramTo Register as a Provider, email amanda@cardinalinstitute.com or kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgMore on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
55. Raising the Bar for West Virginia’s Education with Heidi Treu
Dec 19 2023
55. Raising the Bar for West Virginia’s Education with Heidi Treu
We’re excited to have Heidi Treu back on the show with us today! Heidi is the co-founder and executive Director of West Virginia Academy,  West Virginia's first tuition-free wraparound community school.​In just its 2nd year, West Virginia Academy was announced as a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Yass Prize Award for education. The Yass Prize rewards programs that are sustainable, transformational, outstanding, and permissionless, and finalists were selected based on a rigorous assessment involving an initial application, multiple interviews, a site visit, and participation in several workshops and conferences held in Cleveland, Miami, New York, and virtually.We enjoyed catching up with Heidi and learning more about The Yass Prize and West Virginia Academy!Episode Highlights:West Virginia Academy’s successful first year.YASS Prize Semi-Finalist.Raising the bar in education.The ‘Show What You Know’ Assembly.West Virginia Academy’s ambassador program.Heidi’s hope for WV.More on West Virginia Academy: West Virginia Academy WebsiteEmail: info@westvirginiaacademy.org Find West Virginia Academy on FacebookLearn more about The Yass PrizeArticle - West Virginia Academy - Yass Prize FinalistMore on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
54. Putting Faith in Action at Trinity Christian School
Dec 12 2023
54. Putting Faith in Action at Trinity Christian School
Trinity Christian School is more than just an educational institution; it's a nurturing community built on the belief that a strong foundation in academics, faith, and character development creates resilient individuals. At Trinity, students embark on a transformative journey where academic excellence harmonizes with spiritual growth. The school believes that a strong partnership between students, parents, and faculty creates an environment where each student can thrive and reach their full potential. Emphasizing the biblical principle that "a chord of 3 strands is not easily broken," Trinity Christian School recognizes the importance of unity between families, educators, and the church. This philosophy shapes the admission process, ensuring that prospective students align with the school's values and mission.Tune in to learn more about this unique schooling option!Episode Highlights:Introduction to Trinity Christian School.What Trinity Christian School has to offer.Requirements to attend.A chord of 3 strands is not easily broken.The admission process.What Trinity is looking for in their teachers.The accessibility of the Hope Scholarship.How to get connected with Trinity Christian School.More on Trinity Christian School: Visit Trinity Christian School’s WebsiteCheck out Trinity Christian School on Instagram More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
53. From Teaching to Homeschooling - Insights from Education Consultant Kristen Adkins
Dec 5 2023
53. From Teaching to Homeschooling - Insights from Education Consultant Kristen Adkins
In today's insightful conversation, we had the pleasure of speaking with Kristen Adkins, an education consultant and former foster parent deeply entrenched in the foster care system. Kristen's journey is one of immense transitions, highlighting the transformative power of community, compassion, and finding one's purpose.Kristen embarked on her professional journey as a dedicated medical professional, committed to on-call shifts that often stretched into weekends and late nights. However, the demanding schedule led her to grapple with the reality of being away from her family. Driven by a desire for a more balanced life, she pivoted towards education, obtaining her teaching certificate and passionately teaching for four years.As a mother of four children, managing a full-time teaching job became overwhelming. The pivotal moment arrived when two of her adopted children faced challenges within their private school environment. Seeking alternatives, Kristen turned to a friend experienced in homeschooling for guidance. This encounter sparked a life-altering decision to homeschool her children, prompting Kristen to downsize her home to afford the opportunity to stay home and prioritize her family's needs.Transitioning from traditional teaching to homeschooling opened doors for Kristen. She ventured into co-op teaching environments and eventually began conducting portfolio reviews.Today, as an education consultant deeply involved in homeschooling and the foster care system, Kristen Adkins embodies resilience, compassion, and a profound dedication to the holistic well-being of children and families.As we navigate our own transitions, her insights remind us of the immeasurable value in finding our community—a supportive network that propels us forward, nurtures our passions, and helps us evolve into the best versions of ourselves.Episode Highlights:Intro to Kristen Adkins.Kristen’s journey through Foster Care, Adoption, & Respite.Homeschooling and the role it played.What Kristen is doing now.Finding your community.More on Kristen: Visit Kristen’s Website Here!More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
52. Helping Students Capitalize on Their Strengths with Dr. Norrine Russell
Nov 28 2023
52. Helping Students Capitalize on Their Strengths with Dr. Norrine Russell
In today’s conversation, we are chatting with Dr. Norrine Russell, founder of Russell Coaching for Students. Russell Coaching specializes in helping students with complex ADHD. This may look like a very unmotivated teen who struggles with homework, organization, planning, and more. Their coaches are experts in providing services to students with multiple diagnoses.Dr. Norrine shares about Russell Coaching, their method, trends in education, options, and so much more in this enlightening episode. She reminds us that, as parents, we have the freedom to make individual choices regarding each of our children’s education every year. Please join us for this empowering interview as Dr. Norrine dives into some of the most challenging educational topics we face today. Episode Highlights:Introduction to Dr. Norrine Russell and Russell Coaching for Students.What are executive functioning skills?More about Russell Coaching for Students’ coaching model.Capitalizing on student’s strengths.Trends in education.Helping parents identify their options.Making individual choices for your student.Finding your community.Getting connected with Russell Coaching.What does We Have Hope mean to Dr. Norrine?More on Dr. Norrine & Russell Coaching for Students: Visit Russell Coaching’s Website Here!Find Russell Coaching on InstagramFind Russell Coaching on FacebookConnect with Dr. Norrine on LinkedInFind Russell Coaching on PinterestWatch Russell Coaching on YouTubeMore on Love Your School:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
51. Embracing the Family’s Role in Education with Melissa Mohr of City On A Hill Christian Academy
Nov 21 2023
51. Embracing the Family’s Role in Education with Melissa Mohr of City On A Hill Christian Academy
In today’s episode, we are chatting with Melissa Mohr, Head of School at City On A Hill Christian Academy. Melissa has been in the private school setting for 19 years and in education for even longer. City On A Hill opened in the fall of 2022 after Melissa and a group of educators saw a need for another schooling option and teamed up to fill that need. In its inaugural year, the school had over 50 students in attendance from grades K5 through 12. With classes capped at 15 students, the school is set to begin its second year in the fall with close to 100 students. With a four-day in-class week, Biblical integration is at the forefront of their curriculum. Fridays are utilized as homeschool days with enrichment activities to support what they’ve learned in class.Tune in to hear more about this young and exciting schooling option!Episode Highlights:Background on Melissa Mohr.How COAH got started.Logistics & class sizes.Overview of COAH beliefs & standards.What is a micro-school?Embracing the importance of family time.Every child is different.What hope means to Melissa.More on City On A Hill Christian Academy: COAH WebsiteFind COAH on FacebookFollow COAH on InstagramMore on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
50. Making Science Accessible with Scott Burns of Home Science Tools
Nov 14 2023
50. Making Science Accessible with Scott Burns of Home Science Tools
In this episode, we delve into the world of making science an exciting journey for families and students. Our guest, Scott Burns from Home Science Tools, joins us to explore the ways in which their company is revolutionizing the accessibility of science education.Scott shares insights into the challenges students and families face in accessing quality science resources and how Home Science Tools is bridging this gap. From hands-on kits to specialized tools, they're empowering budding scientists and curious minds to explore scientific concepts in a practical, engaging manner.Tune in as we discuss the importance of making science fun and accessible, the impact of hands-on learning, and the role these resources play in nurturing a love for science in students of all ages. Join us for a conversation that uncovers the keys to sparking curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of science among families and students.Episode Highlights:Background on Home Science Tools.Hands-on learning.Core values.Diving into dissection kits.Making science accessible.HST’s hope.More on Home Science Tools: Home Science Tools WebsiteCheck out HST microscopes!Find Home Science Tools on FacebookFollow Home Science Tools on InstagramHome Science Tools on PinterestEnter to WIN a Microscope!More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!Visit our Instagram HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
45. Advocating for Our Children with Kathie Hess Crouse
Oct 10 2023
45. Advocating for Our Children with Kathie Hess Crouse
Kathie Hess Crouse serves as a member of the House of Delegates. She is a mom of 5, past president of West Virginia Home Educators, the first female athletic commissioner for the West Virginia Athletic Commission, and she currently runs the largest Facebook group for homeschoolers called The Unsocialized Homeschoolers of West Virginia. Kathie’s three oldest children graduated from public school. An unfortunate experience with one of her younger children’s kindergarten teacher caused her to pull him out of public school. She weighed her options between private school and homeschooling and ultimately decided to homeschool her two younger children. Kathie has been in the school choice arena since 2010 and has dedicated much of her time and resources to empower parents to homeschool if they feel led to. She believes that every parent has the ability to teach their children to love to learn.Tune in to learn more about homeschooling options and get connected with helpful resources!Episode Highlights:Background on Kathie.Kathie’s Children’s schooling experiences.We have to advocate for our kids.The Unsocialized Homeschoolers of West VirginiaBeing a resource for parents.More on Kathie: The Unsocialized Homeschoolers of West Virginia Facebook GroupContact Kathie: 304-533-6396More on Love Your School/Links Mentioned in Episode:Visit Our Show Notes Page HERE!Kim@loveyourschoolwv.orgLeah@loveyourschoolwv.org www.loveyourschool.orgVisit our Facebook HERE!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.