The Intentional Parent - Plugged into Education (Bill Crockett)

EPISODE SYNOPSIS
The Tenth episode discusses ways alternatives to the traditional model of eductation with our guest, Bill Crockett who is the principal of a free online school in Southern California. Capistrano Connections Academy gives students the flexibility to learn at home with a curriculum that meets rigorous state education standards with a program that offers:
A challenging, K--12 curriculum developed by leading education experts.
Instruction from state-certified teachers experienced in online instruction.
Support from trained counselors, principals, and administrative staff

GUEST BIO
Principal Bill Crockett joined Capistrano Connections Academy (CapoCA) as Principal in June 2011. He brings 15 years of experience in middle and high school education with an extensive background in technology, education leadership and independent learning. Mr. Crockett holds master's degree in educational leadership.
At CapoCA one of his main focuses as principal is to ensure the virtual school continues to maintain maximum communication on all fronts by further building relationships between parents, teachers and students.
Prior to joining CapoCA, Crockett served as the secondary principal at Monterey High School in Monterey, Calif. He also served as the chairman for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Self-Study committee, where he was responsible for high school online learning courses. Mr. Crockett completed his undergraduate degree at Pepperdine University and then obtained his Master of Arts degree from Point Loma Nazarene University.

ADDITIONAL LINKS, ETC.
http://www.connectionsacademy.com/home.aspx
http://www.the21stcenturyteacher.com/

EPISODE BREAKDOWN
00:00 Intro
01:00 Greg introduces Principal Bill Crockett
02:00 Greg introduces the virtual school model
02:20 Please explain virtual schools and the Connections Academy.
04:10 How does this differ from home schooling?
04:40 What types of teachers work in virtual schools?
05:10 What kind of students go to online school?
06:30 What is a typical lesson or school day like? How much flexibility do students have with their schedules?
08:50 How does this Flexibility help students to learn?
10:28 Greg mentions the Khan Academy and variations on this online learning model.
11:47 What hurdles do you face? Greg and Bill discuss traditional socialization in schools and how online students gain these skills.
13:05 Is there any set expectations on how much social interaction kids get?
13:59 Some think this kind of education is better suited to older kids whohave matured more socially. Do you find this to be the case?
15:55 Bill explains the technology behind the school's private network.
18:05 Greg brings up the reality of public education and the dangers facing our children every day.
19:35 How varied is Connection's curriculum and are Advance Placement classes available?
20:50 Greg introduces Alanna, a senior at Capistrano Connections Academy.
21:48 Alanna, what was your reason for becoming a virtual student?
22:51 What do you like about the school?
23:30 How much time do your parents spend in this process?
24:06 What do you do with your time outside of school?
25:18 What are your plans after graduating?
25:44 Greg asks about the socialization issues, friends and did she miss out on prom?
27:05 Alanna explains how she has grown friendships through the online school.
27:44 Back to Bill: What is required of the parents?
31:26 How are colleges responding to virtual schooling? And how prepared are these students for college?
36:04 How does a parent evaluate whether this model works for them?
36:41 What do you think about some of the other online school models, including those of Stanford, Middlebury, and Phoenix University?
39:24 Greg and Bill discuss the need for alternatives and flexibility to best educate individuals in today's economy and fast changing climate.
40:54 Do you see virtual schooling continuing to grow?
43:23 What skills do you look for in a teacher?
44:00 Alanna answers Greg's question about her favorite teacher.
45:10 Bill explains where to get more information on Connections and to inquire about teaching positions.
46:10 Wrap up.