Can education truly be a vehicle for social change and equity? Join us on "Make the Leap" as we explore this compelling question with Ronnese McKinney, a fervent advocate for student success and social mobility. Ronnese shares her personal journey and stresses the vital need to view education as a public good, not just a commodity. We'll discuss the historical context of the GI Bill and its impact on societal views about education, while highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing quality education and securing well-paying jobs. Brad, Kristen and George lend their voices to this essential conversation, posing critical questions about how we can address and mitigate these disparities.

Our discussion broadens as we delve into a multifaceted approach to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. We emphasize the importance of holistic and inclusive learning that starts early, even from preschool, to better prepare students for college and careers. Students from low-income backgrounds often face unique barriers, and by focusing on personal empowerment and nurturing a belief in their potential, we can help them envision a brighter future. The conversation sheds light on the need to start career conversations early and aims to create a supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed.

In the final chapter, we tackle the complex issue of equal access to quality education and the role of parental support in underserved communities. We discuss how systemic inequalities and logistical barriers, like transportation, can impede access to good schools. While emphasizing the importance of personalized learning and using available resources, we also debate the limitations of relying solely on parents to guide their children's education. Instead, we advocate for targeted support within schools, such as small class sizes and one-on-one tutoring, to level the playing field and ensure every child, regardless of background, has a fair chance at success. Join us for this thought-provoking episode and discover the steps we can take towards a more equitable education system.

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Can unequal access to technology create insurmountable barriers for low-income students, further widening the socioeconomic divide? Join hosts Brad Constant and George Grayeb on Make the Leap as we tackle this pressing issue head-on. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of the digital divide on low-income students, particularly in online and hybrid learning environments. With special guest Dr. Rhonda Baughman from Ross College Online, we dive into the challenges these students face, from the lack of reliable internet to the absence of functional devices, and how these hurdles limit their educational experiences and future prospects.

Dr. Baughman brings her valuable perspective as an online English and literature instructor, sharing her proactive approaches to create a supportive and equitable learning atmosphere. Through subtle prompts in assignments and open communication, she builds trust with her students, uncovering underlying issues that impact their academic performance. The discussion emphasizes the importance of rapid, consistent communication and a non-judgmental, collaborative environment where students can thrive despite challenging home environments.

As we look toward the future, we discuss the evolving role of technology in education and the critical need to equip students with essential digital skills. Dr. Baughman and our hosts address the importance of institutions like Ross College in bridging the digital divide through resources, training, and personalized support. The conversation concludes with reflections on the potential benefits of hybrid learning models and a preview of our next episode on education for social change. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on how we can all contribute to creating a more equitable digital learning landscape.

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Can financial stress and limited resources turn homes into battlegrounds for those already struggling to make ends meet? Listen as we unravel the complex web linking poverty, domestic violence, and health. We spotlight the heightened risks faced by women in disadvantaged groups and dissect how economic disparities in relationships can be weaponized by abusers. Kristen Beal, our insightful guest, delves into the multifaceted forms of abuse and the compounded hurdles marginalized individuals encounter when seeking help. Our discussion reveals the stark power dynamics at play in poorer communities and the far-reaching impacts on women's health and economic stability.

In our deep dive into support services, we explore the crucial role of culturally competent assistance—from crisis hotlines and emergency shelters to legal aid and healthcare. We underscore the specific vulnerabilities of immigrants and low-income families, shedding light on innovative solutions like discreet mobile apps and the integration of local resources with national hotlines. The conversation pivots to the urgent need for accessible resources, job opportunities for women, and the importance of paid leave. We wrap up by addressing the digital divide in education, proposing practical strategies to ensure equitable access to technology for all students. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and addressing the multifaceted challenges of domestic violence in impoverished communities.

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Stay up to date on Make the Leap by following us on our website, rosspodcast.com, Facebook and LinkedIn.