In this insightful episode, we embark on a journey with Joanna Maliti, an educator who transitioned from the conventional classroom setting to the innovative world of homeschooling. As the co-founder of Home and School Tutoring Pods, Joanna has reimagined education to break free from the constraints of traditional schooling. Her journey is driven by a commitment to inclusive education and a desire to tailor learning experiences to each child’s unique needs.
Joanna’s transition from classroom teaching to homeschooling was inspired by the limitations she observed within traditional education systems. In her role as an educator, she noticed the lack of adequate support for students not meeting benchmarks and the overwhelming pressures placed on young children. This motivated her to homeschool her own child, valuing hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond the confines of a classroom. Her family’s three-month journey to 11 national parks exemplifies how education can be transformed into an engaging and memorable adventure.
Home and School Tutoring Pods: Joanna’s Journey
One of the most compelling aspects of homeschooling is its inherent flexibility. Unlike the rigid structure of conventional school days, homeschooling allows for creativity and adaptation to the rhythms of family life. Joanna emphasizes that learning can occur in everyday activities such as cooking and playing with Legos, turning these moments into powerful educational opportunities. By understanding each child’s learning style, parents can create a personalized education model that nurtures growth and curiosity.
Inclusive Education and Homeschooling
A significant topic discussed in the episode is the impact of eye tracking issues on reading abilities. These challenges are often misinterpreted as learning disabilities like dyslexia. Joanna sheds light on the importance of distinguishing between vision issues and learning disabilities, advocating for eye tracking tests to identify underlying problems. This nuanced understanding can lead to targeted interventions, such as vision therapy, which can significantly improve reading fluency and comprehension.
Tutoring Pods
The episode also delves into the concept of homeschool pods, which gained prominence during the pandemic. These pods, created by Joanna and her team, offer a community-based approach where certified teachers guide collaborative learning environments. This model combines the benefits of homeschooling with professional educational expertise, providing a supportive alternative for families seeking flexibility in curriculum choices.
Bringing Back Phonics
Joanna’s insights extend to the reintroduction of phonics in reading instruction, particularly in Tennessee schools. After years of declining reading scores due to a whole language approach, phonics has been reintroduced to address phonemic awareness issues. Joanna discusses how this shift supports struggling readers and emphasizes the importance of a thoughtful observation process to understand each child’s learning journey.
Learning Challenges & Beyond
In exploring alternative education models, the episode highlights the essential role of prenatal health and its potential impact on learning challenges. Joanna connects modern lifestyles, like increased screen time, to the prevalence of eye tracking issues, encouraging listeners to consider holistic approaches to children’s development.
Joanna Maliti’s journey from the classroom to homeschooling freedom is a testament to the power of reimagining education. Her experiences underscore the importance of flexibility, creativity, and a personalized approach to learning. By embracing these principles, parents can enrich their children’s educational experiences and foster a lifelong love of learning. This episode serves as an inspiring guide for those considering or already on the homeschooling path, offering practical methods and insights to navigate the complexities of education today.
Watch or Listen
The Radiant Mission Podcast | Episode 109
Host: Rebecca Twomey @theradiantmission
Guest: Joanna Meliti @homeandschooltutoring
Thank you for listening to The Radiant Mission podcast! We are on a mission to encourage and inspire you on your walk with Christ and as you journey through life.
In Episode 109, we learn about Joanna’s journey from classroom teaching to co-founding Home & School Tutoring Pods, and her mission to support homeschool families.
Bible Verses Mentioned in Home & Tutoring Pods:
- Romans 15:13
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