ExcelinEd in Action Statehouse Spotlights is a weekly podcast that provides quick, timely updates about K-12 education legislation across the country. Hosted by...
Idaho's first school choice program | Rep. Wendy Horman
In this episode of Statehouse Spotlights host Ashley Mullins sits down with Idaho Representative Wendy Horman to discuss the Idaho Parental Choice Tax Credit. This groundbreaking legislation offers families a refundable tax credit of up to $5,500, or $7,500 for special education students, to cover private school and homeschool expenses, providing greater flexibility and opportunity in education. Rep. Horman shares more about the legislative groundwork and history behind the bill, its potential impact on education in Idaho and the road ahead for expanding school choice. Tune in to learn how this initiative could shape the future of learning in Idaho. Remember to join the conversation on social media. ExcelinEd in Action (@ExcelinAction) / X (twitter.com) ExcelinEd in Action (@excelinedinaction) • Instagram ExcelinEd in Action on Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Quick Update: Early March progress in key states
In this episode of Statehouse Spotlights, we break down the early March progress in education policy across key states. From expanding educational opportunity and boosting early literacy initiatives to tackling the math crisis and strengthening education-to-workforce pathways, lawmakers are making significant moves that could make a huge impact on families, teachers and students. Tune in as we walk through the biggest legislative wins so far and the states to watch as sessions continue. Remember to join the conversation on social media. ExcelinEd in Action (@ExcelinAction) / X (twitter.com) ExcelinEd in Action (@excelinedinaction) • Instagram ExcelinEd in Action on Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Advancing math education in Indiana classrooms | Rep. Jake Teshka
In this episode of Statehouse Spotlights, host Ashley Mullins sits down with Indiana Rep. Jake Teshka to discuss HB 1634, a legislative effort aimed at strengthening math proficiency and numeracy across Indiana. The bill introduces automatic enrollment for advanced middle school math courses, mandates statewide numeracy screenings for young learners and enhances teacher preparation programs to ensure evidence-based instructional strategies. But what does all of that mean for students, teachers and policymakers in other states? Listen to learn more about the motivations behind the bill, the challenges it aims to address and the expected impact on Indiana’s education system and workforce. Together, we’ll also highlight how stronger math outcomes can enhance the state’s economic competitiveness and ensure that Indiana students are equipped for high-demand careers in STEM and other critical fields. Tune in to learn how these policy changes could transform math education for all Hoosier students. Remember to join the conversation on social media. ExcelinEd in Action (@ExcelinAction) / X (twitter.com) ExcelinEd in Action (@excelinedinaction) • Instagram ExcelinEd in Action on Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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18:24
Quick Update: State session trends and emerging priorities
In this episode of Statehouse Spotlights, we explore the biggest education policy trends emerging from state legislative sessions in 2025. From expanding public and private school choice and early literacy initiatives to strengthening the teacher workforce and improving student outcomes in math, lawmakers across the country are making bold moves. Host Ashley Mullins breaks down the key priorities, what’s driving these shifts and what they mean for students, families and educators. Tune in as we dig deeper on the policies set to shape the future of learning this year. Remember to join the conversation on social media. ExcelinEd in Action (@ExcelinAction) / X (twitter.com) ExcelinEd in Action (@excelinedinaction) • Instagram ExcelinEd in Action on Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Florida Schools | Rep. Dana Trabulsy
On this episode, we’re diving into a pressing issue affecting students and schools across the nation—chronic absenteeism. This is a developing problem that is grabbing policymakers’ attention in the states. When we see education policy problems arise, Florida is often leading with innovative solutions. Here’s what we know: A staggering 30.9% of Florida students were chronically absent last school year, a rate that has surged by more than 50% in just a few years. To help us understand the scope of the problem—and what legislative solutions might be on the horizon—our host Ashley Mullins is joined by Rep. Dana Trabulsy, a longtime Florida education policy champion who is working to tackle this issue head-on. Remember to join the conversation on social media. ExcelinEd in Action (@ExcelinAction) / X (twitter.com) ExcelinEd in Action (@excelinedinaction) • Instagram ExcelinEd in Action on Facebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
ExcelinEd in Action Statehouse Spotlights is a weekly podcast that provides quick, timely updates about K-12 education legislation across the country. Hosted by the ExcelinEd in Action Advocacy team, we track and report on bills about several key student-centered policy areas, including early literacy, the teacher pipeline, school funding, the digital divide, education choice, reimagining learning, school accountability and college and career pathways. In a nutshell: The ExcelinEd in Action Statehouse Spotlights podcast is the perfect way to stay up to date on the latest education policy news and trends during state legislative sessions from a team of experts you can trust. Why should you listen?You'll find out about what’s trending in K-12 education policy in state legislatures.You'll stay informed on how bills are changing, stalling or advancingYou’ll learn which state legislative champions are shaping the future of education.You'll be inspired to take action to improve education for all students. Subscribe to ExcelinEd in Action Statehouse Spotlights today, and never miss an episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.