There is no better way to start the second 100 episodes of The Old School then with a return appearance of Dr. Paul Weinhold. In this episode, the three readers discuss their first literary influences - either authors or literary characters. The three also discuss the notion of younger generations and the reading of entire books. This includes a look at curriculum as well as how testing has impacted the reading of books by students; be they good or bad ramifications.

Please check out Dr. Weinhold's first appearance, where the conversation took the episode into a deep dive of Shakespeare.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6M8FT60opIHa4QsTKVG8gB?si=c1b067ca7f69493f

Correction: Mr. Miller got tongue-tied with his two references of Sherlock Holmes' books - he meant to refer to the A Study in Scarlet and The Sign of Four.

This episode of the Old School is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts, over some Scotch and snacks, sit side by side to look back at how the podcast has developed over the last 100 episodes and what might happen in the coming years. It is a collection of shared stories, ideas of what's ahead and the people who have listened to the hosts ramble - sometimes coherently and intelligently - about the issues facing education and some not-so-serious experiences such as travel, history and culture. The hosts also want to make sure that the listeners know how much they are appreciated and valued - the hosts are humbled by those who choose to listen and are forever grateful.

Consider leaving a comment about an episode or moment you've appreciated or enjoyed the most.

During the Old School's 99th episode, the hosts dive into their favorite films - but not necessarily the best films. One film from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, the list is meant to show the films that most impacted the hosts throughout their lives. Additionally, the hosts asks listeners to consider joining the conversation in the comments, either to add your own favorite films or to tell the hosts how well they are doing. If you do not like the episode, in the words of Rich Lowery from The Editors podcast, forget anything was said about leaving a comment or rating the podcast.

This episode of the Old School is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller, trying to sound as even handed as possible, discuss what they see as the future of the teaching profession. While good things and people exist in the profession, other forces could irrevocably alter the profession. The two hosts consider what teaching might look like, the training of teachers and what it means to educate the youth of America.

Some of the issues discussed in this episode are also discussed at length in the book The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Pick up a copy at Amazon.com.

Today is Dr. Bourgeois' turn to air his grievances. Unlike Mr. Miller, he has many more than one. The hosts go through a litany of issues in an attempt to bring solace and ultimate comfort to Dr. Bourgeois, as Mr. Miller experienced last week. The episode ends with the promise of more grievances in future episodes...but not right away...maybe.

This episode sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

In what was meant to be a litany of lamentations from both hosts, Mr. Miller's top concern takes priority - as does baseball. While the hosts promise a more equitable presentation of gripes for a later date, the hosts focus on baseball and the ambivalence of owners to the suffering of fans.

The hosts compare the lack of representation of fans to those fans of German soccer, as detailed in episode 79, linked here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7uttUhkJ0UpfrFWsivztLx?si=c554-gx7SfiH-e5PEyWWaQ

This episode is sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts tackle an aspect of education that has always been present - tutorials. The hosts examine the qualities and effectiveness as well as the difference between tutoring in school with one's teacher and hiring it out to be done - a field of endeavor that Mr. Miller is currently engaged in. Not only does tutoring look different in or out of school, but also through various subjects.

Are you interested in a wider look at the education system, check out the hosts' book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, available exclusively through Amazon.

This episode is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Once more, the hosts are proud to present the estimable Dr. Alex Fingers to the podcast. This time, Dr. Fingers speaks on the value of sports and extracurricular activities to the student in their academic pursuits. From personal experience, Dr. Fingers speaks on the lessons learned from winning, losing and the tireless preparation for the moment.

If you would enjoy a detailed look at the forces at work within public education, the good, the bad and the possible solutions, insofar as we know the solutions, check out our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Available through Ahart Education and for sale exclusively through Amazon.