By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – In a rapidly changing world, the landscape of education is undergoing significant transformations. From the rise of technology in classrooms to the emergence of alternative schooling options such as micro schools and charter schools, educators, parents, and students are navigating a complex environment filled with challenges and opportunities. I had an opportunity to delve into the insights of education expert Joanne Jacobs, who has dedicated her career to exploring these topics and advocating for effective educational practices.
The Dilemma of Technology in Schools
The integration of technology in education has sparked heated debates among educators, parents, and policymakers. Jacobs highlights the growing trend of schools banning smartphones to combat distractions and improve student engagement. “There’s been a national movement,” she notes, citing the influence of figures like John Hattie, who advocate for reduced technology use in classrooms. Schools that have implemented phone bans report improved focus and communication among students, leading to a more conducive learning environment.
However, the effectiveness of these bans varies. Jacobs emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive school policy rather than leaving enforcement to individual teachers. Schools that adopt a unified approach, such as requiring students to place their phones in pouches during class, have witnessed positive results. Yet, challenges remain, as some students find ways to circumvent these rules, and parental concerns about safety and communication persist.
The Shift Towards Alternative Education Models
As traditional schooling faces scrutiny, alternative education models such as micro schools and charter schools are gaining traction. Jacobs explains that the pandemic prompted many parents to explore homeschooling and micro schooling options, leading to the formation of small, community-based educational settings. These micro schools often consist of small groups of students learning together, allowing for personalized instruction and a focus on social skills.
While some educators express skepticism about the effectiveness of these alternatives, Jacobs notes that they can provide valuable options for families seeking tailored educational experiences. The rise of education savings accounts and vouchers has further empowered parents to choose the best educational path for their children, fostering a more competitive environment among schools.
The Importance of Early Childhood Education
Jacobs advocates for a return to a more play-based approach in early childhood education, arguing that kindergarten has become overly academic. She recalls her own experiences in kindergarten, where play and social interaction were prioritized over rigorous academic instruction. “Kids need much more movement at home and at school,” she asserts, emphasizing the importance of allowing young children to develop social skills through play.
Research supports Jacobs’ claims, showing that early academic pressure can hinder children’s development and lead to disengagement from learning. By allowing kindergarteners to engage in play and exploration, educators can foster a love of learning that will benefit students in the long run.
The Changing Perception of Higher Education
As the cost of college continues to rise, many high school graduates are reconsidering their options. Jacobs highlights a growing trend of students opting out of traditional college pathways in favor of vocational training or alternative careers. “People become very conscious of the costs of college,” she explains, noting that many graduates are questioning the value of a degree in today’s job market.
The shifting landscape is particularly evident among young men, who are increasingly opting out of college in favor of trades and vocational programs. Employers are also changing their hiring practices, seeking candidates with specific certifications rather than traditional degrees. As Jacobs points out, “more math means more money,” underscoring the importance of skills that align with current job market demands.
The Role of Extracurricular Activities
Participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports and the arts, plays a crucial role in students’ academic success and overall development. Jacobs emphasizes the importance of teamwork and social skills learned through these activities. “Sports are great for kids,” she states, noting that they provide motivation and a sense of belonging that can positively impact academic performance.
Engaging in extracurricular activities not only fosters essential life skills but also helps students build resilience and confidence. Jacobs encourages parents to support their children’s involvement in various activities, recognizing that these experiences can enhance their educational journey.
A Call for Flexibility and Innovation in Education
As the education landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for educators, parents, and policymakers to remain open to new ideas and approaches. Joanne Jacobs’ insights underscore the need for flexibility in educational practices, whether through the integration of technology, the exploration of alternative schooling options, or a renewed focus on early childhood education.
For parents and educators seeking to navigate these changes, Jacobs encourages active engagement in their children’s learning experiences and a willingness to adapt to the shifting demands of the educational landscape. By fostering an environment that values creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, we can better prepare students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
To learn more about the issues in education and to explore Joanna Jacobs’ work, visit her website at joannejacobs.com.
Watch on YouTube – Livestream with Joanna Jacobs – 6.12.25
00:03 Discussion on banning phones in schools improves student focus.
- Joanne Jacobs shares insights on the national movement against phone usage in schools led by John Hattie.
- Schools report better attention and engagement from students after implementing phone bans.
03:10 Implementing a school-wide phone policy improves student engagement and reduces distractions.
- Teachers prefer a unified school policy to minimize disruptions caused by individual phone enforcement.
- Schools using phone pouches see decreased conflict and encourage in-person social interactions during class and lunch.
09:35 Addressing phone and laptop distractions in schools is essential.
- Removing phones reduces distractions, allowing better focus, although complete prevention is challenging.
- Laptops, while useful for teaching, risk further distraction; engaging students in academics is crucial.
12:56 Joanne Jacobs discusses childhood media impacts and her journey into journalism.
- Jacobs highlights the movement for limiting children’s screen time and reducing social media exposure.
- Her early interest in journalism stemmed from creating a newspaper in second grade, inspired by family ties to reporting.
19:38 Joanna discusses challenges in education for Mexican immigrant children.
- She highlights the shift in attitudes among Mexican immigrant parents regarding high school education and employment.
- Joanna emphasizes the importance of genuine educational metrics over superficial graduation statistics.
22:54 Parents started micro schools to enhance children’s education during the pandemic.
- Micro schools emerged as a response to ineffective remote learning, allowing parents to combine resources and form small groups.
- These schools often hire non-traditional teachers, such as retired educators, and utilize online curricula to keep costs low.
29:36 Education in North Carolina is shifting towards more school choice and competition.
- Charter schools provide opportunities but may not suit every child’s learning needs, emphasizing the importance of tailored educational approaches.
- District schools are encouraged to adapt by either improving their offerings or collaborating with families to meet diverse student needs.
32:48 Parents are increasingly questioning educational choices post-pandemic.
- The pandemic led to a loss of trust in schools, as many closed for extended periods.
- Current kindergarten curricula are criticized for being more advanced than before, with earlier emphasis on reading and academic skills.
38:52 Participation in sports enhances academic success and life skills.
- Kids involved in sports often perform better academically due to increased discipline and teamwork.
- Group activities teach essential social skills and goal-setting, though poorly designed projects may lack effectiveness.
42:09 The decline in college enrollment is impacting future opportunities for students.
- Many students are opting out of college due to perceived costs and value, with a noticeable gender gap in enrollment.
- Employers increasingly prioritize technical certifications over traditional degrees, altering the job landscape for graduates.
48:05 Consider the financial implications of pursuing arts degrees amidst job market changes.
- Pursuing degrees in art or theater can lead to significant debt with limited financial returns.
- The importance of skilled trades is rising, especially for those struggling academically, as manual jobs remain secure against AI advancements.
51:37 Child-rearing in 2025 emphasizes play over structured enrichment.
- Parents today often feel pressured to provide enriching activities for their children, but play remains essential.
- The speaker reflects on their upbringing in a larger family, where independent play and social skills were developed outdoors.