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Learning Curve

Independence Institute

Learning Curve breaks down education policy so parents and citizens can understand what’s really happening in their schools. Hosted by Colorado parent and activist Erin Brantley and education policy expert Ross Izard, the show takes listeners inside the world of school choice, funding, legislation, school boards, and the policies shaping K–12 education. Each episode translates complex education policy into plain language, helping parents understand where decisions come from—and how they can get involved before those decisions impact their kids. If you care about schools, education policy, and the future of Colorado classrooms, Learning Curve gives you the insight you need to stay informed and engaged.

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S1 · E32
Monday · 15 min· Video
Are Taxpayers Getting What They Paid For?
Colorado school districts are asking voters for millions of dollars in additional funding. But are taxpayers getting the results they were promised? In this episode of Learning Curve, host Erin Brantley examines school funding requests across Colorado and raises important questions about accountability, transparency, and whether increased education spending is translating into measurable improvements for students. With Jefferson County, Denver, Douglas County, and Littleton seeking additional taxpayer funding, Erin explores what voters should consider before casting their ballots. In this episode: Why Colorado school districts are requesting millions in additional funding. Whether previous tax increases delivered the improvements voters were promised. How declining student enrollment is creating long-term financial challenges for school districts. Why academic performance and measurable outcomes should be part of the school funding conversation. What taxpayers can do to hold school districts and elected school boards accountable. Colorado schools face real challenges, including teacher compensation, facility maintenance, and rising operating costs. But should approving additional funding also mean demanding measurable results? Erin discusses why voters should look beyond the dollar amounts and ask whether their school districts have demonstrated responsible spending, delivered on previous commitments, and established clear plans for the future. The big question: Are taxpayers getting what they paid for? Watch the full episode of Learning Curve for a closer look at Colorado's school funding debate. Join the conversation: Do you believe Colorado school districts are doing enough to demonstrate results before requesting additional taxpayer funding? Let us know in the comments! Subscribe to Learning Curve for more conversations about Colorado education, school choice, education policy, and accountability. #LearningCurve #ColoradoEducation #SchoolFunding #TaxpayerAccountability #ColoradoSchools #EducationPolicy #SchoolBoard #JeffcoSchools #PublicEducation
S1 · E31
October 12 · 24 min· Video
Your Child Is Struggling… But Doesn't Qualify for Help
What happens when a child struggles with reading but doesn't qualify for additional support? In this clip from Learning Curve, hosts Erin Brantley and Ross Izard speak with Anna Libetta and Lindsay Dracos of CO Kid about how children with dyslexia can sometimes slip through the cracks of Colorado's education system. Some students develop strong vocabulary and other compensating skills that allow them to score above the threshold for a READ plan, even when they exhibit characteristics of dyslexia. This can leave parents without a clear understanding of why their child is struggling. The conversation explores how Colorado's new dyslexia screening requirements under SB25-200 aim to identify these students earlier and provide families with valuable information about their children's reading development. Because a child shouldn't have to fall further behind before their struggles are recognized. Learn more about CO Kid and its work to improve literacy outcomes in Colorado at https://cokid.org.
S1 · E30
October 5 · 23 min· Video
The Delay Was Traumatic for My Daughter
What happens when parents realize the education system isn’t giving their children with dyslexia the support they need? In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard talk with Lindsay and Anna from CO Kid about how their personal experiences as parents led them into education advocacy, and eventually to the Colorado State Capitol. Lindsay shares how her daughter’s dyslexia diagnosis exposed serious gaps in early identification and support. After connecting with other parents facing many of the same challenges, they began organizing, building relationships, approaching lawmakers, and advocating for changes to Colorado’s literacy policies. The work would ultimately take years. Lindsay describes the emotional impact delayed identification had on her oldest daughter and why that experience kept her fighting long after her own children would personally benefit from the reforms. Anna also shares her experience raising children who were identified at very different ages and the striking difference early identification can make. As a foster parent, she also discusses her concern for children who may not have a consistent advocate fighting to make sure they receive the help they need. Erin and Ross explore what Lindsay and Anna learned along the way, from navigating the legislative process and building coalitions to dealing with setbacks, opposition, and the reality that meaningful policy change rarely happens overnight. It’s a powerful conversation about dyslexia, literacy, parent advocacy, and what can happen when a small group of determined parents decides that the system needs to change.
S1 · E29
September 28 · 21 min· Video
Would You Hand Them $273 Every Year?
Would you hand over another $273 every year? Jeffco Public Schools is asking voters to approve two property tax measures—5A and 5B—that would generate a combined $133 million in new annual revenue. For a $600,000 home, the estimated cost comes to about $273 per year. Erin Brantley and Ross Izard break down what Jeffco says the additional money is needed for, including teacher compensation, career and technical education, technology, maintenance, and aging school facilities. They also examine the questions surrounding the measures: declining enrollment, growing administrative costs, concerns over past oversight, and the controversial sale of the former Emory Elementary property. With millions of dollars and a recurring tax increase on the line, what should Jefferson County voters know before they cast their ballots?
S1 · E28
September 21 · 18 min· Video
These Homeschool Programs Are GONE
Colorado’s homeschool enrichment landscape is changing fast—and some programs are already gone. Since our last update, several homeschool enrichment programs have shut down, leaving families searching for alternatives as the school year gets underway. Now, the Colorado State Board of Education is considering new rules that could reshape how these programs operate going forward. Erin Brantley and Ross Izard break down the two options on the table, including new restrictions on how homeschool enrichment programs can work with outside organizations. They also explore what should actually count as “enrichment,” how much control school districts should have, and whether the state can provide stronger oversight without eliminating innovative opportunities for students. Plus, the rulemaking process is still underway. Erin and Ross explain what happens next—and how parents can make their voices heard before the rules are finalized.
S1 · E27
September 7 · 20 min· Video
Are Rural Homeschoolers Getting Left Behind?
Colorado's homeschool enrichment programs are facing another round of uncertainty as the state begins developing new rules governing how these programs can operate. In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard examine two of the biggest issues emerging from the rulemaking process: general availability and private benefit. One key question is whether homeschool enrichment programs should be allowed to offer services that aren't already available through the public school district where they operate. If the state takes a narrow approach, students in larger districts with extensive programming could have significantly more opportunities than homeschool students in smaller or rural districts. Erin and Ross also discuss Colorado's developing interpretation of "private benefit" and what it could mean for enrichment programs that contract with outside organizations for educational services. Schools routinely use outside vendors for everything from special education and therapy to athletics and extracurricular activities, raising questions about whether part-time homeschool programs could be treated differently. They also explain the upcoming rulemaking process, when final rules could arrive, and how Colorado parents can make their voices heard.
S1 · E26
August 31 · 16 min· Video
Colorado Gave Homeschool Programs DAYS to Survive
Colorado’s homeschool enrichment programs are facing a sudden deadline that could leave thousands of students and families in limbo. After a major organization responsible for authorizing many of these programs was forced to dissolve, dozens of homeschool enrichment programs were thrown into uncertainty. Programs that spent hundreds of hours seeking approval were told their applications would no longer be reviewed, leaving many scrambling to find a new authorizer before a September 5 deadline. Normally, finding a new school or district willing to authorize a program can take months. Now, some programs are being asked to accomplish it in a matter of days, all while the school year is already getting underway. In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard break down how Colorado reached this point, why the deadline is creating so much uncertainty, and what could happen to the homeschool students and families caught in the middle. With tens of thousands of students potentially affected, the bigger question is: how many of these programs will be able to survive?
S1 · E25
August 24 · 10 min· Video
When Does “Free” School Lunch Get Too Expensive?
Colorado has committed to providing free school meals to students regardless of household income, but what happens when the cost keeps growing? Erin Brantley and Ross Izard examine Colorado’s Healthy School Meals for All program, the additional funding voters have approved, and the difficult question of how much taxpayers are ultimately willing to spend. They also look beyond the price tag. Are students actually eating the meals? Is the food meeting parents’ expectations? And what should families be asking their schools about where the food comes from and how their nutrition programs operate? It’s a conversation about good intentions, rising costs, accountability, and whether Colorado’s universal school meal program can remain sustainable.
S1 · E24
August 17 · 14 min· Video
Colorado Is #1 in Education, But What Does That Really Mean?
Colorado has been ranked #1 in education by U.S. News & World Report, jumping from third place in 2025 to the top spot in 2026. But what exactly does a #1 education ranking measure? In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard look beyond the headline and break down the factors behind Colorado's ranking, including preschool enrollment, college attainment and completion, graduation outcomes, and K–12 academic performance. Erin and Ross also discuss Colorado's reading and math proficiency numbers, the relationship between education spending and student outcomes, and the difficulty of reducing something as complex as educational success to a single statewide ranking. What should matter most when evaluating Colorado schools: rankings, test scores, funding, educational access, parent satisfaction, or something else entirely? Hosts: Erin Brantley and Ross Izard
S1 · E23
August 10 · 18 min· Video
The Education Rules You Never Voted For
Most people have heard of the Colorado Department of Education, but far fewer understand the State Board of Education that oversees it. In this episode of Learning Curve, Ross Izzard explains how the Colorado State Board of Education is structured, why its members are elected, and the significant authority the board exercises over education policy throughout the state. From hiring the Commissioner of Education and adopting regulations that carry the force of law to overseeing charter school appeals, accountability systems, and statewide education governance, this episode offers an accessible overview of a board whose decisions affect millions of Coloradans—even if most people rarely hear about it. If you've ever wondered who really helps shape education policy in Colorado, this episode is a great place to start.
S1 · E22
August 3 · 10 min· Video
1 IN 4 KIDS ARE MISSING SCHOOL
Nearly one in four Colorado students is chronically absent from school, and the effects extend far beyond missed classroom time. In this episode, Erin Brantley examines Colorado's chronic absenteeism rates, explains how chronic absenteeism differs from truancy, and discusses why attendance remains a major challenge years after the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation explores the academic consequences of chronic absenteeism, the factors driving higher absence rates, Colorado's statewide attendance improvement efforts, and practical ways families and schools can work together to keep students engaged in learning. If attendance is one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic success, what will it take for Colorado to return to pre-pandemic levels?
S1 · E21
July 27 · 16 min· Video
Colorado's Next Governor Could Change Education?
Colorado's gubernatorial race could have significant implications for the future of education in the state. In this episode of Learning Curve, Ross Izard and Erin Brantley discuss what Phil Weiser's primary victory may signal for Colorado's education system. They explore the governor's role in shaping education policy, school finance, Proposition NN, TABOR, school choice, and the federal tax-credit scholarship program, while examining the challenges that could define the next administration. The conversation also highlights why civic engagement extends beyond Election Day and how parents can continue influencing education policy at the local and state levels. If you're looking to better understand where Colorado education may be headed, this episode provides an accessible overview of the major issues likely to dominate the conversation in the years ahead.
S1 · E20
July 20 · 17 min· Video
Colorado's public schools are projected to lose approximately 16,000 students, but what does that mean for school funding?
In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard discuss Colorado's annual School Finance Act, how the state's education funding formula works, and why declining enrollment creates difficult budgeting decisions for school districts. They also explain why schools may continue receiving funding as enrollment changes, how the current funding formula is evolving, and what parents and taxpayers should know moving forward. This episode offers a practical overview of one of Colorado's most significant education policy issues, helping listeners better understand how student enrollment, state funding, and legislative decisions intersect.
S1 · E19
July 13 · 12 min· Video
Who Really Runs Colorado's Schools?
Many parents assume education decisions come from one place, but the reality is far more layered. In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley explains how authority is divided among the federal government, the Colorado Legislature, the State Board of Education, the Colorado Department of Education, local school districts, and individual schools. Learn who sets academic standards, who controls funding, who adopts curriculum, and where parents can make the biggest difference when concerns arise. Whether you're trying to understand a new policy, a curriculum change, or a decision affecting your local school, this episode provides a practical guide to navigating Colorado's education system and knowing where accountability belongs. Topics Covered: Federal vs. state responsibilities The Colorado Legislature's role in education State Board of Education powers Colorado Department of Education responsibilities Local school board authority School-level decision making How parents can become more effective advocates If you enjoy Learning Curve, be sure to follow the show so you never miss future conversations about education policy and what it means for Colorado families.
S1 · E18
July 6 · 16 min· Video
Who's Getting Million-Dollar Contracts?
As school choice programs continue expanding across the United States, a new industry has emerged to help administer education savings accounts (ESAs), scholarship programs, and other forms of educational choice. But who manages these programs, who competes for the contracts, and what happens when hundreds of millions of dollars are at stake? In this episode of Learning Curve, Ross Izzard and Erin Brantley examine the growing business of school choice administration. They discuss why states increasingly rely on private organizations to manage complex education programs, how competitive government contracts have become, and why lobbying and political influence are beginning to play a much larger role in the school choice movement. Ross and Erin also explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of this emerging industry. While private organizations can provide expertise and innovation that governments often lack, the rapid growth of these programs raises important questions about transparency, accountability, competition, and ensuring families receive the services they were promised. Whether you're interested in education policy, school choice, government contracting, or the future of K–12 education, this episode offers a thoughtful look at an issue that will likely shape education reform for years to come.
S1 · E17
June 29 · 16 min· Video
Could Jeffco Schools Lose Millions in Federal Funding?
What happens when federal Title IX requirements collide with Colorado law? In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izzard unpack one of the most significant education policy disputes currently unfolding in Colorado. Using Jefferson County Public Schools (Jeffco) as a case study, they explain how Title IX has evolved since its passage in 1972, why it has become the center of intense legal and political debate, and what happens when state and federal governments interpret the law differently. Erin and Ross explore how Title IX is enforced, why federal funding has become a key point of leverage, and whether a school district could realistically lose millions of dollars for refusing to comply with the federal government's current interpretation. They also discuss the constitutional questions surrounding federal authority, state law, and the practical challenges school districts face when caught between competing legal obligations. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, or simply interested in education policy, this episode provides a clear, balanced overview of a rapidly developing issue that could have lasting implications for schools in Colorado and across the country. Topics Covered: The history and purpose of Title IX How Title IX has changed over time Why Jeffco is under federal investigation Colorado law versus federal Title IX requirements How Title IX enforcement works Could a school district actually lose federal funding? What happens next in the legal process? If you enjoy Learning Curve, be sure to follow the podcast and share this episode with someone interested in education, public policy, and the legal issues shaping our schools today.
S1 · E16
June 22 · 12 min· Video
Even The Government Is Confused
The Colorado legislative session may be over, but the work of education policy is far from finished. In this episode of Learning Curve, Ross Izzard and Erin Brantley explain what happens during the legislative interim, the often, overlooked period between sessions when state agencies, school districts, policymakers, and advocates work to interpret and implement new laws. From changes to school finance and homeschool enrichment programs to the rulemaking process that follows major legislation, the conversation explores why some of the most important policy decisions happen after lawmakers leave the Capitol. The discussion also examines the challenges facing the Colorado Department of Education as it works through a wave of legislative changes, the timeline for rulemaking, and how parents can stay informed about decisions that may affect their children and schools. Just because the legislature adjourned doesn't mean the policy debates have ended. In many ways, they're only beginning. Topics Discussed: What happens after the legislative session ends Education policy during the interim School finance changes and implementation Homeschool enrichment program updates Rulemaking and regulatory guidance How parents can follow education policy developments What to expect before the next legislative session Learning Curve explores the policies, decisions, and debates shaping education in Colorado and beyond.
S1 · E15
June 15 · 20 min· Video
If Kids Can't Read By Third Grade
Mississippi's education system was once ranked near the bottom in the nation. Today, it has become one of the most discussed literacy success stories in America. In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izzard examine Mississippi's remarkable improvement in reading scores and ask what Colorado can learn from it. The discussion compares Mississippi's Literacy-Based Promotion Act with Colorado's READ Act, explores the controversial issue of third-grade retention, and looks at the challenges of improving literacy outcomes through policy alone. The conversation also highlights the importance of parental involvement, summer learning loss, local control in education, and the difficult balance between accountability, funding, and student achievement. If reading proficiency is one of the strongest predictors of future academic success, what should schools, parents, and policymakers be doing differently? Join us for a thoughtful discussion on literacy, education reform, and the future of student success.
S1 · E14
June 8 · 12 min· Video
Chaos At The End Of Session
Colorado's legislative session may be over, but the debate surrounding homeschool enrichment programs is just getting started. In this episode of Learning Curve, Ross Izzard and Erin Brantley unpack the final days of Colorado's 2026 legislative session and the last-minute amendments that dramatically altered the future of part-time funding and homeschool enrichment programs across the state. As lawmakers rushed to finish their work before the constitutional deadline, major policy changes were adopted with little time for families, educators, and program leaders to fully understand their impact. The result is a landscape filled with uncertainty, new restrictions, unanswered questions, and an extensive rulemaking process that is only beginning. Ross explains how the legislature's changes could affect homeschool enrichment programs, charter schools, school districts, and BOCES programs moving forward. The conversation explores new geographic restrictions, funding concerns, grandfathering provisions for existing programs, and why many families may still be waiting for answers despite the session having officially ended. The hosts also discuss the role of the Colorado Department of Education, the upcoming rulemaking process, and why this issue is likely to remain a major education policy battle for years to come. Whether you're a homeschool parent, educator, school leader, policymaker, or simply interested in the future of education in Colorado, this episode provides important context for understanding one of the most significant education debates of the year. Learning Curve is Colorado's education podcast, bringing thoughtful conversations and analysis on school choice, education policy, charter schools, homeschooling, and the issues shaping opportunities for students and families across the state.
S1 · E13
June 1 · 7 min· Video
Parents Are Done Being Ignored
What happens when a handful of concerned parents decide they’ve had enough? In this episode of Learning Curve, we examine the growing controversy surrounding Jefferson County Public Schools and the grassroots movement that emerged in response. As questions about leadership, accountability, student safety, and district governance continue to make headlines, parents have begun organizing, speaking out, and demanding answers. Hosts Erin Brantley and Ross discuss how parent coalitions form, why local advocacy matters, and how community concerns can eventually influence policy discussions far beyond the school board room. They also explore the resignation of Superintendent Tracy Dorland and what it could mean for the future of Jeffco schools. This conversation isn't just about one school district, it's about the power of citizen engagement and what can happen when ordinary people refuse to stay silent. Learning Curve is dedicated to helping parents, educators, and community members better understand education policy and the issues shaping schools across Colorado. Follow, subscribe, and share to stay informed on the education conversations that matter most. Connect with Learning Curve: Website: learningcurveco.org Email: info@learningcurveco.org #LearningCurve #JeffcoSchools #ColoradoEducation #ParentAdvocacy #EducationPolicy #SchoolBoard #JeffersonCounty #ColoradoSchools #PublicEducation #CommunityLeadership #ColoradoParents #EducationNews #GrassrootsMovement #SchoolGovernance #ColoradoPolitics

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