Advertise on podcast: Currey Ingram Conversations

What happens when curiosity meets purpose? In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher take a deeper dive with Currey Ingram Academy's lead LibTech Integrationist, Melissa Powers, about the 2026-27 all-school theme of "Igniting IDEAs" and how that connects to the meaningful work happening inside the Currey Family IDEA Center. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of project-based learning in a space that moves beyond the traditional classroom. Currey Ingram's IDEA Center provides the "kindling" for not just igniting ideas but for transformational learning.

From zero organized gaming experience to a state championship and a college scholarship! Co-hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher trace the history of our school's Esports program alongside Athletic Director Reid McFadden and graduating senior Finn Kelly. Finn opens up about his rapid interest in Esports, getting recruited by Baylor University, and capping off his senior year with a spectacular state title and collegiate scholarship. Don't miss this inspiring story of talent, teamwork, and the power of Esports!

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Dr. Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher step aside to give the floor to the people who know Currey Ingram Academy best: the students. Two seniors share their personal journey of why they chose our school, how their teacher mentorship has been valuable, and what has helped them flourish as students. Their stories are a powerful testament to the way Currey Ingram Academy supports students with learning differences, specifically helping them excel academically, pursue passions, and prepare for their next chapter. Listen to how they are thriving and ready to fly beyond the walls of the Currey Ingram classroom!

Are screens helping or hurting our kids, especially those with learning differences? In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher invite Ginann Franklin and Melissa Powers to explore the complex relationship between screen time, neurodivergence, and the developing brain. Grounded in current research, they unpack how digital media impacts attention, emotional regulation, and learning.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, hosts Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with Tyler F. LeMarinel, partner at Allard Ward Architects, to explore the vision behind the school's Master Plan and how thoughtful design shapes the student experience. From creating flexible, student-centered spaces to supporting regulation, well-being, and long-term growth, they highlight the powerful connection between environment and learning.

In this Currey Ingram Conversation, Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher dive into structured literacy, with a focus on the fundamentals and why it's essential for learning to read. Joined by Dr. Regan Anderson, Currey Ingram Academy's Director of Program Outreach, and Lower School teacher, Mary Jackson, the conversation blends research and classroom insight to explain how this evidence-based approach supports all learners, especially students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with two members of the Currey Ingram faculty to explore the power of continued education and the impact of ongoing professional growth. Together, they discuss why investing in lifelong learning is essential for educators, especially those serving students with learning differences, and how high-quality professional development directly enhances classroom practice, student outcomes, and school culture. From conference takeaways to personal growth journeys, this conversation highlights the commitment, curiosity, and expertise that drive great teaching at Currey Ingram Academy.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with a Currey Ingram Academy board member, Curt Thorne, to explore what it means to "Rise & Thrive" from a governance perspective. The conversation unpacks how the strategic plan serves as a compass for decision-making, why staying in your lane is essential for effective board leadership, and how trust, culture, and shared purpose help the entire community move forward, ensuring Currey Ingram not only rises but thrives.

In this special episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher celebrate 20 years of the Rock Band program at Currey Ingram Academy — a signature experience that blends musical growth with personal transformation. Sean Kelly, who founded the program, sits down with two current student musicians and a proud alum to reflect on the impact of Rock Band over the years. From the early days of rehearsal and live performance, this conversation highlights how the program has shaped confidence, connection, and creativity. Rooted in the heart of Music City, Currey Ingram's approach to music is more than just unique — it's a true Nashville experience.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, Lower School Division Head Dr. Danielle Barton and Lower School Assistant Division Head Catherine Thomson explore how skill deficits influence students' unexpected behaviors. They discuss Currey Ingram Academy's diagnostic approach to addressing behavior by seeking underlying causes, implementing skill-building approaches, and fostering overall growth, which empowers students with learning differences to thrive.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher welcome Dr. Melinda Hirschmann, Assistant Director for Educational Services and School Outreach at the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia. Dr. Hirschmann brings a wealth of experience in literacy instruction and intervention, working with educators and students across K-12 to strengthen their approach to dyslexia. She shares key insights on recognizing early signs of dyslexia in students, drawing from her years as a reading interventionist. Tune in as we dive deep into the red flags that can help parents and educators identify students at risk for dyslexia, ensuring early support and intervention for better outcomes.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher are joined by an alumni parent who shares her son's journey with slow processing. Reflecting on his growth, she emphasizes that Curre Ingram "understood who he was, what he brought, what his struggles were, and what his gifts were." This conversation highlights the transformative impact of finding the right environment, showing how the right place can help students thrive beyond their specific learning differences.

In this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations, co-hosts Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher sit down with Cindy Cowhey, a dedicated Currey Ingram parent, to discuss the Academy's new strategic plan. They explore its philosophy, the key themes of Mission, People, and Future, and the goals driving the school forward. From financial sustainability and national outreach to fostering inclusivity and preparing for transformative growth, learn how Currey Ingram is shaping its path for the next six years.

Join co-hosts, Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher, along with special guest Molly Rollins, President of the Board of Trust, as they dive deep into the heart of Currey Ingram Academy's mission and newly unveiled strategic plan in this episode of Currey Ingram Conversations. Together, they explore how the school's unwavering commitment to empowering students with learning differences through individualized education positions Currey Ingram as a global leader. The conversation sheds light on the school's forward-thinking vision, emphasizing sustainable initiatives, expanding accessibility, and maintaining a steadfast focus on each student's success. Tune in to hear how this fresh perspective is shaping the future of Currey Ingram Academy!

Currey Ingram Conversations' co-hosts, Dr. Jeff Mitchell and Courtney Gallaher, dive deep into the heart of the theme for the 2024-25 school year: Imagine & Achieve. They are joined by Ginnan Franklin, Currey Ingram's Director of Libraries and Educational Technology, who brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the conversation. Together, they share how a current student inspired the theme, how Currey Ingram supports all that can be imagined and achieved for students with learning differences, and what the school is looking to imagine and achieve in the years to come. Whether you're a parent, educator, or curious listener, this episode will ignite your imagination and inspire you to see what's possible when students are empowered to achieve beyond expectations.