Why Ask the Educators Exists
Because Better Outcomes Begin with Better Conversations
Dear Learning Partners:
Too many conversations happen too late, or NOT at all.
Dear Learning Partners.
Too many conversations happen too late, or NOT at all.
As we reflect on why we created Ask the Educators, we often return to the conversation that led us to its name. We were sitting on the back porch, deep in one of our animated discussions about how to best support families and school, when we realized that many difficult situations stall because people aren’t sure who to turn to or which perspective to trust. The name Ask the Educators came to mind as it signaled thoughtful guidance from those who understand both the research and realities of schools. As parents and educators, we bring lived experience together with best practice, grounded in the belief that multiple perspectives lead to better conversations and better outcomes.
We believe listening to all sides and examining questions, concerns, and ideas through multiple perspectives is the strongest path to meaningful outcomes. Having served as teachers and administrators, and having navigated the system as parents, we are deeply committed to keeping the child at the center of every conversation. The purpose of Ask the Educators is to help students get what they need by looking at the situation through different lenses and thoughtfully weaving those perspectives together to create understanding that no single viewpoint can create along.
From the beginning, we believed Ask the Educators could respond honestly and authentically to the questions families and educators were asking, drawing on our more than 60 years of combined experience. At the heart of this work are transparent, respectful conversations that build strong relationships and support student outcomes by creating space for everyone to feel heard, understood, and willing to learn together.
This weekly blog is our way of showing up early, sharing best practices, examining current realities, and strengthening parent-educator partnerships because successful teaching and learning are built through collaboration, cooperation, and trust.
Over this past year, many of you have shared a desire to go deeper, to apply ideas, stay connected, and continue the conversation beyond the page. As Ask the Educators has grown, including the launch of our podcast and this Substack, we’ve reflected on how our weekly blog is often just the opening exchange in a much larger conversation.
Our purpose for launching Ask the Educators on Substack was to create a space that supports families and educators by offering deeper insights into important and meaningful topics. We’ve always been intentional about embedding practical strategies into our writing, not just ideas, so readers can apply what they’re learning. Creating thoughtful content, useful tools, and spaces for dialogue takes time, care, and intention. As we look ahead, we’re exploring ways to support deeper engagement for those who want more, while remaining firmly grounded in our commitment to accessibility and shared learning.
⭐As a small takeaway from today’s reflection, consider this: the next time a question or concern arises, pause to ask not only what the issue is, but whose perspective might be missing. Simply naming and inviting multiple viewpoints can shift a conversation from positions to understanding.
Thank you for being part of this community and for continuing the conversation with us. In our next post, we’ll explore both why these conversations matter, and how they can be intentionally structured to build understanding and trust.
Warmly, Tamara & Peggy
Tamaraljacobson.com | Peggybud.com | Navigatingspecialeducation.com | Ask The Educators Substack | Podcast: Apple Music and Spotify
Our Books: Conversations Lead to Consensus, Navigating Special Education, Rethinking Perception, A Different Kind of Wonderful, Sofia Making Her Mark