"Opportunity and chances. That's what we're here for. We're here to remove obstacles; we're here to provide opportunities."

Dr. Ken DeFrank is more than an educator, he's an advocate for students.

Dr. DeFrank, Principal of Success Academy, joins The GIPS Cast to share his philosophy of education and why alternative learning programs are vital to any public school system.  He shares his experiences of more than 20 years in public education dedicated to building systems and leanring environments for students in need.  He also unpacks his passion for personalized learning, the rise of student anxiety, the power of compassion, and playing the long game for building relationships with every student.

Because it's all about planting seeds and fostering healthy learning environments. 

* TRIGGER WARNING *
The conversation you’ll hear on this episode touches briefly on a few topics that may be triggering for some listeners.  This episode contains conversation on things such as anxiety, suicide ideation, psychosis, emotional trauma, and seeking support for those struggles.

Please know it is our intention to discuss these topics with sensitivity and empathy.  We at GIPS want to do our part to normalize empathetic conversations around mental health and wellness.

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GUEST: 
Dr. Ken DeFrank, Success Academy Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

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https://www.gips.org/