TEPSA Talk
Why Schools Need Solutions, Not More To-Do Lists with Kim Bearden
Most schools are trying to improve family engagement with more meetings, reminders, and obligations—but Kim Bearden says that's backwards. Real breakthroughs happen when families feel welcomed, known, and connected before difficult conversations ever begin. In this episode of the Todd Nesloney sits down with Kim Bearden, co-founder of the Ron Clark Academy, to discuss practical ways schools can build trust and create stronger family partnerships. Kim shares ideas for: • Making open house more engaging with mini lessons • Using bingo nights, trivia nights, and game nights to build community • Creating meaningful events for mothers, grandmothers, and caregivers • Involving fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other men in school life • Using family photo days and name buttons to help parents connect • Turning parent relationships into genuine school partnerships Todd also explains how he adapted these ideas for his own school community. The central message is simple: when schools stop seeing families as "us versus them" and start creating joyful, welcoming spaces for connection, students benefit. Kim Bearden is the co-founder of the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, an educator training facility and middle school known for engaging classrooms and innovative approaches to school culture. Learn more about Kim Bearden and the Ron Clark Academy: https://ronclarkacademy.com/ #Education #FamilyEngagement #SchoolLeadership #EducationalLeadership #TEPSATalk
