Episode #30
Inside Texas Education | Pam Little
What does it take to truly transform education? In this episode of The Ashley B. Cash Show , Ashley sits down with Pam Little , Texas State Board of Education Member for District 12, for an in-depth conversation about the future of K–12 education and the policies shaping classrooms across Texas. Together, they unpack the recent State Board of Education meetings and discuss the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), curriculum reform, and the importance of moving from simply teaching students to ensuring they are actually learning. They explore why explicit instruction, phonics, and the science of education matter, while addressing concerns about scripted curriculum, excessive screen time, and standardized testing. Ashley and Pam also dive into the growing importance of Career and Technical Education (CTE), entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and skills-based learning—giving students multiple pathways to success beyond the traditional four-year college route. They discuss how schools can better prepare students for high-demand careers while breaking cycles of generational poverty. Whether you're a parent, educator, policymaker, or simply passionate about improving education, this conversation offers an inside look at how education policy is made and what changes could have the greatest impact on the next generation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why TEKS shape every Texas classroom The debate over curriculum, pedagogy, and the science of learning How Career & Technical Education is creating new opportunities for students Why entrepreneurship and financial literacy belong in every school The impact of screen time and technology on student learning What parents should know about education policy and how they can get involved About The Ashley B. Cash Show: The Ashley B. Cash Show features conversations with education leaders, policy experts, parents, teachers and reform advocates who are working to transform K-12 education. Host Ashley B. Cash brings her perspective as both a parent and business owner to explore systemic education issues and practical solutions for creating better outcomes for students, families, and communities. About Ashley: As both a mother and business owner, Ashley brings a unique dual perspective to education reform advocacy, driven by her desire for better educational outcomes for future generations and informed by her firsthand experience with the skills gap facing employers today. Her passion for transforming K-12 education stems from witnessing the real-world consequences of educational failures and recognizing the critical need for a system that prepares students for diverse career pathways, not just college. Through this podcast, Ashley champions solutions including aptitude-based education tracks, expanded school choice, practical skills integration, and alternative career pathways that align with students' individual strengths and interests. Follow @AshleyBCashOfficial on Instagram & @Ashley Bowes Cash on Facebook. Visit www.AshleyBCashOfficial.com for more content and features.
