In this discussion, Russell Shaw, head of Georgetown Day School and expert in lighthouse parenting, dives into guiding children's growth while granting them independence. He sheds light on the importance of fostering student voices and highlights the transformative role of technology in education. They also tackle challenges in middle school parenting and the essential skills needed for success beyond prestigious colleges. Shaw advocates for experiential education to cultivate resilience and teamwork, making a compelling case for preparing kids for real-world challenges.

Laura Meckler, a national education writer for the Washington Post, and Russell Shaw, head of Georgetown Day School and author on phone bans in education, dive into the impact of smartphones on student interactions. They discuss how phone bans are becoming a trend to combat rising anxiety and promote genuine connections in schools. The conversation also highlights the mixed responses to these policies and the delicate balance of managing technology use amidst ongoing mental health concerns.

Laura Meckler, a national education writer for the Washington Post, joins Russell Shaw, head of Georgetown Day School and author of an insightful Atlantic piece on banning phones. They tackle the mental health struggles students face since the pandemic and explore whether removing cell phones from classrooms can mitigate these issues. The discussion reveals how phone bans may enhance face-to-face interactions and boost student well-being, despite mixed reactions from both educators and students.