Circle Time Convos

In this episode, we welcome Tarrah DeClemente, Executive Director of Nutrition Support Services at Chicago Public Schools (CPS), to discuss how school nutrition directly impacts student success.

In this episode of Circle Time Convos, Principal Venus DeLoach of Carver Elementary School breaks down how families and schools can seamlessly navigate early childhood transitions. Principal DeLoach highlights the elevated expectations and rigor of modern kindergarten, explaining why early routines, self-regulation, and high attendance are essential for young learners. The conversation underlines the power of strong family-school partnerships, encouraging parents to embrace their role as active VIP collaborators in their child’s educational journey

No matter what the Chicago weather is doing outside, the learning never stops! In this episode, we take a walk through the beautiful Garfield Park Conservatory with Grace Urrutia, the Nature Education Manager. Grace shares how the Conservatory serves as a massive, sensory-rich classroom for young learners through free, hands-on drop-in programs.

Is your child starting pre-K or kindergarten soon? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sonji Barnes (Acting Director of Health Services) to break down how families can get free, hands-on help applying for Medicaid and SNAP, as well as access on-site school dental, vision, and physical exams. Tune in to learn how easy it is to set your child up for a healthy, successful school year with CPS's healthcare resources! 

When families are juggling chaotic schedules, navigating multiple languages, and trying to find the right balance for their children, what does true kindergarten readiness actually look like?In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Spraker, Vice President of Program Services at Concordia Place, a Chicago-based nonprofit serving diverse communities representing over 22 languages.Tune in to discover why consistent, open-ended play is the ultimate tool for rapid brain development and for the critical social-emotional, language, and executive functioning skills children need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

What does it really take to raise global citizens in a world of dual-language learners? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Larue Fitch, the passionate principal of C.E. Hughes Elementary School (Charles Evans Hughes), to discuss the vital role of early childhood education in a globalized society.

Ever noticed how a lack of rest can completely change a child's behavior? Child development and parenting expert Dr. Angela Searcy joins us on this episode of Circle Time Convos to unpack why "quiet time" is one of the most powerful and most misunderstood parts of early childhood development.

In this episode, we are joined by Marquinta Thomas, Vice President of Community Impact at Illinois Action for Children (IAFC), to demystify the process of applying for early childhood education in Chicago. Whether you are looking for a Pre-K program at Chicago Public Schools (CPS) or a Community-Based Organization, this conversation covers everything families need to know to navigate the system with confidence.

In this episode of Circle Time Convs, we sit down with Esmeralda Bueno, District Chief at Chicago Public Library (CPL), to explore how modern libraries have evolved into vibrant community hubs that offer far more than just books. Esmeralda highlights the essential resources available across CPL’s 81 locations, including STEM programs, dual-language literacy tools, and the strategic partnership with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to provide on-site Pre-K registration support. From free technology access and "Teacher in the Library" homework help to summer reading challenges and nutritious meal programs, discover how your local library acts as a vital partner in your child's early education journey.

Is Pre-K just "play," or is it the foundation for a lifetime of learning? In this episode, we sit down with Mrs. Eileen Gregor, a teacher from Carver Elementary School, to explore the intentionality, joy, and rigor found in the early childhood classroom.