Learning Curve breaks down education policy so parents and citizens can understand what’s really happening in their schools. Hosted by Colorado parent and activist Erin Brantley and education policy expert Ross Izard, the show takes listeners inside the world of school choice, funding, legislation, school boards, and the policies shaping K–12 education. Each episode translates complex education policy into plain language, helping parents understand where decisions come from—and how they can get involved before those decisions impact their kids. If you care about schools, education policy, and the future of Colorado classrooms, Learning Curve gives you the insight you need to stay informed and engaged.
What happens when parents realize the education system isn’t giving their children with dyslexia the support they need?
In this episode of Learning Curve, Erin Brantley and Ross Izard talk with Lindsay and Anna from CO Kid about how their personal experiences as parents led them into education advocacy, and eventually to the Colorado State Capitol.
Lindsay shares how her daughter’s dyslexia diagnosis exposed serious gaps in early identification and support. After connecting with other parents facing many of the same challenges, they began organizing, building relationships, approaching lawmakers, and advocating for changes to Colorado’s literacy policies.
The work would ultimately take years. Lindsay describes the emotional impact delayed identification had on her oldest daughter and why that experience kept her fighting long after her own children would personally benefit from the reforms.
Anna also shares her experience raising children who were identified at very different ages and the striking difference early identification can make. As a foster parent, she also discusses her concern for children who may not have a consistent advocate fighting to make sure they receive the help they need.
Erin and Ross explore what Lindsay and Anna learned along the way, from navigating the legislative process and building coalitions to dealing with setbacks, opposition, and the reality that meaningful policy change rarely happens overnight.
It’s a powerful conversation about dyslexia, literacy, parent advocacy, and what can happen when a small group of determined parents decides that the system needs to change.
28 Sept 2026
Would You Hand Them $273 Every Year?
Would you hand over another $273 every year?
Jeffco Public Schools is asking voters to approve two property tax measures—5A and 5B—that would generate a combined $133 million in new annual revenue. For a $600,000 home, the estimated cost comes to about $273 per year.
Erin Brantley and Ross Izard break down what Jeffco says the additional money is needed for, including teacher compensation, career and technical education, technology, maintenance, and aging school facilities.
They also examine the questions surrounding the measures: declining enrollment, growing administrative costs, concerns over past oversight, and the controversial sale of the former Emory Elementary property.
With millions of dollars and a recurring tax increase on the line, what should Jefferson County voters know before they cast their ballots?
21 Sept 2026
These Homeschool Programs Are GONE
Colorado’s homeschool enrichment landscape is changing fast—and some programs are already gone.
Since our last update, several homeschool enrichment programs have shut down, leaving families searching for alternatives as the school year gets underway. Now, the Colorado State Board of Education is considering new rules that could reshape how these programs operate going forward.
Erin Brantley and Ross Izard break down the two options on the table, including new restrictions on how homeschool enrichment programs can work with outside organizations. They also explore what should actually count as “enrichment,” how much control school districts should have, and whether the state can provide stronger oversight without eliminating innovative opportunities for students.
Plus, the rulemaking process is still underway. Erin and Ross explain what happens next—and how parents can make their voices heard before the rules are finalized.
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