Affton Unplugged

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast, hosted by Superintendent Dr. Travis Bracht, features an interview with leaders from the Affton Parents Club (APC). This nonprofit organization acts as a district-wide parent-teacher organization for all five local schools, though it emphasizes that alumni, grandparents, and community members without children are also encouraged to join.

The discussion highlights annual traditions such as the Back to School Bash and the Tri-Affton-Lon that supports student scholarships. Leaders explain that involvement is flexible, ranging from attending meetings to assisting with specific tasks like gardening or event concessions.

By fostering partnerships with the local chamber of commerce and emergency services, the APC aims to build a strong, inclusive network that supports both staff and students. The episode concludes by inviting listeners to share fresh ideas and help the organization continue to evolve.

In this podcast episode of Affton Unplugged, Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews various educators from across the district to celebrate the Class of 2026 as they reach graduation. Teachers and administrators share nostalgic memories, tracing the students' journey from their first days in early childhood education through their final years in high school.

The speakers highlight significant milestones, such as building renovations, navigating the pandemic, and participating in community traditions like the grad walk. Throughout the discussion, staff members express immense pride in the students' academic and athletic achievements while offering heartfelt advice for the future.

Ultimately, the memories of these staff members serve as a tribute to the resilience and growth of a special group of students that grew up alongside many of their mentors.

In this podcast episode of Affton Unplugged, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Suggs turns the table on the 2026 Missouri Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Travis Bracht. Dr. Suggs takes the mic to lead this conversation with Dr. Bracht to provide listeners with a personal look at his life and leadership philosophy. 

Dr. Bracht reflects on his upbringing in a family of educators and small business owners, noting how his parents and grandfather inspired his career path. He discusses how playing high school football as a quarterback helped him develop a vocal and decisive leadership style despite his naturally quiet personality.

The conversation also explores his calm demeanor, his strategy for managing stressful situations, and his deep affection for rescuing Weimaraner dogs. Ultimately, Dr. Bracht emphasizes that his primary goal as a leader is to serve the specific needs of the district.

This Affton Unplugged podcast episode, hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, explores the Seal of Biliteracy and the profound impact of language education within the Affton School District.

Featuring Spanish teacher Matthew O'Brien alongside current and former students, the discussion highlights how this state-recognized credential validates fluency in multiple languages and appears on academic transcripts. Participants explain that learning a second language provides practical career advantages and fosters empathy by allowing them to connect with diverse cultures on a global scale.

The conversation also illustrates how the curriculum uses music, cinema, and literature to transition students from basic vocabulary to complex discussions regarding international history. The episode emphasizes that achieving biliteracy is a journey of personal growth that transforms students into more engaged, compassionate global citizens.

In this podcast episode of Affton Unplugged, Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews the director and several students involved with the St. Louis Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (STL CAPS). The program offers high school juniors and seniors hands-on professional experiences through strands like healthcare and business, moving education beyond the traditional classroom. 

Director Dr. Tim Luecke explains how the initiative utilizes partnerships with local businesses to provide internships, site visits, and professional skill development. Participating students share personal stories regarding surgical shadowing, marketing campaigns, and networking with peers from various school districts.

Collectively, the episode guests highlight how the program bridges the gap between high school and career, allowing students to build confidence and refine their future goals. St. Louis CAPS is an example of how business, community and public education can partner to produce personalized learning experiences that educate the workforce of tomorrow, especially in high skill, high demand jobs.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews several high school seniors involved in the St. Louis Centers for Advanced Professional Studies Medicine and Health Care program. The students represent various local high schools that include Affton, Bayless, Lindbergh, Kirkwood, Mehlville and Oakville. 

The student associates discuss their capstone passion projects, which required them to complete internships, community service, and educational presentations. The participants share their research on diverse healthcare topics such as traumatic brain injuries, pediatric oncology, and orthopedic surgery. Throughout the interviews, students explain how hands-on experiences at SSM St. Clare Hospital in Fenton and other local clinics have shaped their professional goals.

The episode concludes with the students detailing their future academic plans and aspirations to enter fields like physical therapy, fertility medicine, and humanitarian aid. Overall, the student testimonials highlight the significant impact of experiential learning on preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews two members of the Affton High School golf team and their veteran coach. The discussion highlights a significant surge in participation, growing from just a few participants to a full fifteen-player roster capable of competing for team titles.

Seniors Ben Davis and Jacob Hydar share personal milestones, including impressive hole-in-one stories and the inspiration they draw from their families. Coach Jay Laue explains the technical structure of high school matches and the mental stamina required to navigate professional-grade courses and unpredictable weather.

The episode illustrates how the program fosters lifelong athletic skills and personal growth through both individual and collective achievements. The Affton High School golf season is in full swing and this team is on par for success!

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews several long-serving staff members preparing for their 2026 retirement. These dedicated educators that include Ray Crites, Bridget Nyberg, Laura Bangert and Dr. Deann Myers share reflections on their decades of service.

The conversations highlighting the district’s tight-knit community and special memories like taking students to the theater or winning Teacher of the Year. They also recount leadership journeys that included creative ways the district supported students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each retiree outlines diverse future plans, ranging from substitute teaching and consulting to international travel and gardening. The episode celebrates the professional legacies and personal connections formed within the Affton School District.