In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with Jenna Dreydoppel, Choir and Theater Tech teacher at North Pole High School, and Gwendolyn Brazier, Drama Advisor and Choir Director at West Valley and Lathrop High Schools, to explore how music and theater programs collaborate to create meaningful arts experiences for students.

The conversation highlights the value of arts education, the creative and collaborative skills that students develop, and the ways in which theater and music departments work together to bring productions to life.

Listeners will also hear about what happens behind the scenes of school productions, how students take on leadership roles both onstage and backstage, and upcoming performances.

Learn more about upcoming performances at:

Lathrop High Music Department: https://www.facebook.com/LHSmusicdepartment

North Pole Music Department: https://www.facebook.com/nphsmusic

West Valley High Music Department: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087159667738

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with Annika Merkel and Anna Westfall, two West Valley High students and co-presidents of the student-led Climate Defense League, to explore how young people are driving climate action in their community. The conversation highlights the club’s mission to raise awareness of global and local environmental issues, empower students to take meaningful action, and develop leadership skills while making a tangible impact.Listeners will learn about the club’s ongoing projects, community partnerships, and the ways students are building connections and friendships through purpose-driven action.

Recorded inside the North Pole High auto shop, this episode features Superintendent Dr. Meinert in conversation with Andrea Wade, Career & Technical Education (CTE) Director; Travis Cortez, North Pole High (NPH) Automotive Technology Instructor; and Jeremy Plowman, a sophomore at North Pole High.

Together, they explore the wide range of CTE opportunities available to students across the district.The episode takes a closer look at North Pole High School’s newly earned ASE automotive certification including what it means for students, how it elevates the program, and why industry-recognized credentials matter.

Hear about a student’s perspective on hands on learning, the value of earning certifications while still in high school, and how these experiences influence future plans.Learn how the district partners with local businesses, colleges, and community organizations to expand access to CTE, create meaningful hands-on learning experiences, and prepare students for success both during and after graduation.

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert talks with school district and Borough staff about the capital improvement projects shaping the future of Fairbanks schools. Together, they discuss how these projects are prioritized, funded, and managed through collaboration between the district and the Fairbanks North Star Borough.Thank you to our guests:• David Bredlie, Director of Public Works, Fairbanks North Star Borough • Jahanara Carreon, Executive Director, Facilities Management Department, FNSBSD• Clay Anderson, Construction & Projects Manager, FNSBSDListeners will hear about major facility upgrades across the district—projects designed to improve safety, efficiency, and learning environments for students and staff. The conversation also explores how the district keeps the community informed, balances long-term planning with immediate needs, and addresses some of Alaska’s unique construction challenges.This episode offers an inside look at how thoughtful planning and local partnership ensure that every investment in our schools is an investment in our community’s future.Fairbanks Public Works Projects: https://fnsb.gov/cip

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert connects with 21st CCLC Afterschool Programs (ASP) staff Lindsy Weaver, Director, and Jennifer Wienke, Program Development Coordinator, to explore how this program enriches after school learning throughout the district. Learn about the unique hands-on experiences students are receiving—from STEM and arts to cultural learning and academic support.The conversation highlights the power of after school programs to increase student engagement, build confidence, and strengthen connections between school, families, and the wider community. The team also share about the recognitions they have earned at local and state levels.Thanks to all the dedicated staff and volunteers who make a lasting impact every day, going above and beyond to support students after the final school bell rings!Learn more about ASP here: https://www.k12northstar.org/departments/student-support-services/after-school-programsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterSchoolProgramsFairbanks

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with Kara Candelaria, Fairbanks BEST Homeschool Head Teacher, to highlight the unique opportunities available to families who choose local homeschooling.

Together, they explore the benefits of the BEST program, the hands-on guidance families receive from dedicated education specialists, and how resources like the allotment empower personalized learning — including new curriculum options such as NCAA-approved Acellus.

The conversation also covers new locations, the importance of fostering a culture of belonging and community, and the many ways students connect through clubs, activities, and the district’s strategic plan. Whether you’re a current homeschool family or exploring options, this episode shows how Fairbanks BEST combines flexibility, community, and opportunity to help students thrive.

As we begin a new school year, Superintendent Dr. Meinert and School Board President Melissa Burnett sit down to reflect on the milestones and challenges of the past year, from strengthening family engagement to advancing literacy and growth for all. They share stories of how the school board, teachers, and staff made a lasting difference for students and families, and recognize the dedication of both new and returning staff.Looking ahead, the conversation highlights the district’s new strategic plan, the priorities it sets for the future, and how families can partner with schools to ensure student success. With excitement for the year ahead, our leaders discuss what families can expect, how the district is preparing to support every learner, and the vision guiding this next chapter for our schools.

In this episode of Alaska EdVenture, Dr. Meinert talks with local business leaders Les Nichols from Fairbanks Nissan and Sundog Community Fitness, and Kim Shriner, PA, from Borealis Med Spa, about their businesses, backgrounds, and their strong commitment to the Fairbanks community.

Les and Kim share what motivates them to give back and why they believe it’s essential for local businesses to support education. They reflect on last year’s donation and reveal the thoughtful staff appreciation gift they gave this year. Looking to the future, they discuss their ongoing plans to support the district and encourage other local businesses to get involved and make a lasting impact.

Guests: Les Nichols, Fairbanks Nissan & Sundog Community Fitness; Kim Shriner, PA, Borealis Med Spa

In this episode of Alaska EdVenture, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with Colonel Edward Borneo, Cadet/Chief Master Sergeant Sam Bull, and Cadet/Colonel Jordan Nichols to get an inside look at the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) at North Pole High School.

The group shares their unique backgrounds, roles, and what brought them into the program. They break down what JROTC is, from team structures like Drill Team, Color Guard, and Air Rifle, to the discipline and dedication it takes to compete at the state and national level. The students cover how JROTC has shaped their leadership, confidence, and school experiences, and offer honest insight into the challenges and rewards of the program. Whether you're a student thinking about joining or just curious about what JROTC is like, this episode offers an inspiring and informative glimpse into the cadet journey.

In this episode, Dr. Meinert is joined by Rebecca Hurbi and Joshua DuVall to explore the crucial role of communication within the school district.

They share their experiences, highlight the importance of clear communication, and discuss what makes working for a school district unique. The conversation also delves into the challenges of district-wide communication, how the district handles crises and inclement weather, and the strategies they use to keep families connected and informed. Additionally, they offer advice for aspiring communication students on developing their skills for a career in this field.

Guests: Rebecca Hurbi, executive director of communications, and Joshua DuVall, director of communications, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District.