Our Superintendent, Dr. Jared Cotton, shares his excitement for the new school year, even after 34 years in education! In this conversation, he dives into the district’s Empower 2030 strategic plan, developed through collaboration with students, teachers, and the community. The plan highlights student mental health, innovative learning, and school improvements. Dr. Cotton also discusses the new SmithTech program at Oscar Smith Middle School, a cutting-edge space for STEM learning, and his commitment to student voice, giving them a direct influence on district decisions. From new sports programs to safety initiatives, Dr. Cotton believes students should always feel heard and valued. Tune in for more insights and ways to engage with Chesapeake Public Schools!

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Three extraordinary student-athletes share their journeys of balancing high-level competitive sports with academic excellence. Sophie Rambo (track), Caleb Neal (wrestling), and Jaden Dabbs (football) discuss what it takes to succeed in both arenas while maintaining focus and determination.

• Sophie Rambo from Grassfield High has won nine state titles in track and placed second at New Balance Nationals, with goals to compete in the 2028 Olympics
• Caleb Neal rom Great Bridge High is a four-time state wrestling champion who ranks 11th nationally and placed fourth at senior nationals
• Jaden Dabbs from Oscar Smith High, has won multiple state championships in football and was nationally ranked in track, now headed to Army West Point

All three emphasize the importance of time management, overcoming setbacks, and provide valuable advice for parents and students! Listen today and join us again next season for more inspiring stories from Chesapeake Public Schools!

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Our 20th episode pulls back the curtain on the powerful community partnerships that help us excel. We're joined by DeShonna Brown (Chesapeake Council PTA President), Chris Crouch (Educational Foundation Chair), and Sean Murphy (Foundation Board Member and Grassfield alumnus) for a candid conversation about supporting our schools.

Whether you're a parent wondering how to get involved, a business looking to connect with schools, or simply someone who cares about education, this episode offers practical pathways to make a difference. After all, as our guests remind us, the strength of our schools reflects the strength of our community involvement.

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School safety is paramount and in this episode, we delve into the innovative strategies that we employ to ensure the well-being of our students. We highlight key initiatives like the Raptor Alert system and student ID badges that help in monitoring attendance and security. During our discussion, educators share their experiences and emphasize the importance of forming strong relationships with students to promote a culture of safety. 

As we navigate the complexities of school life today, issues such as vaping and the impact of social media on student behavior also take center stage. Officer Ellyson from Great Bridge Middle School joins us to provide insights into the law enforcement perspective on these issues and the vital role of open communication between students, parents, and staff. 

School safety is a collective responsibility. Discover how everyone—from school resource officers to teachers—is dedicated to creating a nurturing and secure environment. Subscribe today for valuable insights and practical tips on keeping our schools safe for everyone!

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On the latest episode, we celebrate Virginia Principals Appreciation Week by speaking with three dedicated school leaders who share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for fostering positive school environments. Their insights emphasize the importance of relationship-building, community engagement, and resilience in education, revealing how they support both students and staff.

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Launched in the fall of 2024, the Power of the Peake is our new Employee Recognition Program and this episode shines a light on the program and our first award recipients in the areas of SUPPORT, TEACH, and LEAD. Listen today as they share their story and why they are the Power of the Peake!

October Power of the Peake Recipients:

• SUPPORT: Van Gholston (Western Branch Primary Custodian)
• TEACH: Laura Labyak (Indian River Middle Instructional Specialist)
• LEAD: Melissa Oliver (Chesapeake Public Schools Director of Assessment & Accountability)

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Explore how technology is transforming education with Maria Kainz, a first-year English teacher at Oscar Smith High, and Andrew LeClair, a technology innovation coach from Hickory Middle. Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges of incorporating AI into classrooms, offering insights on how it can enhance personalized learning and prepare students for a tech-driven world. This episode highlights their dedication to creating thoughtful, ethical approaches to using AI while inspiring meaningful conversations about its role in education. 

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In our latest podcast episode, Dr. Jeffrey Faust, our Chief Technology Innovation Officer, explores how we are starting to incorporate artificial intelligence in our schools. He shares AI’s practical applications, addressing how it helps streamline teacher workloads, while also touching on critical considerations such as data privacy and the ethical implications of AI in learning environments.

Listen today on your favorite podcast platforms, as we explore the evolving landscape of education technology and the importance of equipping students and teachers with the skills and best practices needed to thrive in a future shaped by AI.

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Today, we sit down with Matt Graham and Chris Vail to unpack Chesapeake Public Schools' "Away for the Day" cell phone policy, aligned with Governor Youngkin's Executive Order 33. You'll hear firsthand accounts from Principal Jeff Johnson, teacher Corey Perillo, and senior Katelynn Diehl from Great Bridge High School. They share their unique experiences, challenges faced, and the surprisingly positive outcomes of this policy. You'll also hear some practical tips and strategies for balancing screen time. Don't miss this discussion on the broader implications of this policy and how it contributes to a more meaningful, secure, and engaged educational experience for everyone involved.

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Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton as he shares the extensive preparations that pave the way for a smooth and successful new school year. He also provides invaluable tips for parents, teachers, and students to start the year off right. Listen today on your favorite podcast platforms and visit cpschools.com/amplified to learn more about the podcast!

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