Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast

Warehouse Supervisor sits down with Dr Ernst to discuss the science and planning that goes on behind the scenes at the warehouse to help our schools get many of the supplies they need each day. Learn about the growth and need of the warehouse as the district has also grown.

Cell phones in schools remain one of education's most talked-about topics. In this follow-up to one of our most popular episodes, Dr. Ernst sits down with Principal Ethan Wilford, teacher Heather Staten, and students Zayne Smith and Claire Cowley to talk about life after the policy changes, how students and staff have adapted, and whether the reality has matched expectations.

A simple question to the GEM students in episode 59 about Harry Potter opened the door to an energetic conversation about books, reading traditions, and Hogwarts houses. Whether you're a dedicated Potterhead or just curious what all the fuss is about, this Off the Record episode offers a fun glimpse into the passion of these students.

As a new NHL season gets underway and excitement around the Utah Mammoth continues to grow, we sit down with Griffin, now an eight-grade student at Grantsville Junior High School who is making a name for himself on the ice.

In this episode, Griffin shares how he first discovered hockey, what the sport has taught him about leadership and resilience, and how he balances practices, travel, academics, and family life. Joined by his father, Chisolm, and Grantsville Junior High Principal Amy Jaskowick, the conversation explores the rapid growth of hockey in Utah and the opportunities now available to young athletes.

Whether you're a hockey fan, a parent supporting a student athlete, or simply enjoy hearing stories of students pursuing their passions, Griffin's enthusiasm, perspective, and determination make for an inspiring listen.

What do UFC fighters, Parkinson's therapy programs, and a Grantsville High School social studies teacher have in common? In this episode, Dr. Mark Ernst talks with Brad Evans about Jukestir, an invention that challenges the brain as much as the body. What started as a better training tool for athletes has found unexpected applications in hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and beyond. Along the way, Brad shares how entrepreneurship, resilience, and creative thinking shape both his invention and his classroom.

This episode explores the upcoming UHSAA realignment process and some of the changes being used for high school athletics across Utah. Dr. Mark Ernst is joined by TCSD Activities Director Catham Beer and Tooele High Athletic Director Cody Valdez to discuss how classifications and regions will be determined, the official introduction of competitive balance and socioeconomic factors, potential impacts on travel and time away from school, and what athletes, parents, coaches, and communities should know as the process moves forward.

Dr Ernst sits down with Bob Curfew this week to discuss changes and updates in school and student safety. From wearable panic allerts to school guardians, tune in to learn about some of the things going on at the state and school level to help keep our students and employees safe.

We kick off another season of Elevated Insights by talking with Lisa Mecham, a teacher at Grantsville High School, and students Courtney and Chloe about the American Exchange Project. Similar to a foreign exchange program, this unique opportunity allows students from across the country to experience different communities and cultures right here in the United States.

We’ll hear about their experiences visiting other parts of the country, as well as from students who came to Tooele County. From perceptions of dirty sodas to experiences with thrifting, we’ll explore what they learned and how this experience helped them better understand the people and communities around them.

Join us as we start a new season of Elevated Insights and learn about travel, culture, and opportunities to learn and grow. 

What happens when students have a place where they feel supported, seen, and ready to focus on learning?

In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst records from Deseret Peak High School to spotlight the Teen Center and the people behind some of the district’s most meaningful student support services. Joined by Jennifer Firth, the district’s McKinney‑Vento Liaison; Kristine Naylor, Director of At‑Risk Students and Teen Centers; and Denise Martin, Teen Center aide at DPHS, the conversation explores how removing everyday barriers can completely change a student’s school experience.

Listeners hear how access to resources like food, hygiene items, laundry, quiet study space, and trusted adults helps students feel confident, connected, and ready to learn. The episode also features a powerful student letter describing how the DPHS Teen Center helped her improve her grades, rebuild confidence, and find a place where she truly belongs.

This is an uplifting, honest look at how schools, community partners, and the Tooele Education Foundation work together to support students not just academically, but socially and personally as well — and why these quiet supports matter more than most people realize.