Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast

In the latest podcast episode featuring COL James Harwell, Dugway Commander, listeners are taken to the Dugway School for a unique insight into the Dugway Proving Grounds mission and community life. The engaging conversation covers a range of topics, including COL Harwell's personal experiences living in over 34 homes, Dugway's status as the 4th largest Army installation sprawling across nearly 800,000 acres, and intriguing events like the Alien Invasion Run. The discussion also touches on space-related activities, such as the retrieval of a sample from OSIRIS-REx and near Space Shuttle landings. Whether you're well-versed in Dugway or just starting to explore its significance, you're bound to discover something new about this vitally important military community right in our own backyard. COL Harwell's personable leadership style and his embrace of the community shine through in this informative and engaging episode.

In this podcast episode, we'll introduce Sean Fetherston, a passionate biology and physics teacher at Tooele High School and the new district science fair coordinator. Sean's journey to education wasn't always the plan, and he'll share his professional background before joining the Tooele County School District.

In the second part of our discussion on student safety, we once again sit down with Dr. Ernst, Bob Curfew, and Mert Russo. We dive deeper into the measures aimed at ensuring the safety of students and employees within our schools. We discuss critical components such as Standard Response Protocols terms like "secure," "lockdown," and "evacuate." Additionally, we explore apps and software solutions like SafeUT and Bark. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone concerned with enhancing school safety, as knowledge and awareness among students, employees, parents, and law enforcement play a crucial role in strengthening our school security efforts.

Discover the crucial role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in ensuring school safety in this week's episode. In an era where school safety is paramount, this episode dives into the relationship between SROs and the school district. Join us as Mert Russo, the SRO at Stansbury High School, and Bob Curfew, the director of safety and security for the district, engage in a conversation with Dr. Ernst. This episode marks the first of a two-part series, providing valuable insights into this important aspect of our education system.

From two friends with a passion for mountain biking to nearly 50 riders and an official team, join us as we talk to Collin Black, Nate Brady, and Leland Roberts about the start and growth of mountain biking in Tooele County.

In episode 5 of our podcast, we continue our exploration with Scott and Mark from Hughes Construction, focusing on the exciting updates at Deseret Peak High School. Discover the innovative features aimed at enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. We'll also explore the unique aspects of the school, including college-style learning spaces, functional aesthetics, and improved conveniences for sports and activity groups. Plus, Mark shares a unique experience where employees from Hughes, the architects, and the district went on a hike to the actual Deseret Peak. 

This week we're joined by Mark Spence and Scott Walters, graduates of Tooele High and now part of Hughes Construction leadership who is building Deseret Peak High School. We delve into their roles in the construction of the new high school and discuss influential teachers like Niles Broadhead and Brent Eggett who helped to inspire their careers. This discussion will cover two episodes offering a closer look at projects enhancing our educational facilities and community relationships, showcasing the progress being made.

Join us in this episode of "Elevated Insights" as we delve into the world of school lunch. We'll explore gluten-free options with student Eliza Cowan, have a conversation with her mom, Chantel, and hear from Clarke N Johnsen's lunchroom manager, Misty Johnson. We'll be covering everything from corndogs and mashed potatoes to firework salad, and of course, a mention of Adam Sandler's popular parody, "Lunch Lady Land." Whether you're a student, parent, or just curious about school lunches, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in and savor the delicious details!

Amid the spirited celebrations of homecoming at several of our high schools, join us today as we dive into the heart of school traditions. In this engaging episode, Superintendent Ernst talks with Kenna Aagard and Rowe Harrison, exploring the vibrant role traditions play in shaping our students' school experience.

In our debut episode, we dive into the world of education with an enlightening conversation featuring two dedicated teachers, Jenn Kinville from Willow Elementary and Chris Wilcox from Tooele High. Dr. Ernst moderates the discussion as our guests shed light on what it takes to prepare for school from a teacher's perspective. They offer valuable advice for parents while also sharing personal stories about their unique paths to becoming teachers.