Ever wondered how young leaders balance school, entrepreneurship, and community service? Meet Elle Bevington and Stephen Lemon, our star student board members from Franklin County High School and Western Hills High School. Elle, a senior, is not just class president but also an entrepreneur running her own gift shop, Neat Down South. Stephen, a junior, is diving headfirst into dual-enrollment courses while sharing his culinary adventures on his YouTube channel, Chef Lemonhead. Join us for a lively chat where they reveal their secrets to juggling it all and making a real impact in their schools.

Elle takes us on a journey from an empty corner of her parents’ dealership to running a bustling gift shop known for its last-minute treasures and school spirit wear. Meanwhile, Stephen serves up his favorite culinary creation, a mouthwatering steak sandwich, and talks about how his YouTube channel fuels his passion for cooking. From student leadership and entrepreneurial endeavors to personal growth, this episode promises a hearty serving of inspiration straight from the lives of two of Franklin County's brightest young minds. Tune in to hear how they're using their roles to bridge the gap between students and the Board of Education, making sure every student voice is heard.

Jennifer Kantner's journey from local student to board chair of Franklin County Schools is both inspiring and deeply personal. Growing up in Frankfort and now guiding the educational future for her two daughters, Jennifer offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of ensuring quality education. As she steps into her role, she candidly shares what it’s like to be a key decision-maker, highlighting the joys of school visits and graduations while tackling the tougher side of the position, such as managing community complaints. Her collaboration with the superintendent underscores her dedication to community engagement and educational excellence.

But Jennifer’s impact extends beyond board meetings. Her commitment to community service shines through her work with the Daughters of the American Revolution and as co-founder of the Imagination Library of Frankfort, where she fosters literacy by delivering books to young children. Amidst discussions of new local projects like Western Hills’ auxiliary gym, we also explore her personal side—from her love for "The Princess Bride" and pizza to her fondness for Hallmark movies. Jennifer Kantner isn’t just shaping Franklin County Schools; she’s a beacon of service and passion, influencing her community in multifaceted ways.

Imagine waking up to a winter wonderland, only to wonder if school is still on. Superintendent Kopp shares his personal journey from childhood snow days in southern Ohio to the challenging decisions he faces today as head of Franklin County Schools. Discover the meticulous process that unfolds as early as 3:30 a.m., when Kopp, alongside Brad McKinney and Jennifer Perkins, ventures out to assess road conditions across a sprawling and diverse county. By 5 a.m., they must decide whether to declare a snow day, ensuring parents, students, and staff are informed through a range of communication channels—social media, TV, and direct calls—striking a balance between early alerts and restful sleep.

Join us as we unravel the complexities and strategies behind making these crucial calls. With safety as the guiding principle, Kopp outlines the challenges and responsibilities tied to school closure decisions and the commitment to transparency and timely communication with the One Team, FCS community. This episode promises a deeper understanding of the factors influencing these decisions and offers insights into the balance between educational obligations and the safety of students and staff. Whether you're a concerned parent, a curious student, or just someone who loves a good snow day story, tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how Franklin County Schools navigates the winter months.

Can public tax dollars pave the path for private education? Join us on FCS Unscripted as we confront this pressing issue with superintendents Mark Kopp, SherI Satterly, Sheila Mitchell, and Billy Parker. The spotlight is on Amendment 2, A legislative measure that could drastically reshape education funding. With 100,000 students currently outside the public system, we explore the potential $420 million financial burden local taxpayers might face and question the equitable use of public funds. Our guest superintendents provide personal anecdotes and insights, unraveling the tangled web of misinformation, including misleading promises about increased teacher salaries.

In this episode, we also shed light on the possible constitutional challenges this amendment poses. Our discussion stresses the importance of civic engagement and the need for informed decision-making within communities. As we conclude, the camaraderie and collaboration among educational leaders take center stage. We invite you to subscribe and join us for weekly updates, promising engaging stories from our exceptional students and staff who continue to inspire and drive a fair and inclusive public education system.

What if your local school's facilities could rival those of a professional sports complex? Join us on this episode of FCS Unscripted, where we sit down with Jennifer Perkins, Chief Operating Officer of Franklin County Schools, to discover the transformative upgrades sweeping the district. From the expansive new grandstands at our football fields, perfect for packed graduation ceremonies, to the immersive LED lights that add a dynamic flair to high school sports events, Jennifer offers an inside look at the innovation shaping our students' experiences.

Jennifer also sheds light on the meticulous work behind resurfacing our school tracks to ensure athlete safety and longevity. Learn about the strategic measures, like protective covers for the tracks, that underline our commitment to excellence. Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, this episode promises a detailed and inspiring exploration of how these enhancements are already making a lasting impact on the Franklin County community. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive update on the exciting developments in our district!

What if you could unlock the secrets to a thriving school year, straight from the minds of our passionate Franklin County Schools administrators? Get ready to be inspired as we chat with leaders who are buzzing with excitement and innovative ideas for the 2024 academic season. Starting with Megan Barton and Brittany Beach from Hearn Elementary, you'll hear about their dynamic plans to engage students and strengthen community connections. Sarah Vivian and Ashley Scott from the Academy share their eagerness to support students and build new partnerships, while Adam Nance shines a light on unique pathways to graduation at Future Forward and William Cofield High School, emphasizing the importance of removing barriers for student success.

Ever wondered what keeps our middle school leaders motivated and ready for another year? Principal Enoch Welch, Assistant Principal Joey Thacker, and CIA/Dean Taylor Ricketts from Bondurant Middle School reflect on their goals and the continuity they hope to build from last year. Their perspectives offer a glimpse into the positive and engaging learning environment they are dedicated to fostering. And for a lighter twist, you’ll discover fun facts about their favorite movies and foods, adding a personal touch to their professional insights.

As we wrap up this episode, we extend our heartfelt thanks to you, our listeners, for your continued support and enthusiasm. Stay connected with FCS Unscripted by subscribing and following for weekly updates, information, and interviews. Celebrate the collaborative spirit of OneTeamFCS, and join us in showcasing the wonderful students and staff who make our community vibrant. Here's to an exciting year ahead!

What does it take to make decisions that truly prioritize the needs of students, even when they're not popular with the adults? Dive into this thought-provoking conversation with Mr. Chuck Fletcher, an experienced board member of Franklin County Schools, as he joins Superintendent Kopp on FCS Unscripted. With eight years of dedicated service under his belt, Chuck talks about the value of teamwork and student-centered leadership within the board. We take a closer look at his extensive community involvement, especially through the Kiwanis organization, and his rich background in education, providing him a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of improving a school district.

From the opening of William Cofield High School to increasing graduation rates and upgrading facilities, Chuck and Superintendent Kopp reflect on the board's significant achievements over the past eight years. They discuss crucial topics like competitive teacher salaries, diverse educational pathways, and community engagement, including facility upgrades. This episode wraps up with a fun personal segment as Chuck shares his favorite sports, teams, and movies, adding a lighter touch to this engaging discussion. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful episode that uncovers the collaborative efforts behind a thriving educational community.

Prepare for a celebration like no other, as wereveal the ins and outs of our upcoming graduation festivities in Franklin County. This Saturday’s ceremonies are not just a rite of passage; they're the culmination of years of dedication from our students. In this special episode of FCS Unscripted, we whisk you behind the scenes to explore the preparations and contingencies in place for our outdoor extravaganzas at Franklin County High School and Western Hills High School. And let's not forget the additional cheers slated for the Academy and William Cofield High School graduates – their achievements deserve just as grand a spotlight.

Grab your ponchos and join us in the excitement, as we share the latest updates and practical tips to make the most of this memorable day. From weather updates via social media to holding areas in case of severe weather, we've got it all covered. Plus, we will guide you on how to stay comfortable and safe while you cheer on our stars of the day. Whether under sunny skies or amidst light showers, we're gearing up to commemorate the hard-earned successes of our graduates. So tune in and get ready for an unforgettable graduation season here in Franklin County.

Feel the rush of anticipation as Franklin County Schools gear up for pivotal moments that set the pace for the future. I'm Superintendent Mark Kopp, and in this episode of FCS Unscripted, we're crossing the academic finish line with the same gusto as Derby contenders in their final furlong. Join us as we explore the vital contributions of the Frankfort Plant Board, detailed by our esteemed guests Cathy Lindsey and David Columbia. They shine a light on the invaluable support our schools receive, from scholarships that fuel student ambitions to local productions that broadcast the inspiring stories of our young achievers.

As the school year barrels towards its grand finale, we can't help but celebrate the alliances that bolster our community's spirit. This week's conversation not only underscores the excitement surrounding state assessments and the fast-approaching graduation ceremonies for our dedicated seniors, but also serves as a heartfelt thank-you note to the Frankfort Plant Board for their steadfast partnership. Whether you're a parent, an educator, or a local Frankfort resident, there's inspiration here for everyone. So, subscribe to FCS Unscripted, and let's raise a toast to a week brimming with collaboration and the achievements of #OneTeamFCS.

Step into a powerful retelling of history as we unite with Katima Smith-Willis, Kristy Powe, and Larry Murphy to illuminate the profound lessons of the 1964 March on Frankfort. Our discussion promises to bridge generations, revealing how the march not only shaped local history but continues to inspire current and future activists. Together, we dissect the event's monumental influence on the struggle for equality, celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and Jackie Robinson while spotlighting the role Franklin County Schools play in keeping the spirit of unity alive. As we gear up for the upcoming re-creation of the march, slated for March 5th, 2024, we uncover the intricate planning involved in bringing diverse communities together to honor this beacon of progress in race relations.

Amidst the echoes of the past, we pivot to the present-day significance of youth engagement in social justice, emphasizing the crucial part they play in shaping a just future. Our conversation with our esteemed guests underscores the importance of fostering dialogue—beyond political lines—to cultivate a society that champions equality for all. And as we wind down, we don't miss the chance to connect on a more personal level, exchanging our favorite movie picks that allow for a moment of levity amidst our profound discourse. This episode is an invitation to witness the tapestry of change that is woven when education, community, and history converge.