How would you like to be part of the transformative journey that is reshaping the landscape of Franklin County Schools? Your hosts, Superintendent Mark Kopp and Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Perkins, are all set to give you a firsthand look at the exciting developments that are making headlines in your neighborhood! From the new grandstands at our high schools to the innovative lighting features that are about to transform games into mesmerizing light shows, we're making strides in redesigning our facilities for our students' future. What's more, we're racing against time to have these ready for the big game in October. We're also progressing on the demolition of the old central office and a major renovation of the transportation department's parking lot. 

But, we're not stopping there! Our vision for Franklin County Schools extends beyond the present. We’re eager to share our ambitious plans for auxiliary gyms and new greenhouses, bringing enhanced learning spaces to both sides of town. Meanwhile, we share an update on the progress of purchasing property for the purpose of building a new school! As we shape the future of our facilities, we're also placing emphasis on the indispensable role of the Ag department in our curriculum – a testament to our commitment to holistic education. We're all ears for your feedback and questions, so don't hesitate to voice them. Strap in for a fascinating conversation that promises to be packed with updates, plans, and the pulse of Franklin County Schools!

Have you ever wondered how a simple idea can transform into a powerful movement? Olivia Atkins, Caroline Blackburn, and Griffin McElmuray, a trio of remarkable students from Franklin County High School, are here to share their journey of creating the Flyers Care Project - an initiative that began with creating t-shirts and evolved into a life-affirming message delivered through banners in the high school and cards delivered to every student. These cards, a symbol of hope and resilience, remind every student that they matter and have the strength to seek help.

Discover the story behind the Flyers Care Project, as our guests recount the beginnings and the ongoing impact of their mission. This is an episode about courage, empathy, and the power of community. We explore not just the project but also delve into the personal interests of our guests, bringing to you a blend of enriching conversation and inspiring stories. Additionally, we throw light on two pivotal district-wide programs, the Stop Tip Line and the Safe Schools Helpline, that serve as complementary forces to the Flyers Care Project. Through this episode, we honor and celebrate the commendable efforts of Olivia, Caroline, and Griffin in fostering a safer and more caring school environment.

Ready to cheer on our victorious local high school football teams? We’re celebrating the stellar start to the season, but there’s more to tackle. From the late summer heatwave that's playing havoc with our outdoor school activities, to the ACP initiatives providing discounted internet and technology to eligible families, to the new attendance goals and policies, and exciting technology initiatives, we dive into it all with our esteemed guests, Stella Pollard, our Director of Technology, and Whitney Allison, our new Director of Pupil Personnel. Don't miss out on their expert insights and important updates. 

We kick off the episode discussing the recent triumphs of the Franklin County High School and Western Hills High School football teams before turning our attention to weather-related concerns. With a heat advisory in effect, we're putting students' safety first and postponing all outdoor activities till later in the evening. We also delve into the district's goals for attendance and policies, particularly in light of the absence of a COVID-related excuse this year. Hear Stella elaborate on our district's technology initiatives, from the student-led technology program (STLP) to the 1:1 Chromebook initiative. Stay tuned for this lively conversation filled with school updates, expert perspectives, and amusing tidbits.

Get ready to hear from Superintendent Mark Kopp discussing the latest happenings in our school district. We express our gratitude for the families and staff who've made the start of the school year such a success. Also on our radar are the upcoming preschool screenings, and we have an enlightening conversation with Erin Harrell, our coordinator for early childhood and preschool. We unwrap the screening process, the roles, and even get a little personal with Erin.

Switching gears, we plunge straight into football season - a time marked by anticipation, excitement, and intense preparation. Hear directly from our high school football coaches, Eddie James and Simon Vanderpool, about their preparations for the season. With their sheer dedication, exhaustive efforts, and the resilient bonds they've forged with their players, they share a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a successful team. Learn how they balance fundraising efforts while keeping in mind that their team members are kids first and foremost.

We've made some impressive upgrades to our athletic facilities – all for the love of sports and our students. From state-of-the-art turf fields to grandstands, our domain has seen a transformation. These improvements proudly serve not just our football teams, but other sports as well. Our coaches spill on their goals for the season, revealing the influences that have shaped their careers. As we wrap up, we extend our best wishes for the upcoming Battle of Elkhorn Creek. Stay tuned on FCS Unscripted for all the updates and interviews.

What if you could peek behind the curtains of a thriving school district and learn about the unsung heroes who make it all possible? Well, that’s exactly what we’re doing in this episode of FCS Unscripted! As your host, Superintendent Mark Kopp, I’m taking you on a tour of Franklin County Schools' first week back. Hear about the remarkable work of our transportation and maintenance departments, the bus drivers, mechanics, monitors, and our diligent custodians who all contributed to making our students' journey to school safe, efficient, and memorable.

We're also turning the spotlight on the impressive work of our Food and Nutrition Department, where we chat with our very own Christie Pritchett, Director of Food and Nutrition Services. She's the genius behind our summer feeding program, which served an astounding 76,000 meals! Christie gives us an insight into her role, ensuring that every student gets a nutritious, healthy meal. We also discuss a significant legislative development aimed at strengthening access to a federal program that lets qualifying schools offer meals for free to all students. So, strap in and join us as we celebrate our accomplishments and anticipate an exciting school year ahead.

This back to school special episode features helpful information, fun fact of the week, and two very special interviews.