The Breaking Boundaries Triathlon is so much more than a race. It's about students of all abilities coming together, challenging themselves, lifting each other up, and showing what true teamwork and inclusion look like.  In this episode, athletes and mentors share their stories, the emotional moments behind the scenes, and how this incredible event has changed their lives - and our community - for the better.

In this episode of Ghost Stories, our guest is Detective Lieutenant Mike Sewall from the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office. Detective Sewall, an expert in internet crimes against children, shares crucial advice on ensuring online safety for students and families. He discusses the prevalence of online threats like sextortion and cyberbullying, the importance of privacy settings on popular platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, and practical steps for parents to protect their children online. He also emphasizes the importance of trust, open communication, and responsible digital behavior. This episode aims to empower parents and students with the knowledge they need to navigate the complex digital world safely.

01:01 Introducing Detective Lieutenant Mike Sewall
02:41 Mike Sewall's Background and Experience
04:09 Day-to-Day Work of an Internet Crimes Detective
05:55 Posing as a Child Online
07:32 The Prevalence of Snapchat in Online Crimes
08:45 Privacy Settings and Sextortion
14:57 Trust and Communication with Your Child
17:30 Other Social Media Platforms: Instagram and Facebook
19:33 Digital Identity and Privacy
20:20 Social Media Platforms and Privacy Settings
21:35 Parental Guidance and Child Safety Online
23:57 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
27:54 Screen Time and Its Consequences
31:17 Empowering Kids and Parents
36:18 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

This month’s episode of Ghost Stories features Head Wrestling Coach Jeff Matczak, junior Liam Crook, and freshman Ron Ramadani to talk about Kaukauna Wrestling’s dynasty and what fuels their success. Fresh off their fifth straight state title, they share how discipline, mental toughness, and brotherhood set the standard for excellence. They also dive into what it’s like for newcomers to adapt to the program, the challenge of balancing academics and athletics, and the unmatched support from the Kaukauna community. Beyond the wins, they reflect on how wrestling teaches lessons that stick with them for life.

This episode is all about KHS’s brand new, innovative Business Incubator class. Designed to equip students with entrepreneurial skills, this class goes beyond traditional classroom learning by involving students in real-world business development tasks. Featuring insights from business teacher Rob VanderHeiden, local business mentor Sydney Hummell, and students Kyle Kress, Sam Weber, and Logan Arft, the episode highlights how the class exemplifies practical education that prepares students for life beyond high school, fostering adaptability, leadership, and teamwork.

This episode features yet another impressive student-led initiative at Kaukauna High School. Sources of Strength students Anna and Daisy, along with their advisor, Emily Gross, discuss the group's planning for an upcoming winter spirit week.  Learn about the activities in store, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community engagement, and hear more about KHS students who are shaping the positive culture of our school.

This episode is all about the impactful initiative 'Merry Mental Health,' aimed at supporting students and staff during the holiday season. Student leaders Allie Resch and Bo Kaschner, along with school nurse Emily Jansen, share their experiences and insights about this student-led initiative. Merry Mental Health includes various activities such as cookie decorating, gift wrapping, and mindfulness exercises to alleviate holiday stress. The episode highlights the importance of mental health support and the collaborative efforts of various student organizations to make the holiday season more joyful for all.

This fascinating episode of Ghost Stories features our foreign exchange students joining us at Kaukauna High School this year: Salome Boisrame from France, Camille Dolisy from Belgium, Giovanna Sidoti from Brazil, and Kosta Vasilev from North Macedonia.

The students share insights about their home countries, cultural differences, and their experiences and challenges adjusting to life in the United States. They also reflect on the unique aspects of American culture and education while discussing what they hope to take back from their time in Wisconsin. 

00:37 Meet the Exchange Students
01:45 Sharing About Home Countries
06:46 Cultural Impressions and Differences
18:49 School Life
26:30 Locker Struggles and School Differences
31:27 Academic Pressure and Mental Health
40:29 Extracurricular Activities and Involvement
42:34 Future Travel Plans
48:17 Reflections and Takeaways

This episode features key members of Kaukauna High School's upcoming musical production of ‘Mean Girls’. Cast members Kaci Franzen (Regina George), Molly Poffenroth (Janis Ian), and Max Aschauer (Aaron Samuels), along with vocal director Joy Poffenroth, share their insights on the efforts that go into staging a high school musical. The students also discuss the sense of community, personal growth, and the friendships forged through theater.

Mean Girls goes on stage at Kaukauna High School on November 7, 8, and 9th.  Get your tickets here: https://cur8.com/22718/project/125342

This episode features Technology & Engineering Teacher Dan VanBoxtel and his students, Auttumm Sauerhammer and Keegan VanKauwenberg. They discuss the evolution and impact of the Auto Shop program at Kaukauna High School. Mr. Van Boxtel shares his 42-year journey in education, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning. Auttumm and Keegan highlight the value of hands-on experience in their chosen career paths. The episode underscores the significance of tech ed classes and the opportunities they provide, including dual credit courses and working with advanced equipment. The conversation also touches on breaking stigmas associated with tech ed and encouraging more female students to explore these fields.

This episode of Ghost Stories features members of the Kaukauna Ghost football team on the eve of the new season. Coach Matt Binsfeld, along with senior players Sam DiPiazza and Reed Wittman, discuss the team's culture, the bonding experience of their overnight camp, and memorable moments such as last year’s big homecoming game victory and community service projects. Additionally, they share insights on growth, leadership, and team spirit as they prepare for their senior season.