Glenbrook Insights

In this episode of the Glenbrooks Insights Podcast, host Dr. R.J. Gravel discusses the District’s ten-year master facility plan. The District collaborates with Arcon Associates once a decade to evaluate 1.3 million square feet of building space and 128 acres of campus. Expert guests Lauren Bonner, Dr. Kim Ptak, and Erin Miller join the conversation to detail the roadmap for these facility upgrades and the financing behind them.

The discussion emphasizes that this plan is a promise to the community, focusing on intentionally designing environments for future learners. A key priority is ensuring these improvements are made without placing an extra financial burden on taxpayers. Ultimately, the episode highlights how the District balances infrastructure needs with community feedback to support the student experience.

Guests:

• Lauren Bonner, Incoming Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Student Experiences
• Dr. Kim Ptak, Director of Operations
• Erin Miller - Arcon Associates, Principal Architect 

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

Join host Dr. R.J. Gravel on this episode of the Glenbrook Insights Podcast as we go behind the scenes of this year’s district musical, Cinderella. Debuting on April 23rd, this massive production showcases the incredible talent of 148 students across the cast, stage crew, and orchestra pit. We explore the collaborative effort required to bring this timeless fairy tale to life on the Glenbrook stage. Whether you are a fan of the arts or a member of the local community, you won't want to miss this look into our students' hard work. Tune in to hear how our "impossible" production became a reality. 

Guests:

• Mandi Corrao, GBS Musical Director
• Tim Broeker, GBN Musical Director
• GBS senior Maddy Preston, Cinderella
• GBN senior Teagan Thunholm, Orchestra pit

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

In this episode of Glenbrook Insights, host Dr. R.J. Gravel explores the vital role of community engagement in driving student success across the district. Whether you are a new family or a seasoned Spartan or Titan, this conversation highlights practical ways to get involved through organizations such as the Booster Club and the Parents Association. Dr. Gravel also discusses how the 10-Year Master Facility Plan remains a collaborative effort, inviting community feedback on major projects, such as stadium renovations, to ensure the Board of Education’s decisions are directly informed by the voices of our families.

Guests:

• Edward Haravon, GBS Booster Club President 
• Jane Ciancanelli, GBN Parents Association Membership Chair
• Carol Smith, Executive Director of Communications

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

In this episode of Glenbrook Insights, titled “ Incoming Families Enrollment Roadmap to Freshman Year,” host Dr. R.J. Gravel explains to families of incoming freshmen how to navigate the busy months ahead. From course selection to curriculum night, we walk you through the full SchooLinks and course request process, highlighting key dates such as the December 15 webinar and counselor visits, and explaining when families will receive course recommendations. You’ll also hear what to expect at Incoming Freshman Night on January 8 at both GBN and GBS. Finally, we outline the process for officially registering students for classes starting the week of January 20.

Guests:

• Dr. Lara Cummings, Assistant Superintendent of Student Support
• Dr. Lauren O’Malley, GBN Assistant Principal of Student Services
• Rebecca Holst, GBS Assistant Principal of Student Services

Student Producer: Dylan Porthan 

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

In this episode of Glenbrook Insights, titled "New Year, Fresh Start," host R.J. Gravel reflects on the excitement and nerves that come with the start of a new school year. Drawing from his own experiences, he emphasizes the importance of early connections and opportunities to build community before classes even begin. The episode highlights the various ways students and families can prepare and get involved, from new campus renovations and academic programs to enhanced parent engagement and support systems—all designed to ensure a strong, connected start to the school year across the Glenbrook schools.

Guests:

• Dr. Barbara Georges, Principal, Glenbrook South
• Mrs. Mandy Hughes, Principal, Glenbrook North
• Mr. Doug Schiller, Assistant Director of Special Education, Glenbrook Off Campus and 
• Mrs. Stacey Wolfe, Assistant Director of Special Education, Glenbrook Transition Services

Student producer: Ryder Stone

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

In this episode of Glenbrook Insights, host R.J. Gravel is joined by Dr. Mark Maranto and Dr. Mike Tarjan to celebrate the end of the school year and reflect on the memorable moments that defined it. They discuss senior awards ceremonies, standout traditions like the Glenbrook Musical, and impactful service projects such as the joint Food Drive and Gold Rush fundraiser. The conversation highlights the strong sense of community across Glenbrook North and South and encourages students to get involved in the upcoming school year. Listeners are also given a preview of what's ahead for 2025-26, including ways to connect through student activities.

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

In this essential back-to-school episode, Glenbrook High School District 225 is laying out the ultimate blueprint to help families get fully prepared for the first day of school. From registering your student and submitting the right health forms to scheduling appointments at the Glenbrook School Health Center, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also walk you through how to pick up instructional materials, sign up for a bus pass, and what incoming freshmen can expect during orientation. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with helpful reminders and insider tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free start to the school year.

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel

Guests: Dr. Lara Cummings, Alexandra Gan, Katie McKeown, Julie Shellard

Student Producer: Ryder Stone

Host: Dr. R.J. Gravel