Our Schools, Our Stories: The Wayne County Public Schools Podcast

The students of Eastern Wayne Elementary were recently gifted with a virtual meeting with the best-selling author Alan Gratz. He has penned many of our students' favorite books, including The Brooklyn Nine, Prisoner B-3087, Ground Zero, The League of Seven Series, Refugee, and the much-loved Elementary Battle of the Books title, Ban This Book. In this episode, I’m sitting down with Media Coordinator Christie Davis who brought this exciting opportunity to her school to learn more.

Join us for a captivating episode where we explore a unique project-based learning journey recently undertaken by the entire 5th-grade at Northwest Elementary School. Mrs. Courtney Howell, Mrs Erin Nelson, and their students joined me to talk about their extraordinary experience of creating a life-sized cardboard zoo, integrating science, math, and art. Discover the challenges they faced, the joys of learning, and the excitement of teaching others in their school-wide zoo exhibit. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative education and student creativity. Now, let the journey begin!

In this episode we have the privilege of speaking with Brooke Ash, an Interventionist from Northwest Elementary. Not only does she lead the MTSS process at her school, but she’s also significantly contributed to curriculum development for K-2 in the District, establishing herself as a pivotal figure in educational technology integration in Wayne County Public Schools. Today she’s here to share her insights on the impact of educational technology on teaching and learning. 

In this engaging episode of EdTech Journeys, we delve into the innovative world of elementary STEM education with a special focus on interactive learning. Our guest, a dedicated elementary teacher, shares her experiences and insights from the recent “wax museum” her students created for the Wayne County STEAM Festival in which they brought historical STEAM figures to life. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of teaching young learners, the importance of hands-on projects, and the integration of technology in education. This conversation offers a unique glimpse into how creative teaching methods can inspire a love for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics in the next generation.

In this episode of EdTech Journeys, we delve into the world of high school Career and Technical Education with two dedicated CTE teachers who specialize in teaching Adobe software. They share insights into Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign courses, discussing the benefits of earning Adobe certifications, engaging projects, and the role of technology in preparing students for future careers. Join us as we explore the exciting impact of educational technology and students' creative and digital skills development. Stay through the end to have a little fun with our guests and our Five-in-Five segment!

This is a really fun episode in which Christy White and Andrew Bass discuss a very unique summer program offered in Wayne County Public Schools. STEMKAMP is done in collaboration with the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, and is funded through a grant from DoD STEM, Goshen Education Consulting, and iBIO.

In this episode, we are joined by Iris Ellington, Virtual Instruction Consultant with NC Rethink Education. Iris shares her wealth of knowledge about Blended Learning and the NC Rethink Education initiative that Wayne County Public Schools has been a part of over the last three years. We discuss the strides made in improving classroom instruction and the impact that it brings. Join us in learning more! Now, let the journey begin!

This is an extra-long episode filled with charming anecdotes and insights you won't want to miss. Mrs. Edgerton is a dedicated, determined teacher who truly loves her students and is passionate about her field. Come meet her, gain insight into the world of exceptional children, and learn about some of the adaptive tools that enhance learning and the incredible differences these simple devices have made for her students and their families. And be sure to stay to the end for our 5-in-5 to get a glimpse into her personal thoughts and interests.

In this interesting episode, we get to know Dr. Marc Whichard, the new Superintendent of Wayne County Public Schools. He will share his thoughts about education, instructional technology, and his hopes for the future. And stick around to the end for our lively 5-in-5 to get to know him on a more personal level. Welcome to Season 2! Now, let the journey begin!

Join us on location at NCBOLD in Rocky Mount. Mr. Yancey talks with the organizers of DPI's "Professional Development Roadshow" as well as many of the attendees who share what they learned.