Episode 19 features Dr. Alexis Jones, a professor at EIU in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Foundations. In this interview we discussed several different topics including how the pandemic has effected rural education and what Dr. Jones believes to be the greatest compliment a teacher can receive. I really enjoyed this conversation, and I hope you do as well!

Episode 18 features Todd Vilardo, the superintendent of schools for the Charleston School District. In this interview we discussed the importance of effective rural education, and what makes rural education different from education in an urban area. Todd Vilardo also talks about his journey through education. This was a great and uplifting conversation, and I hope you enjoy it!

Episode 17 features Paul Penrod, a teacher at the Martinsville Jr. Sr. High School. He primarily teaches math, but has worn many different hats over the years. Our conversation went from talking about his journey to becoming a rural educator to why he loves doing what he does. This was a great conversation to have, and I hope you enjoy it!

Episode 16 features Dr. Kathryn Havercroft, a professor for the Special Education Department at Eastern Illinois University. In this episode she discusses her journey to becoming a professor in Special Education, along with her involvement in several organizations including the Special Olympics. This was a great and fascinating conversation to have, with a recurring theme of "accessible education for everyone". Hope you enjoy!

This episode features Makenna Boyd, an Education and English student at EIU who has begun her first semester of student teaching. She teaches English at the Arcola High School. She discusses her experiences leading up to where she is today, her current experiences, and what she is looking forward to in the field of education.

Episode 14 features Caleb Will, the Dean of Students at Palestine. He discusses the benefits of the Rural Education setting, his journey to becoming an educator, and what it has meant for him to step into leadership roles with an eagerness to learn. Click to listen!

Episode 13 features Erin Hoffman, a Kindergarten teacher at Brownstown Elementary School. Erin shares her passion and purpose behind being a teacher. She also shares the importance of maintaining a work-life balance and some classroom management tips! Don't miss this episode!

Episode 12 features Angie Gentry, the Arcola Elementary School Principal. Listen to learn why Angie started the Elementary Principal Network and how she started her career in education!

Episode 11 of the podcast features Annette McClintock. Annette is an Instructional Coach for the Regional Office of Education. She shares her excitement and joy for working with and alongside teachers. She also shares about various services offered by ROEs including how to become a substitute teacher!

Episode 10 features Randy Harpster. Randy Harpster has given over 30 years to education and coaching. Randy has had tremendous success coaching basketball, golf, and baseball. In 2017, he was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association. This conversation gives listeners insight into the perspective of a PE teacher, Coach, and Drivers Ed. Instructor, and will leave you with a deeper respect and appreciation for their role within schools. As he approaches retirement, listen in as he reflects back on some of his favorite memories.