Public School Podcast

By Amy Rose

Welcome to The Public School Podcast, where real stories, real people, and real passion for

education come together. Hosted by Sara Hornick, Executive Director of the Public School

Foun

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FAQs about Public School Podcast:

How many episodes does Public School Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 21 episodes available.

Public School Podcast episodes:

September 10, 2025 From Production to Panelist
In this special episode of The Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer turn the tables and interview their own producer, Amy Rose. From her beginnings in Nashville radio to her role shaping every episode of this show, Amy shares her journey, the behind-the-scenes process of editing, and the unexpected lessons she’s learned about public education along the way.
With stories of bloopers, mouth noises, and moments that still inspire her during the editing process, Amy gives listeners a candid look at what it takes to make the podcast sound polished while keeping it authentic. She also reflects on the passion she’s seen from teachers, principals, and staff, and how producing the show has deepened her appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to students.
Lively, heartfelt, and sprinkled with laughter, this episode highlights the unsung hero of the podcast team and reminds us why storytelling matters in building trust and connection between schools and the community
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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28min
September 03, 2025 Students Voice, Foundations Choice
In this special episode of The Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer turn the tables and interview their own producer, Amy Rose. From her beginnings in Nashville radio to her role shaping every episode of this show, Amy shares her journey, the behind-the-scenes process of editing, and the unexpected lessons she’s learned about public education along the way.
With stories of bloopers, mouth noises, and moments that still inspire her during the editing process, Amy gives listeners a candid look at what it takes to make the podcast sound polished while keeping it authentic. She also reflects on the passion she’s seen from teachers, principals, and staff, and how producing the show has deepened her appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to students.
Lively, heartfelt, and sprinkled with laughter, this episode highlights the unsung hero of the podcast team and reminds us why storytelling matters in building trust and connection between schools and the community
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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33min
August 27, 2025 Upholding the Law, Uplifting Our Students
In this episode of The Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer welcome Lara Roetzel, Pennington County State’s Attorney and the new president of the Rapid City Public School Foundation Board. Lara shares how her lifelong calling to public service connects with her passion for education, the powerful role schools play in crime prevention, and the importance of keeping students supported and engaged. From mentoring future lawyers to championing foundation grants and events like the Evening of Excellence, she highlights the impact strong public schools have on an entire community. With honesty, humor, and a touch of nostalgia, Lara also reflects on her favorite teachers, childhood memories, and why she believes public education is everyone’s responsibility.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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24min
August 20, 2025 Paging the Superintendent
In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with the new superintendent of Rapid City Area Schools, Dr. Jami Jo Thompson. Fresh from Nebraska and just weeks into her new role, Dr. Thompson shares her journey from teaching middle school special education to leading entire districts, her vision for making Rapid City the “school of choice,” and her commitment to building trust through collaboration, transparency, and community partnerships. From tackling barriers to student success to recalling the fifth-grade teacher who changed her life, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and a genuine passion for public education.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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24min
August 13, 2025 All My Best Friends Are Five
In Episode 16, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Leigh Shaw, a kindergarten teacher at Pinedale Elementary who brings heart, humor, and a deep understanding of child behavior into her classroom every day. From her own mischievous days as a student to being named Teacher of the Year at the very school she once attended, Leigh shares her full circle journey in education. She opens up about what it’s really like to teach five-year-olds, the power of guided play, why reading with kids matters so much, and how her school is launching a new Behavior Academy. It’s a lively, moving, and inspiring look at how one teacher meets every student where they are and helps them grow into exactly who they’re meant to be.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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31min
August 06, 2025 From the Principals Desk to the Community
In this special episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Sarah Gross, the new principal at Knollwood Elementary and the unofficial historian of Rapid City Area Schools. Sarah shares her passion for discovering and preserving the stories behind the district's oldest buildings and most defining moments. From fires that reshaped campuses to the evolution of neighborhood schools, she has spent years uncovering the rich history that lives within the walls of our schools. Sarah also talks about her journey as an educator and how her deep love for community and connection will shape her leadership in her new role. This episode is filled with insight, reflection, and a strong message about why public schools matter now more than ever.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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36min
August 06, 2025 Stay Weird, Lead Strong
In this uplifting and genuine conversation, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with North Middle School Assistant Principal Jayna Morrill. From singing in the halls to driving a Zamboni, Jayna shares how she leads with humor, heart, and authenticity. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of working in education, the importance of building relationships, and why being present matters more than perfection. With stories of champion builders, karaoke machines, and cinnamon rolls, this episode captures what makes middle school unforgettable and why Jayna says, “Stay weird, stay yourself.”
This one is packed with laughter, real talk, and a whole lot of love for public education. Tune in and meet the woman who proves every day that being yourself is your greatest strength.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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43min
July 23, 2025 The Rapid City Educational Historian and Public School Advocate
In this episode, Sara and Bobbi talk with Beth Keeney, principal at Robbinsdale Elementary and a passionate advocate for building community in public schools. With 25 years in education and nearly a decade as a principal, Beth shares how her journey shaped her approach to leadership, belonging, and student connection. From early morning greetings to innovative “community days” that bring different grade levels together, Beth is creating a culture where every student feels seen and supported. She also reflects on the history of Robbinsdale, the power of small celebrations, and why trusting families and listening to staff make all the difference. This episode offers an honest, uplifting look at what it means to lead with heart in today’s schools.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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31min
July 16, 2025 Teammates: The Match
In this episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Micah Bransford, the Teammates Program Coordinator for Rapid City Area Schools. Micah shares how this school-based mentorship program pairs students with trusted adult mentors, creating consistent, one-on-one connections that can last from third grade through graduation. With nearly 90 active matches and a growing presence across the district, Teammates is helping students feel seen, supported, and excited to show up. Micah also discusses how mentorship is improving attendance, reducing behavior referrals, and even helping students apply for jobs and college. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or community member, this episode is a meaningful reminder that just 30 minutes a week can change a student’s life.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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25min
July 09, 2025 Nourish to Flourish
In this episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Krista Leischner, Student Nutrition Manager for Rapid City Area Schools, who shares what it takes to feed thousands of students every day. With over eight years in the district and a background in dietetics, Krista breaks down the logistics, challenges, and heart behind the meals served in local schools. From early morning prep and satellite kitchens to expanding student choices and dreaming of a centralized facility, she gives listeners a real look at how her team makes it all happen. Whether it’s taco day or salad bar upgrades, Krista reminds us that every tray served is part of something bigger: fueling students so they can learn, grow, and thrive.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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27min

FAQs about Public School Podcast:

How many episodes does Public School Podcast have?

The podcast currently has 21 episodes available.