On this episode of The Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Jessica Gates, the endlessly cheerful secretary at Rapid Valley Elementary and the district’s reigning Support Person of the Year.

Jessica shares her journey from a 20-year Air Force career to becoming the “gatekeeper” of Rapid Valley. With a blend of humor, heart, and fierce dedication, she opens up about navigating her first civilian job, building relationships with families, welcoming new students, and yes, managing surprise dog and cat drop-ins during school hours.

From organizing Air Force band assemblies to helping families access food assistance, Jessica’s passion shines through every story. Her love for the “little people,” her PTA leadership, and her belief that every child deserves to feel welcomed and cared for make this episode warm, funny, and inspiring.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring and down-to-earth episode of The Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Dennis Morton, Teacher of the Year at Rapid City Alternative Academy or as his students like to call him, The Amazing Disco Wizard.

Once a high school dropout himself, Dennis now teaches the very students who remind him of who he used to be...kids on the edge of giving up. His journey from managing retail stores to leading a classroom is proof that life doesn’t always follow a straight line. He opens up about his path to becoming an educator, the powerful Discovery Program that’s changing lives, and how Dungeons & Dragons helps his students find connection, confidence, and belonging.

It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and packed with lessons about resilience, relationships, and the magic of second chances.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartwarming episode of The Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer welcome Michelle Eckles, Central High School’s Support Person of the Year. With 25 years of dedication as a paraprofessional, Michelle proves that kindness, laughter, and authenticity go a long way in shaping young lives.

From helping high school freshmen find their footing to turning simple classroom moments into lifelong memories, Michelle’s “grandma energy” and gentle humor have made her a student favorite. She shares how her life experiences as a widow, mother, and proud grandma have shaped her purpose: to meet every student where they are and help them see their own potential.

It’s a joyful, genuine, and deeply inspiring conversation about the power of showing up, staying kind, and believing that everyone has a gift worth nurturing.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School Activities Director Jordan Bauer, whose energy for student life might just outshine the Friday-night lights. From heartfelt stories about students finding their place through sports to a viral homecoming halftime performance that left him with sore hamstrings and a roaring crowd, Jordan reminds us that school spirit is about so much more than games. It’s about connection.

He opens up about balancing academics and athletics, celebrating every student’s success (and failure), and why showing up for kids, whether in the bleachers, the classroom, or the choir room, can change a life. It’s an inspiring, laugh-out-loud conversation that proves being a “Cobbler” isn’t just a mascot, it’s a mindset.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with a true local legend, Pinedale Elementary’s beloved custodian, Shane Cox. Known for his giant leaf piles and even bigger heart, Shane shares how a simple rake and a smile can make school feel like home. From early morning snow shoveling to surprise leaf-jumping parties, his care for students and staff goes far beyond cleaning. He’s building a community, one high five at a time.

Laugh along as Sara and Bobbi uncover Shane’s funniest “you’ll see it” story, his favorite cafeteria meal (spoiler: it’s square pizza), and his mission to make every child excited to come to school. It’s a genuine, feel-good episode that celebrates the everyday heroes who keep our schools shining inside and out.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Michael Birkeland, a true product of Rapid City Area Schools whose journey has come full circle. From student to teacher, board member, and now digital instructional designer, Michael’s story is proof that education isn’t just about books and grades, it’s about people, purpose, and community.

He opens up about what it means to “lead with curiosity,” why he believes in the power of public education, and how even the smallest moments in the classroom can have life-changing impact. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, student, or community member, this conversation will make you see your local schools in a whole new light.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Dr. Justin Conroy, Title I Principal for Rapid City Area Schools, to shine a light on the often-overlooked work happening behind the scenes to support at-risk and transitioning students. From students returning from treatment or juvenile programs to those facing housing instability, Dr. Conroy shares how his team provides vital educational and emotional support through programs like Fresh Start and GED prep.

Listeners will hear heartfelt stories of perseverance, learn how collaboration and compassion create second chances, and discover why attendance, family partnership, and “trusted adults” are at the heart of every student’s success. Dr. Conroy’s message is simple but powerful, success is never out of reach.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Kit Veit, Director of Student Success for Rapid City Area Schools. Kit shares her journey from growing up on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation to becoming a teacher, superintendent, and now a leader focused on building positive school culture.

The conversation dives into what student success really means—beyond grades and test scores—and how relationships, mental health, and community partnerships play a critical role. From attendance initiatives to career pathways, Kit highlights the programs designed to support students academically, socially, and emotionally.

Listeners will also hear personal reflections on the teachers who made a difference, the importance of curiosity in learning, and why Kit believes public schools open doors of opportunity for every child.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Public School Podcast, hosts Sara Hornick (Executive Director, Rapid City Public School Foundation) and Bobbi Schaefbauer (Community Relations Manager, Rapid City Area Schools) sit down with Kristen Kiner, Youth Engagement Coordinator for Rapid City Area Schools.

Kristen shares her journey into youth engagement, the importance of amplifying student voices, and how programs like the Student School Board, Youth Task Force, and Take Action theatre group are giving young people the chance to lead, create solutions, and make lasting change in the community. From short films that spark conversations to student-led advocacy for housing insecurity, Kristen highlights the power of authentic youth involvement.

The conversation also touches on the challenges students face after COVID, including social anxiety and communication shifts, and how caring adults can play a transformative role in young people’s lives. As always, Sara and Bobbi wrap up the episode with fun, rapid-fire questions about favorite teachers, recess memories, and why Kristen believes so deeply in public education.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.