Public School Podcast

Public School Podcast

By Amy RoseSociety & CultureEducationKids & FamilyEducation for Kids
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Public School Podcast episodes

  • 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.

    36 min
  • 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.

    43 min
  • 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.

    31 min
  • 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.

    25 min
  • 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.

    27 min
  • Nursing Our Schools to Health
    In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Sateera Thompsen, Nurse Manager for Rapid City Area Schools. With over 40 years of nursing experience and more than 30 years dedicated to school health across multiple states, Sateera brings unmatched insight into the evolving role of nurses in education. From launching district-wide safety initiatives like AEDs and LifeVacs, to sharing powerful stories of student care and support, she reminds us how vital school nurses are in shaping safe and supportive environments for every child. If you’ve ever wondered what truly goes on behind the nurse’s office door, this conversation will leave you with a new level of respect and appreciation.

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

    31 min
  • Beyond the Award: Get to Know Rapid City Area Schools’ Teacher of the Year, Ross Hunter

     In this episode of The Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with this year’s Rapid City Teacher of the Year, Ross Hunter, a passionate eighth-grade science teacher at Southwest Middle School. From a childhood shaped by Catholic school values to a winding path that eventually led him into education, Ross shares the honest, inspiring story of how he found his true calling in the classroom.

    He opens up about the realities of burnout, the importance of relationships with students and families, and why humor and curiosity are key ingredients in his teaching style. You'll also hear about the moment he was surprised with the Teacher of the Year award and what he hopes his students remember most about their time in his class.

    Whether you're an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, this conversation is a reminder that the heart of public education is filled with purpose, passion, and possibility.

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

    30 min
  • Like a Good Neighbor, Matt McCormick is There

    In this episode, we dive into the powerful impact that school communities have beyond just academics. From a heartfelt story about students being relocated due to construction, to the emotional and social connections that happen when kids get to spend time together outside the classroom. We explore the importance of these moments for students’ well-being and how it goes far beyond worksheets and computer work.

    We also highlight the incredible achievement of a local school earning the prestigious Lighthouse School certification from the Stephen Covey Foundation. This recognition celebrates the dedication of both teachers and students in developing leadership skills and lifelong habits for success.

    Hear inspiring stories from the Evening of Excellence, where students honor teachers who made a lasting impact on their lives — from coaches who kept them on track to teachers who stayed in touch years later. We talk about how these connections validate the hard work educators put in every day.

    Finally, we discuss exciting ideas for the future of school sports facilities and what it means to be part of the school foundation board, encouraging listeners to get involved and make a difference.

    Join us for a heartfelt conversation about the power of education, community, and leadership.

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

    28 min
  • Fuel Up for Summer Fun: The Summer Feeding Program is Helping Fuel the Community Through Free Meals for All Ages!
    On this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Nicole Schlabach from the Black Hills Area Community Foundation to talk about one of the most impactful programs of the summer, the Summer Feeding Program. Nicole explains how this collaborative effort brings free, nutritious meals to children, parents, and grandparents across Rapid City and Box Elder. From reducing food insecurity to building community at local parks and schools, this program serves more than just food. It serves connection, dignity, and hope. Tune in to hear how local nonprofits and school staff make it all possible and how you can help keep bellies full and hearts happy this summer.

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

    25 min
  • Booked for Summer: How the Rapid City Public Library Is Helping to Slow the Summer Slide

    In this colorful episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi welcome Aly Quinn, events coordinator at the Rapid City Public Library, for a lively conversation about the magic of summer reading. Ally shares how the library partners with the school district and the community to keep kids engaged and minds growing all summer long. From prize-filled reading challenges and VR gaming to 3D printing and surprise visits from raptors, the summer line-up is packed with fun for all ages.

    Whether you're a parent looking for ways to fight the summer slide or a book-lover hunting for your next true crime binge, this episode is your backstage pass to everything the library has to offer including the chance to win a community-wide pizza party. Plus, stick around for favorite school cafeteria foods, beloved childhood books, and one librarian’s confession about playing Xena: Warrior Princess at recess.

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

    33 min

About Public School Podcast

From the publisher's feed

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…

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