Real Talk with Riggin

Low-income minority students continue to face persistent achievement gaps, and Policy Analyst at the Illinois Policy Institute Hannah Schmid says those disparities are tied less to students’ abilities and more to systemic barriers that limit opportunity. Schmid points to chronic underperformance in many schools, inadequate access to experienced teachers, and policies that restrict families from choosing better-performing options as key factors holding students back. She argues that improving transparency, expanding educational choice, and redirecting resources toward proven classroom strategies can help close the gap and ensure that every student—regardless of income or background—has a fair chance to succeed.

The Merry Main Street Mile returns this season, bringing festive fun and family-friendly fitness to downtown Jackson with the help of Jackson Parks and Recreation Director Jason Lipe. Lipe says the one-mile holiday run is designed for all ages and abilities, offering a cheerful kickstart to the city’s annual Christmas festivities as participants make their way down a decorated Main Street glowing with lights, music, and community spirit. It’s a simple, energetic way to celebrate the season, get people moving, and highlight the charm of Jackson’s historic downtown during the holidays.

Agriculture Education on the Move is bringing hands-on learning to classrooms across the region, and Southeast Region Coordinator Rick Aufdenberg says the program is opening students’ eyes to where their food, fiber, and fuel really come from. Aufdenberg explains that through interactive lessons, demonstrations, and real-world ag connections, kids gain a deeper understanding of Missouri’s number one industry while also discovering potential career paths in agriculture. He says educators appreciate the ready-to-use resources, and students walk away excited, informed, and more connected to the farms and farmers who help feed the world.

Concordia Lutheran Church is bringing Old World charm to the season with its Authentic German Christmas Market, and spokesperson Debi Porter says the community can expect a festive celebration filled with traditional holiday sights, sounds, and flavors. Visitors can stroll through vendor booths offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and authentic German-inspired foods while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities. Porter notes that the event is designed to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects both German heritage and the spirit of Christmas, making it a perfect way for families to kick off the holiday season together.

Attorney and Republican strategist Peter Lumaj joined us to discuss a troubling new survey showing that 1 in 3 young Americans believe political violence can be justified, a statistic he says reflects deep cultural, institutional, and political fractures in the country. Lumaj emphasized that this shift in attitudes is a warning sign that civic norms are eroding, fueled by polarization, misinformation, and a lack of confidence in democratic processes. He urged leaders, educators, and communities to recommit to teaching constitutional principles, civil debate, and respect for differing viewpoints, stressing that America’s stability depends on restoring a shared belief that change must always be pursued through peaceful and lawful means.

Grandparents for Vaccines is gaining momentum in Southeast Missouri, and Community Outreach Coordinator and Public Information Officer at the S7 Health Department, Shawnna Rhine, says the initiative is all about empowering older adults to help protect their families. Rhine explains that grandparents often play a pivotal role in family health decisions, and this campaign encourages them to stay informed, share accurate vaccine information, and lead by example. Through outreach events, educational materials, and community conversations, the program aims to strengthen trust, improve vaccination rates, and support healthier households across the region.

The Jackson Optimist Club Christmas Tree Lot is in full swing once again, offering the community a festive place to find the perfect holiday tree while supporting youth programs across the region. President Kevin Schaper says the annual lot is one of the club’s biggest traditions, bringing volunteers together to greet families, share holiday cheer, and raise funds that go directly toward helping local kids. With fresh trees, friendly faces, and a mission rooted in service, the Optimists are celebrating another season of giving back.

The SALT Christmas Party brought festive cheer and community connection as Cape PD Public Information Officer Patrolman Bobby Newton joins seniors for an afternoon of holiday celebration. Newton shared safety tips for the season, visited with attendees, and helped spread goodwill as part of the department’s ongoing commitment to building strong relationships with older residents. The event featured treats, conversation, and plenty of Christmas spirit and prizes making it a warm and memorable gathering for everyone involved.