In this HR-themed episode of Talk 122, Superintendent Dr. Terrell Yarbrough sits down with the people who help keep the Harlem School District running smoothly behind the scenes — the Human Resources team! First, we meet Rachel Freeman, Harlem’s Human Resources Coordinator, who shares her decade-long journey with the district and how she’s helping make HR feel more human. From launching new monthly orientations to supporting staff with benefits and pay questions, Rachel gives insight into how people skills make all the difference in her role — and yes, even a little talk about her love for body combat and boxing!

Then, Dr. Yarbrough welcomes Dana Russell, the new Principal Secretary at Parker Center, and Dr. Shelley Wagner, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. Dana shares how she’s settling into her new role, her family’s deep Harlem roots, and why she treats the Parker team like family. Dr. Wagner closes out the episode by talking about people-first HR, the importance of visibility across the district, and her journey from special education teacher to administrator. Plus, you’ll hear how she recently became a proud “Grand Pet Parent” — and the hilarious story of her first day as an administrator!

Talk 122 is back for its fifth year! In this milestone episode, Superintendent Dr. Terrell Yarbrough kicks off Season 5 by highlighting the incredible musical talent and creativity within Harlem School District. Joined by Harlem High School students Sierra Van Laeke and Gabriel Coletta, Dr. Yarbrough dives into their unforgettable experience performing on stage with the legendary rock band Foreigner. Choir Director Jeremy Toledo also joins to share what it took to make that once-in-a-lifetime moment happen and how the community’s support made it possible.

In the second half, Dr. Yarbrough welcomes back Mary McNamara Bernsten, Executive Director of the Rockford Area Arts Council, to discuss the newly completed Rockford Area Culture Plan and how art continues to shape and strengthen the region. From student performances to city-wide collaboration, this episode celebrates the powerful connection between education, art, and community.

Behind the Lunch Line – How Harlem’s School Meals Come to Life

In this episode of Talk 122, Superintendent Dr. Terrell Yarbrough sits down with Jennifer Wagner, Administrative Assistant to the Director of Food and Nutrition Services, and Jamie Carollo, SNS, Director of Food and Nutrition Services. Together, they give an inside look at how school meal programs are planned and executed at Harlem School District 122.

✅ How do schools decide what’s on the menu?✅ What are the biggest challenges in food service, and how are they tackled?✅ Fun facts about what students love (and don’t love!) in their lunches.

Tune in for a fascinating discussion about the logistics, creativity, and passion behind feeding thousands of students every day!

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In this episode of Talk 122, Dr. Yarbrough sits down with Harlem High School students and teachers to explore the importance of belonging and appreciation in education.

First, students Junior Gallardo and Matt Spartz share their personal experiences with finding their place in the school community. From teachers reaching out to help, to the impact of a supportive counselor, they discuss how feeling noticed and valued can drive success. They also introduce their upcoming podcast and ask Dr. Yarbrough for advice on how students can foster a sense of belonging.

Later, teachers Alaina Mach and Kyra Newnam join the conversation to talk about their work on Harlem High’s Social Justice Committee. They share how creating inclusive spaces and engaging in meaningful conversations help students feel seen and heard. They also highlight the role of Career and Technical Education pathways in helping students discover their passions and build their future.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on connection, support, and the impact of belonging in Harlem School District #122!

In this episode, Dr. Yarbrough meets with the leadership team of Harlem Athletics to discuss the culture of hard work and academics within our sports program.First, Reed Allison, the Athletic Director, shares his experiences transitioning into this role, the challenges of being both a coach and the son of a coach, and how his staff contributes to making his job more manageable.Next, Athletic Secretary LaWanda Cooper talks about her experiences volunteering and eventually taking a position in Harlem. She reflects on her six students who have passed through Harlem Athletics and the significant impact they have had on her life. Then she talks about having an impact on students no matter if they are part of sports or not.

In this engaging episode of Talk 122, a podcast by the Harlem

• Mary McNamara Bernstein, Executive Director of the Rockford Area Arts Council, discusses the transformative power of the arts in education and community engagement.

•Ariana Cook, music teacher at Maple and Parker Center, shares her enthusiasm for connecting young learners to music and how it bridges cultural and linguistic divides.

• Allison Turner, veteran art teacher at Harlem High School, reflects on her 27 years of experience and the incredible impact of visual arts on students.

Join us as we explore how the arts foster creativity, enhance academic success, and inspire students to connect with their communities.

This week's episode of Talk 122 has been years in the making. Dr. Yarbrough sits down with Harlem leaders and discusses the opening of the Harlem 122 Employee Health Clinic!

Guests include Shelly Wagner (Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources),

Communications and Community Relations), and Diana Disch (Harlem's Wellness

In this exciting episode of *Talk 122*, Superintendent Dr. Terrell Yarbrough dives into the growing world of girls' flag football at Harlem High School! Joined by standout players Hari Young (running back) and Madison King (wide receiver), along with quarterback Giada Nowling and Coach Dodson, we hear about the explosive rise in popularity of flag football. The team shares their experiences, from Madison’s game-winning pick-six to Hari’s love for trying something new.

Coach Dodson also sheds light on how Harlem became a leader in flag football, with support from the Chicago Bears and ISHA. With a fun peek into the athletes' favorite teachers and what it’s like on the field, this episode will leave you cheering for Harlem’s flag football future. Don’t miss it!

Welcome to Season 4 of Talk 122, the official podcast of Harlem School District #122! In this special premiere, the tables are turned as Dr. Terrell Yarbrough, Superintendent of Harlem School District, takes the guest seat for an insightful conversation.

Joining him as co-hosts are Assistant Superintendent for Communications and Community Relations, Jason Blume, and Harlem High School senior, Asiah Pierce. Together, they dive into meaningful discussions reflecting on their shared experiences, the evolution of the district, and the importance of diversity in Harlem schools.

Jason Blume leads the first part of the episode, reminiscing with Dr. Yarbrough about their time working together and how the district has grown and transformed over the years. In the second half, Asiah Pierce offers her unique perspective as a student, exploring the impact of diversity initiatives and how they have shaped her high school experience.

This is a heartfelt and thought-provoking episode that you won’t want to miss as we kick off another season of Talk 122!

Join Superintendent Dr. Terrell Yarbrough, Board President Michael Sterling, and Vice President Kurt Thompson in this sizzling summer edition of Talk 122. The trio dives into a fun and fiery hot wings challenge, sampling sauces from mild to the scorching Carolina Reaper, all while discussing important school updates.

In this episode, they reflect on the successful transition of the sixth grade to middle school, the exciting progress of the CTE building, and much-needed renovations at the middle school, including upgraded bathrooms. They also share their enthusiasm for upcoming projects like a new staff clinic and expanded educational programs.

Get ready to laugh as the heat rises and the conversation flows, offering a unique mix of informative updates and spicy entertainment. Don’t miss the fun and insightful discussion, and find out how the school leadership is preparing for an exciting new year. Tune in and get a taste of what’s cooking in the district, both in terms of hot wings and hot topics!

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