TBird Talk

Superintendent Don Potter and Assistant Superintendent Tony Holguin kick off the 2026–2027 school year with updates on summer facility projects, expanded full-day pre-K, new cell phone requirements and enrollment growth. They also share what they’re seeing across the district and look ahead to Homecoming on October 2.

In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter and Sara Potter are joined by Pre-K teacher Rebecca Fitch and Kindergarten teacher Devin Willhite to explore the transition to full-day Pre-K at Circle Public Schools. They discuss the reasons behind the shift, how expanded access supports more families, and the impact early learning has on Kindergarten readiness. The conversation highlights what families can expect from Pre-K and Kindergarten orientation, explains tuition and qualification for free programs, and offers simple ways parents can help their child feel confident starting school.

In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter and Director of Community Relations and Development Sara Potter as they talk with Circle High School Principal Matt Carroll about nonresident enrollment. From application timelines to building connections, this episode highlights how Circle supports families and helps every student find their place to thrive.

In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Circle Oil Hill Elementary Principal Sarah Coons shares how Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) shape collaboration across the district. She explains what PLCs are, how they guide teacher teamwork, and how data from assessments drives instruction. The conversation highlights PLCs as a continuous cycle of improvement, the role of essential learnings, and the district’s focus on supporting teachers and students through shared goals and collaboration.

This summer we spent some time catching up with Kansas Assistant Principal of the Year and incoming CMS principal, Mr. Lechien. Listen to get to know Mr. Lechien a little better and hear about his journey in education, his vision for Circle Middle School, and the goals he has for students and staff as they head into a new school year.

In this episode of TBird Talk, hear from teachers and our director of learning & intervention who just wrapped up their first year at Circle. They share what it was like to join the district, how they built connections with students and staff, and what they wish they’d known on day one. Their insights offer encouragement and practical tips for incoming new Circle teachers—whether you’re brand new to the profession or bringing experience from elsewhere.

In this episode of Tbird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter sits down with Circle High School students Carly, Chandler, Nick, and Eriden to dive into the heart of the band and choir programs at CHS.

From funny freshman-year memories to powerful performances that bring the community together, these students share how music has shaped their high school experience—and why the programs feel more like family than extracurriculars.

Hear about upcoming events like the Night of Jazz (May 2, 6 PM—taco bar dinner and live music!) and the Fine Arts Variety Show (May 6), plus how the community can support an exciting upcoming choir trip to San Antonio.

In this episode, CHS seniors Parker Ebberts and Riley Bump join us to share their experiences in the Wesley Healthcare High School Observation Program, offered through CHS Work-Based Learning. They discuss the valuable insights they gained into the healthcare field and how the program helped shape their future career goals. The CHS Work-Based Learning program opens doors for students to explore real-world careers, gain hands-on experience, and build professional connections, preparing them for success beyond high school.

Snow days—love them or hate them, have you ever wondered how the decision to cancel school is made? Plus, are you sure you're signed up to get the alert if we do cancel? Tune in to find out!

In our welcome back episode, Superintendent Don Potter and Director of Community Relations and Development, Sara Potter, welcome our Thunderbird community back to school! They highlight an exciting start to the year with initiatives such as Protect Young Eyes, the College and Career Ready Fair, the Dick Nibarger Circle Foundation Golf Tournament and emphasize the importance of regular school attendance.

Episode Resources:

• Register to participate in the College & Career Ready Career Fair
• Dick Nibarger Circle Foundation Golf Tournament Information
• Attendance Matters: Family Resources