The Burton Experience Podcast

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, Superintendent David Shimer sits down with Coach Burnitzki and our Athletic Director Blain Smothermon to talk about the exciting launch of Summit Collegiate High School’s first-ever football program in 2027.

Hear Coach Burnitzki’s vision for building a program that creates new traditions, brings students and the community together, and opens up opportunities throughout Burton School District. This is more than football—it’s the beginning of something special for our Summit family. 

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, Superintendent David Shimer sits down with Rayane DeSouza Silva, CTE Counselor at Summit Collegiate High School. Rayane shares how she helps students across our middle and high schools explore careers, build connections with community partners, and take part in internships, job shadows, workshops, and other real-world learning opportunities. Tune in to hear how these experiences help students discover their path and prepare for their future.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode of The Burton Experience Podcast, we shine a light on Oak Grove Lighthouse School and the dedicated educators, staff, and students who make it a special place to learn and grow. Join us as we explore the school's unique approach to supporting student success, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive. We won't want to miss this inspiration episode.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In our final Burton Experience Podcast: On the Road school site tour episode, we visit SCA Lombardi to hear from IB learners and Librarian Alicia as they share what makes the Lombardi experience so special. From building leadership and global awareness to learning through curiosity and collaboration, students reflect on what it truly means to be an IB learner. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about student voice, growth, and the lasting impact of the Burton Experience at Lombardi.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode of The Burton Experience Podcast: On the Road, we stop at Burton Middle School to hear directly from students about one of the biggest transitions in their school journey—moving from elementary to middle school.

Students open up about the nerves, fears, and unknowns they faced at first, and how those feelings changed once they got involved, made connections, and tried new things. From joining activities to building friendships, they share how stepping outside their comfort zones led to confidence, growth, and unexpected rewards.

While these stories come from BMS, the message is bigger than one campus—growth happens when you’re willing to take that first step.

Tune in to hear real student voices, honest experiences, and what truly makes the Burton Experience come to life.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

We took The Burton Experience Podcast on the road to our dual-language campus, SCA–Mathew, where English and Spanish come together in a vibrant learning community. Joined by our energetic host, TK teacher Señora Pilar Orosco, she sat down with students to talk all about their Burton Experience.

From their day-to-day lives on campus to what inspires and motivates them, these students share honest, thoughtful perspectives that truly capture the heart of Burton. This episode highlights the power of student voice and the unique experiences happening across our dual-language programs.

Download or stream the latest episode today—we can’t wait for you to hear it!

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

The Burton Experience Podcast hits the road for a special Student Takeover episode from William R. Buckley Elementary! 

5th grader Skye takes the lead, sitting down with our Superintendent for an authentic, student-driven conversation. With the freedom to ask anything, Skye dives into topics like campus visits, student choice in learning, and what truly makes the Burton Experience meaningful.

Along the way, she shares her own story—highlighting the impact of voice, choice, and connection in her learning journey.

Tune in to hear the Burton Experience—through Skye’s eyes.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we highlight the powerful role teachers play in preparing students for their future careers. Hear from our middle school CTE wheel teachers, Mrs. Samantha Cook and Mr. Samuel Novinger, as they share how hands-on learning and real-world experiences are helping students build essential industry skills.

From exploring different career pathways to developing confidence and problem-solving abilities, students are gaining valuable insights into what their futures can hold. This episode showcases how early exposure to career-focused learning empowers students to discover their interests and start building a strong foundation for success.

Tune in to learn how our teachers are making learning meaningful, relevant, and future-ready for every student.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode, we sit down with our Band Directors from our middle schools and high school to explore the world behind the music. They share what it takes to run a successful band program, the rewards of teaching, and how being in band helps students grow in confidence, teamwork, and life skills beyond the classroom.

Tune in to hear the passion, dedication, and stories that make the Burton band experience truly unforgettable! #BurtonExperience

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.

In this episode, we explore our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program and challenge common assumptions about what it means to be “gifted.”

Moving beyond traditional achievement measures, we discuss how giftedness often connects to how a GATE student’s brain functions—how they learn, process information, and experience the world. Giftedness is not simply about test scores or performance; it’s about unique ways of thinking, heightened curiosity, creativity, and different ways of interacting with the world.

Join us as we reframe gifted education and celebrate the individuality of every learner.  Download and listen today.

Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, where we explore deep insights alongside our guests. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X at Burton School District.