The Content Generation

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we’re joined by Terry Julian, technology facilitator at Hastings Public Schools. Throughout her 14 years with the district, Terry has worn many hats, managing everything from training and professional development to school public relations and social media. With a focus on elevating district storytelling, she recently collaborated with administrators to establish stipend positions for digital content creators at each of the district's eight schools.

Now in its first year, Terry shares how this passionate team is moving the needle forward, working alongside student content creators in digital media, yearbook, and journalism classes. They’re also finding creative ways to encourage staff to share about the great things happening in their classrooms—like social media bingo boards and other fun incentives that help creators think outside the box.

Tune in to hear Terry’s insights on creating a culture of pride and involvement, her dedication to Hastings Public Schools, and how her recent involvement with the Nebraska School PR Association has been helping her continue to learn and grow in the field.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we’re joined by Patrick Cogan, a senior at Pinkerton Academy and a standout student content creator. Patrick started as a sports videographer his freshman year, and since then his passion for video and content creation has grown. Now the school's primary content creator, Patrick has expanded his skill set, and taken on independent opportunities, working professionally with the NH Sports Page and The United Football League as the youngest team member. 

As a student content creator, Patrick has actively collaborated with school administrators to shape the school’s social media approach. He believes combining the student perspective with administrative goals has led to authentic, engaging content, ultimately boosting the school’s online presence. 

Crediting his time at Pinkerton for preparing him for professional work, Patrick has built an impressive freelance portfolio encompassing professional sports projects, conferences, and wedding content. As graduation approaches, his future is bright, with options ranging from college to exciting professional opportunities.

Tune in to hear Patrick’s insights on student content creation, authentic storytelling, and how his hands-on experiences as a student have prepared him for success beyond the classroom.

In this episode of the Content Generation Podcast, we’re joined by Christopher Villarreal, EdD, Director of Communications at Papillion La Vista Community Schools in Omaha, Nebraska. With 15 years of experience in public education, Chris shares his unique path from marketing and graphic design to teaching, and ultimately, school public relations—all driven by his passion for serving students. Since joining the Papillion La Vista team in January, Chris has quickly become a leader in Nebraska school PR, actively engaging with NebSPRA and organizing collaborative efforts with other districts to strategize around school social media.

Chris highlights the power of collaborative leadership, recounting a recent strategizing session he hosted, where local districts came together to exchange ideas on social media strategy and leveraging the Class Intercom platform. He reflects on how veteran Class Intercom users sparked meaningful conversations that led to innovative strategies and stronger connections. Chris also emphasizes the importance of staying humble and having the courage to learn from others, a philosophy inspired and supported by his superintendent, Dr. Andy Rickli, who champions interconnectedness and collaboration across the district and state.

Tune in to hear Chris’s insights on how humility and collaboration not only enhance individual skill sets but also uplift the entire school PR community.

In the season four premiere of the Content Generation Podcast, we’re joined by Heidi Vega, APR, the newly installed President of NSPRA (the National School Public Relations Association). With a unique start to her school PR career, Heidi shares her journey from serving in the Air Force to interning with her local school district’s communications department, and now leading 200+ school districts across Arizona and school PR professionals nationwide. 

In this episode, Heidi discusses how her service background has shaped her approach to school PR and her commitment to authentic leadership. She reflects on her experience as the first Latina Director of Communications in a large Arizona district, and on the impact she will make as the first Latina President in NSPRA’s 90-year history.

Drawing from her lived experiences, Heidi highlights the importance of genuine diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the power of embracing your story as both an individual and an organization. Tune in to hear Heidi’s insights on leadership, representation, and the future of school PR, as she challenges content creators to establish deeper connections with their audiences through authenticity.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Trent Allen, APR, current National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) president and Chief of Staff at San Juan USD in Northern California. With a rich background in school public relations, Trent shares his journey within the industry, growing from a one-man show to leading a large and dynamic communications team in one of California's largest school districts.

In this episode, Trent discusses the evolving role of school PR professionals, the explosive growth of the profession, and the critical importance of effective communication in education. He highlights the crucial support and networking opportunities provided by NSPRA, which now boasts over 2,800 members.

Discover how Trent and his team at NSPRA are advocating for industry growth through a commitment to inclusivity and professional development. Hear about the exciting plans for the upcoming NSPRA National Seminar, where education leaders from around the country are invited to learn, engage, and build relationships with like-minded professionals in school communications.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jason McGehee, Assistant Club Director at Stars Basketball Club in Franklin, TN, located just outside of Nashville. Since its inception in 2014, Stars has seen annual, exponential growth and is now established as the region's top basketball club, impacting over 5,000 young athletes annually.

In this episode, Jason pulls back the curtain on how Stars leverages the power of storytelling to build its renowned brand reputation. Hear firsthand about the club's exceptional coaches fostering transformative mentor relationships with players - which are brought to life through Stars' engaging social media presence.

As an expert merging his passion for athletics with education and leadership, Jason dives into Stars' "MORE THAN” philosophy. Sharing how the club cultivates an unparalleled environment centered on character development, teamwork, and community - instilling invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the court.

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Marialice Curran, founder and executive director of the Digital Citizenship Institute. With three decades of experience in education as a teacher, administrator, and professor, Marialice shares insights on digital citizenship, and its impact on how school communities engage online. 

Marialice talks about how a third-grade classroom sparked a pursuit to transform the narrative around technology and social media. What started as a three-credit higher education course on digital citizenship, evolved into tailored programs that inspire local, global, and digital communities to use technology for good.

You’ll also learn how the Digital Citizenship Institute is advancing conversations around artificial intelligence in schools with Mundo, an AI classroom assistant that offers a safe space for students to learn and explore AI. Marialice shares how embracing the positives of technology can create a ripple effect of good.

Join us as we welcome Sydney Jensen, returning guest and 2019 Nebraska Teacher of The Year. Sydney is an esteemed educator from Lincoln High School (located in the heart of the state’s capital city). She first appeared on The Content Generation Podcast in December 2019. Now, after a decade of teaching, Sydney not only imparts her wisdom on ninth-grade English students but also manages the school’s social media presence.

At first, Sydney was hesitant when Principal, Mark Larson, suggested she take on this responsibility, but after seeing the pages could use some extra care, she made a video at the eighth-grade open house that went viral. From highlighting new clubs to capturing quirky moments like alien hugs in the cafeteria, Sydney's content has resonated deeply with Lincoln High's community, propelling it to become the most followed high school in the district.

Drawing from the vibrant experiences of one of the state's largest and most diverse high schools, Sydney shares her plans for growth and the meaningful impact social media has had on both the school and its community. It’s a tale of authenticity, connection, and the influence of engaging stories.

Join us for a conversation with Chad Stevens, Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at ParentSquare, the leading provider of innovative family and community engagement solutions for K-12 education. With a rich 28-year background that spans both public and private sectors in education and technology, Stevens shares his insights into the interplay between teaching and tech. 

This conversation explores the evolving world of digital education, shining a light on the crucial role of effective school public relations, the art of genuine storytelling, and the strategic use of technology to enhance the educational journey for students and families alike.  

You’ll also learn how ParentSquare is leading a communication revolution, directly impacting 17 million families nationwide. Stevens opens up about the company’s latest strategic partnerships and acquisitions, highlighting how these developments are reinforcing the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and positive impact. 

This episode of the Content Generation Podcast features  Kyleigh Kumm, a computer science and technology integration teacher at Harlan Community High School in Harlan, Iowa. In response to the need to get social media channels running for the district and buildings, Kumm proposed recruiting student content creators to help. 

Now, these talented and experienced content creators are chasing after a new goal: Kumm is developing an authentic learning class aimed at building student resumes and portfolios. After a successful rollout of the first iteration of the class, local businesses are getting involved, creating a unique opportunity for student content creators to gain real world experience not only with school social media content, but with content for actual local businesses. Her innovative, hands-on approach to working with students to learn, explore, and apply a range of skills has even led to the first ever live student social media contest at the Nebraska Education Technology Association spring conference. 

Catch this episode for especially innovative insights on student involvement, championing student voice, real world learning, authentic assessment in practice, and more.