Today’s episode of The One takes us deep into the rhythm of resilience, vision, and heart. I had the great privilege of sitting down with Orbert Davis — jazz trumpeter, composer, arranger, educator, and proud alumnus of Momence Schools. But if you’re expecting a conversation filled only with name drops, accolades, and performance credentials, let me prepare you for something far more expansive.
Orbert’s journey from a shy first grader to an internationally respected artist and educator is more than a story of musical mastery — it’s a testament to the quiet power of human connection. A mouthpiece before he had a trumpet. A car ride every Saturday for four years with a mentor who asked for nothing but legacy in return. A curriculum built from the bridge between music and language, helping kids not only learn to read and count but to believe in who they are and what they can become.

And through it all — whether performing in Havana, lifting students in Chicago, or composing alongside musicians from around the world — Orbert has never strayed from his roots. This conversation is a tribute to the community that shaped him, the people who believed in him, and the enduring belief that music and love are tools not just for expression but for transformation.

You're going to love this one.

From graduating college at the height of a global pandemic to becoming an educator, a soccer coach, and an exhibiting artist, Tomlyn Brza has carved out a path that blends creativity, leadership, and a deep commitment to students. Whether she’s guiding young artists through self-expression, leading athletes on the field, or showcasing her own work in galleries, she embodies the power of lifelong learning and exploration.

Today, we’ll dive into her unique teaching philosophy, her journey from student to teacher, and how the arts and athletics have shaped the way she connects with young people. So, whether you’re a teacher, a coach, an artist, or just someone who loves a great story, you’re in for a fantastic conversation.

Today, we’re taking a look behind the scenes at one of the most essential roles in keeping Momence Schools running smoothly. Often, when we think about the people who make a school function, we think about teachers, coaches, principals, and counselors. But there’s an entire team working behind the scenes to ensure that bills get paid, budgets are balanced, and the financial foundation of the district stays strong. Today, I’m sitting down with Helen Giba, Momence High School’s longtime Assistant Bookkeeper who serves as the Accounts Payable Clerk, someone who has dedicated decades to the district—not just as an employee, but as a member of a family that has walked these hallways for generations. Helen's story is one of dedication, community, and the quiet yet powerful impact of financial stewardship in public education. We talk about what brought her to this work, how she’s seen the district evolve over the years, and the special kind of connection that comes with seeing multiple generations of students come through Momence Schools—including some of her own children. She even shares a few fun behind-the-scenes stories about the realities of school finance—including what happens when receipts don’t quite meet the audit requirements. It’s a great conversation with a great person, and I’m excited for you to hear it.

Welcome to The One, Momence Schools' podcast where we dive into the remarkable stories shaping our students, educators, and the community. I’m Craig Williams, publisher of The One magazine, and today’s episode takes us inside the classroom to meet an exceptional trio of fifth-grade teachers at Momence Junior High School. Together, Jonna, Kelly, and Ralph are redefining what teamwork means in education, each specializing in a core subject: Jonna leads Language Arts, Kelly handles Math, and Ralph champions Science and Social Studies.

In this episode, we’ll explore how this innovative team approach is not only helping students build essential skills but also fostering a sense of connection and collaboration among educators. You’ll hear their inspiring journeys into teaching, how their diverse paths led them to Momence, and why they’ve embraced this unique teaching model. We’ll unpack their day-to-day strategies, from cross-curricular lesson plans to fostering independence and confidence in their fifth graders.

More than just a discussion about teaching methods, this episode highlights the human side of education—what it takes to adapt, collaborate, and innovate in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or someone curious about the power of teamwork in shaping young minds, this episode offers insights that will leave you inspired.

So let’s jump in and meet Jonna, Kelly, and Ralph—the fifth-grade teaching team making waves at Momence Junior High School.

I’m excited to introduce you to Madison Meyer, the Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor here at Momence Schools. Madison’s passion for agriculture education goes beyond the farm. She’s committed to fostering leadership, inclusion, and opportunity for every student, whether they come from an agricultural background or not. In today’s conversation, we’ll dive into the incredible work she’s doing with her students, the innovative programs she’s brought to life, and how FFA helps shape confident, well-rounded young people ready to take on the world.

Today I am excited to introduce you to Jodi Tobias, an interventionist with Momence Schools. Jodi’s story is one of deep empathy, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child has the support they need to thrive. In her role, Jodi works tirelessly to help students navigate academic and personal challenges, from credit recovery to advanced coursework, all with the goal of helping them graduate and succeed. Her dedication shines through in her work, and I can’t wait for you to hear her insights on what it means to be an interventionist and the powerful difference she’s making in students' lives every single day.

Today, we have the privilege of sitting down with Joey Baud, a man whose journey from the baseball diamond to the kindergarten classroom has redefined what it means to be a teacher in Momence. Joey is not just any educator—he's a man who embodies the values of collaboration, authenticity, and heart, bringing a unique perspective to everything he does. In a world where kindergarten teachers are often seen through a singular lens, Joey shatters the mold, proving that passion for education knows no gender. His story is one of intentional choices, of coming back home to support his family, and of dedicating his life to shaping young minds. As we explore his experiences—from his days at Parkland College to his return to Momence and his dual role as a coach and a teacher—you’ll see how Joey seamlessly integrates his love for baseball with his commitment to early childhood education.

I'm honored to bring you a conversation with a truly inspiring figure in the field of education. Dr. Lynette Thrasher, the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for the Momence School District, is a beacon of innovation and dedication. Her journey into education is anything but conventional. From a career in politics to an unexpected calling as a teacher, Dr. Thrasher has continuously demonstrated an ability to see opportunity and to bring it into focus for the benefit of all. In our discussion today, we'll explore Dr. Thrasher's unique path, her impactful work in curriculum, and her relentless pursuit of educational opportunities for every student. We'll dive into the importance of relationships in education, the vital role of social-emotional learning, and the innovative strategies she employs to ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed. Dr. Thrasher's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Over the past, nearly two years, I have had a unique line of sight into the lives of dozens of Momence students, their teachers, administrators, coaches, and volunteers. I’ve spoken to young readers, athletes, scientists, and kids who’ve already laid tracks to their future through enrollment in dual credit coursework, preparation for college, and time spent gaining certifications of all kinds in the skilled trades. And it is this latter group — those who have actively invested in their own future through the acquisition of employable skills — that brings me to the mic today. Because today, I have the opportunity to pull back the curtain on how they’re doing it, in my discussion with Matt Kelley, the Executive Director of the Kankakee Area Career Center, a rather magical place that is at the center of future building for so many of those students I’ve had the honor of interviewing, who’ve been featured in our magazine, The One. Matt Kelley is an extraordinary educator and education leader who finds himself, as I think you’ll see, in the exact spot where he most belongs. He is changing lives through his special brand of leadership, absolutely. And his life has uniquely prepared him for the role he now plays. But I would argue that it is his passion for meeting kids where they are, helping them punch-through their challenges and occasional doubts, and providing them with an amazing toolbox of opportunities that makes him the guy… in the right place… at the right time, and for all the right reasons.

I have a profound appreciation for the work of educators. I’ve met enough of them to know that they are not perfect human beings but, as a group, they make an incredible contribution to the quality of our communities and to life itself. Through the work they do, obstacles are overcome, paths are paved, and doors are opened.  And when I have the opportunity to interview alumni from various schools — including Momence — I find that some of the most deeply treasured encounters of their lives, the ones that had lifelong impact, invariably turn out to be the teachers, coaches, and specialists who worked with them as young people. A typical student will spend about 180 days per year with a grade-level teacher. Outside of a parent or guardian, is there any other person who has this much contact time with a child? Make no mistake, teachers are foundational to the lives we build and to the impact we will have throughout our lives. Today I have the opportunity to speak with a teacher doing remarkable things with her 180 days each year who took a deliberate detour into education after earning her first bachelor’s degree in English. Megan Barnett teaches a wide range of courses in English, Creative Writing, and Meditation. Hers is a fascinating story and one that inspires on multiple levels.