The Podcast with Friendswood ISD

S4 Ep. 11 – Join us for a special end-of-year episode of Friendswood ISD’s The Podcast! Communication Specialist Sofia Armintor sits down with Superintendent Thad Roher to reflect on our 85th Anniversary school year, celebrate key milestones, and look ahead to what’s in store for next year. From exciting growth in programs like Culinary and Performing Arts, to additional support in many other parts of the District, and the refresh of the district’s Strategic Plan, this episode offers an inside look at how FISD is evolving to meet the needs of students and staff. We also explore the newly adopted “Away for the Day” cell phone policy, the work of the Citizens Advisory Committee on a potential bond, and what families can expect moving forward. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation as we close one chapter and get charged up for the next!

Join us for an exciting episode as we introduce the new Friendswood Families Book Club! With our beloved host Kelsey Golz on maternity leave, District Communication Specialist Sofia Armintor steps in to chat with Westwood Elementary Art Specialist McKenna Giamfortone about this district-wide initiative. Learn how this book club, led by McKenna, Assistant Superintendent Lauren Ambeau, and Superintendent Thad Roher, aims to bring FISD families and staff together through meaningful discussions. We’ll explore why The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt was chosen as the first book, key themes about modern childhood and mental health, and how you can get involved.

Get the latest updates for Friendswood ISD’s spring semester with Superintendent Thad Roher! In this episode, we discuss potential weather closures, updates on the district’s Big 4 priorities, and insights from the Cell Phone Research Group. Learn about the role of the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and the progress of the Strategic Plan refresh. Don’t miss key information to keep you informed and prepared for what’s ahead in FISD!

In this episode of Friendswood ISD’s The Podcast, we spotlight the Friendswood ISD Education Foundation (FEF) with Executive Director Ashley Adair and Board President Shanna Kirkpatrick. From celebrating 25 years of impact to exciting programs like the Legacy Grant and Adopt-A-Grant campaign, discover how FEF continues to support students, teachers, and the community.

BONUS! Listen for the special code word and send to FEF's email to potentially win a prize! 

Bales Intermediate Instructional Coaches Chantell Edmond and Christina Hogue share insights on what instructional coaching looks like in action, from working one-on-one with teachers to implementing strategies that address current classroom challenges. Discover how they tailor their support for new and veteran teachers alike and how their efforts benefit every student.

Westwood Elementary Principal Andi Hull takes us on a journey through time as we explore the recent opening of a 30-year-old time capsule, originally buried by the 1994 Challenge program. Joined by former students, teachers, and the community, we uncover items from the past and reflect on how much has changed—and stayed the same—since then. Andi shares her thoughts on the significance of this unique event, the impact of seeing students past and present connect, and how Westwood is fostering a legacy that today’s students can one day look back on with pride.

In this episode of Friendswood ISD’s #ThePodcast, we sit down with Cline Elementary Principal Julianne McCarty and Assistant Principal Sarah Russell as they share their personal journeys in education and their vision for the school. They discuss key priorities for the year, the importance of fostering a positive school culture and engaging with parents and the community to ensure the well-being of every student. Tune in for insights into decision-making and the inspiring work happening at Cline Elementary, showcasing their commitment to supporting students and staff.

In this episode, PBIS Coordinator Kimberly Davis explains the importance of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and its role as one of the district's "Big 4" initiatives. Kimberly discusses how PBIS fosters positive school environments, clears up common misconceptions, and highlights its impact on student outcomes. She shares success stories from Friendswood ISD, the role of staff and parents in PBIS success, and recent innovations in behavior analysis that are shaping its implementation. This episode offers valuable insights into the district's efforts to improve behavior and school culture.

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 3 of Friendswood ISD’s The Podcast with Kelsey Golz and Sofia Armintor! In this episode of FISD’s #ThePodcast, we’re joined by Jamie Rogers, Principal of the Therapeutic Education Center (TEC), a unique campus serving students with autism, emotional disabilities, and low-incidence disabilities. Jamie shares the story behind TEC’s partnership between Friendswood, Alvin, and Pearland ISDs, the specialized support offered to students, and the collaborative work with families to ensure success. Tune in to hear about the challenges, rewards, and future goals of TEC, and discover how you can support their impactful work!

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2 of Friendswood ISD’s The Podcast with Kelsey Golz and Sofia Armintor! We're kicking off the season with a fascinating dive into the history of our district. For this episode, we’re joined by Friendswood Schools Museum volunteers Mark Parmenter and Judy Connors. They’ll share the inspiration behind the museum, the process of curating its unique artifacts, and some of the most surprising stories hidden within its walls. With FISD celebrating 85 years, we’ll also uncover lesser-known pieces of district history and discuss how the community can help preserve this legacy for future generations. Don’t miss this epic journey through time!