Is gaming the new "team sport"? Clement teachers Darren Ching and Anthony Alacorn join us to discuss the rise of RUSD Esports and why competitive gaming is essentially "fast-paced chess". From "Golden Pikachu" victories to teaching sportsmanship and perseverance through Super Smash Bros, our guests share how they built a thriving gaming community. Tune in to discover the academic and social benefits students realize through gaming and why Esports belong in our schools.

Get ready to RAISE your AI game! Our special guest, Deputy Superintendent Jason Hill, breaks down RUSD’s new initiative for integrating generative AI into our schools. Learn all about the new Redlands Launchpad, how staff can use AI tools to boost their work, and the ultimate vision for innovation across the district.

In this episode of Tips and Salsa, we’re joined by sixth-grade filmmaking phenom Calvin Catania! 🎬 From taco-fueled inspiration to film noir flair, Calvin shares the stories behind his standout RUSD FilmFest submissions and what it’s like to see his work hit the big screen.

2025 film: Cheap$kate

2024 fim: The Young Cowboy

Is scrolling getting in the way of schooling? In this episode, we sit down with Sue Thotz from Common Sense Education to talk about online safety, digital citizenship, and the growing push for phone-free schools. Tune in as we explore the challenges, the new California law, and what schools, parents, and students need to know!

How does our district stay connected and protected? In this episode, we chat with David Monaco, Director of Technology Services, about the challenges of managing IT, the importance of cybersecurity, and what’s next for tech in our schools.

Join us as we chat with Karen Burk, our 2024 Garner Holt Teacher of the Year, about the amazing AniMakerspace Lab at Victoria, her favorite projects, and how it’s inspiring students to create and innovate!

Meet our student guests!

Join us as we dive into the California Science & Engineering Fair with teacher Colleen Duncan and standout student Michael Stodelle. Learn about the fair's impact and how to get involved, and hear how Michael's project last year reached the international stage!

Google Classroom class codes:

In this episode, we’re joined once again by Redlands USD Superintendent Cabral for a “one year later” check-in. We first spoke with him as he began his journey with RUSD, and now he’s back to share reflections on his first year, the challenges and accomplishments along the way, and his vision for the year ahead.

We're back! In this episode, we chat with Jenn Moore, President of the Redlands Educational Partnership Foundation, about REP's mission and the fantastic opportunities it offers RUSD teachers.

After listening, check out rep4schools.com!

Join us as we reminisce about the past year, bid some heartfelt farewells, and explore the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.