In this episode, we dive into the powerful impact that school communities have beyond just academics. From a heartfelt story about students being relocated due to construction, to the emotional and social connections that happen when kids get to spend time together outside the classroom. We explore the importance of these moments for students’ well-being and how it goes far beyond worksheets and computer work.

We also highlight the incredible achievement of a local school earning the prestigious Lighthouse School certification from the Stephen Covey Foundation. This recognition celebrates the dedication of both teachers and students in developing leadership skills and lifelong habits for success.

Hear inspiring stories from the Evening of Excellence, where students honor teachers who made a lasting impact on their lives — from coaches who kept them on track to teachers who stayed in touch years later. We talk about how these connections validate the hard work educators put in every day.

Finally, we discuss exciting ideas for the future of school sports facilities and what it means to be part of the school foundation board, encouraging listeners to get involved and make a difference.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about the power of education, community, and leadership.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this colorful episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi welcome Aly Quinn, events coordinator at the Rapid City Public Library, for a lively conversation about the magic of summer reading. Ally shares how the library partners with the school district and the community to keep kids engaged and minds growing all summer long. From prize-filled reading challenges and VR gaming to 3D printing and surprise visits from raptors, the summer line-up is packed with fun for all ages.

Whether you're a parent looking for ways to fight the summer slide or a book-lover hunting for your next true crime binge, this episode is your backstage pass to everything the library has to offer including the chance to win a community-wide pizza party. Plus, stick around for favorite school cafeteria foods, beloved childhood books, and one librarian’s confession about playing Xena: Warrior Princess at recess.

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We sit down with Shannon Bren, a passionate math teacher who has dedicated nearly 40 years to the classroom. Since her very first day of teaching in 1984, Shannon has learned that education is so much more than just lesson plans and curriculum it’s about connection, empathy, and adapting to the unique needs of every student.

Join us as Shannon shares stories from her incredible teaching journey how she has grown alongside her students, embraced the challenges of changing educational landscapes, and discovered the profound impact a caring teacher can have on young lives. From moments of frustration to breakthroughs of understanding, Shannon’s reflections reveal the resilience, patience, and love that fuel her commitment to education.

We explore how Shannon fosters respect and trust in her classroom, her philosophy on learning from mistakes, and why she believes teaching is one of the most important and rewarding professions out there. Whether you’re a current educator, a student, or simply someone who values the role of teachers in our communities, this conversation offers rich insights and genuine inspiration.

Tune in for a meaningful discussion that honors the tireless work of teachers everywhere and celebrates the lasting legacy Shannon has built through thousands of students across generations.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Sara Hornick and Community Relations Manager Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with a true pioneer of public education advocacy, Sharon Lee, the founder and former executive director of the Rapid City Public School Foundation. Recorded in Studio 3B at the HomeSlice Media Group, this conversation goes back over 30 years to the very beginnings of the foundation and explores how one idea sparked a lasting movement in education.

Sharon shares the origin story of the foundation how a conversation with local attorneys turned into a mission to support educators through community-driven funding. With warmth, humility, and passion, she reflects on the challenges of gaining community trust, the joy of awarding classroom grants, and the pride she feels in seeing programs like Teacher of the Year and the Evening of Excellence continue to thrive.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder that true change in education doesn’t just come from policies or politics, it comes from people who care deeply and act boldly. Sharon’s story is proof that one person’s vision can ignite a legacy that benefits generations of students and teachers.

Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just someone who believes in the power of public schools, this episode will leave you inspired to dream big, act locally, and never underestimate the power of a community with a shared purpose.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the very first episode of the Public School Podcast, host Sarah Hornick, Executive Director of the Rapid City Public School Foundation, sits down with Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for the school district, to pull back the curtain on how the Foundation and district work hand-in-hand to uplift students, teachers, and staff across the city. From funding classroom innovations like smart boards to ensuring every child is fed and ready to learn, this episode reveals the heart behind the headlines—and the power of partnership. Hear how a simple $50 grant turned into a life-changing moment, why celebrating support staff matters more than ever, and how education is evolving to meet students where they are. It’s a conversation full of hope, collaboration, and a shared belief in the impact of public education done right.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.