https://www.gips.org/
The GIPS Cast is a conversation-based podcast exploring the world of public education thru the voices of one of Nebraska’s largest, most diverse school districts.

#WeAreGIPS]]>enEducationCopyright Grand Island Public Schoolshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/0d3a73f16b1f1d85a1b978bbb56643bc.jpghttps://www.gips.org/Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:02:28 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsGrand Island Public Schoolscommunications@gips.orgThe official podcast of Grand Island Public Schools in Nebraska. The GIPS Cast is a conversation-based podcast exploring the world of public education thru the voices of one of Nebraska’s largest, most diverse school districts. #WeAreGIPS
The GIPS Cast is a conversation-based podcast exploring the world of public education thru the voices of one of Nebraska’s largest, most diverse school districts.

#WeAreGIPS]]>falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/intermission-for-july-updates-for-2026-27--72761759
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director, joins the podcast to share a brief public service announcement in two parts. 

Part One: 
'The GIPS Cast' will be on a brief intermission for the month of July 2026. 

Part Two: 
We're updating the podcast format and storytelling focus starting in August 2026. 

Hear Mitch's update for the full rundown of what's next for the podcast. 

Even with our monthlong intermission and new formatting on the horizon, we will continue anchoring each episode with the voices and stories of our staff and students. 

Because it’s our staff and students who make Grand Island Public Schools a great place to be. 

Don’t go anywhere listeners! 

Our break is just for the month of July. 

In the meantime, you’re welcome to listen, or perhaps RElisten, to our backlog of 75 episodes. 
And as we ramp up for the 2026-27 school year, we’ll be back with some more great stories from our district. 

See you soon! 

-- 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--
WEBSITE:  https://www.gips.org 

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

IG:  @gipublicschools ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72761759Tue, 30 Jun 2026 19:52:48 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsExciting stories and a new format are on the horizon for 'The GIPS Cast'!  Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director, joins the podcast to share a brief public service announcement in two parts.  Part One:  'The GIPS Cast' will be on a brief...
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director, joins the podcast to share a brief public service announcement in two parts. 

Part One: 
'The GIPS Cast' will be on a brief intermission for the month of July 2026. 

Part Two: 
We're updating the podcast format and storytelling focus starting in August 2026. 

Hear Mitch's update for the full rundown of what's next for the podcast. 

Even with our monthlong intermission and new formatting on the horizon, we will continue anchoring each episode with the voices and stories of our staff and students. 

Because it’s our staff and students who make Grand Island Public Schools a great place to be. 

Don’t go anywhere listeners! 

Our break is just for the month of July. 

In the meantime, you’re welcome to listen, or perhaps RElisten, to our backlog of 75 episodes. 
And as we ramp up for the 2026-27 school year, we’ll be back with some more great stories from our district. 

See you soon! 

-- 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--
WEBSITE:  https://www.gips.org 

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

IG:  @gipublicschools ]]>290education,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,studentexperience,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/advocating-for-every-student-w-breanna-mcdonald-lincoln-elementary--72422922
Mrs. McDonald has been with GIPS for a decade, with the last four years serving as the Principal of Lincoln Elementary.  As a former Kindergarten Teacher and Academic Support Coach, she has a big heart for not just reaching every student — but advocating for every student and their families. 

Everything she does is fueled by the mission of building a strong community.  A community for her staff to feel supported in collaboration and their expertise; a community for students to feel seen, heard, and gain opportunities for them to succeed; a community for families to feel like Lincoln Elementary is their second home.  All of it is community. 

At the close of the school year, Mrs. McDonald joined our podcast to share her philosophy of public education, and give an inside glimpse into what makes Lincoln Elementary special and how she and her staff view each school day as an opportunity to make an impact.


-- 

GUEST:
Breanna McDonald - Lincoln Elementary Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72422922Tue, 09 Jun 2026 07:30:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsBreanna McDonald is a community builder.  Mrs. McDonald has been with GIPS for a decade, with the last four years serving as the Principal of Lincoln Elementary.  As a former Kindergarten Teacher and Academic Support Coach, she has a big heart for...
Mrs. McDonald has been with GIPS for a decade, with the last four years serving as the Principal of Lincoln Elementary.  As a former Kindergarten Teacher and Academic Support Coach, she has a big heart for not just reaching every student — but advocating for every student and their families. 

Everything she does is fueled by the mission of building a strong community.  A community for her staff to feel supported in collaboration and their expertise; a community for students to feel seen, heard, and gain opportunities for them to succeed; a community for families to feel like Lincoln Elementary is their second home.  All of it is community. 

At the close of the school year, Mrs. McDonald joined our podcast to share her philosophy of public education, and give an inside glimpse into what makes Lincoln Elementary special and how she and her staff view each school day as an opportunity to make an impact.


-- 

GUEST:
Breanna McDonald - Lincoln Elementary Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1675education,elementaryschool,gips,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,principal,publiceducation,publicschools,school,studentlife,students,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-poetry-accessible-to-all-w-nebraska-state-poet-jewel-rodgers-tessa-bockoven-gish-senior--71990027
That’s certainly the message our current state poet, Jewel Rodgers, is taking with her to call corners of Nebraska. 

For those that don’t know, Jewel Rodgers is a creative force.  She fills a room with laughter, with dynamic spoken word gravitas, and spend 10 minutes with her and you’ll know beyond a doubt that she is driven by not only sharing her creative work but championing the power of voice in others. 

Jewel served as the Nebraska State Poet since 2025 and is the first African American to hold the role.  She has been a spoken word poet for more than a decade, performing in schools, festivals, community settings, conferences, public events, and other venues.

Recently, Jewel visited Grand Island Senior High to lead a student writers workshop and host a Poetry Reading & Open Mic Night event. 

GISH Senior Tessa Bockoven sat down with Jewel, on the mic, to dish on poetry, the creative process, the effects of A.I., and so, so much more.  Their conversation is an authentic journey of two creatives — one in high school venturing soon to college; and the other a statewide ambassador for all things poetry.

Jewel even performs one of her favorite personal pieces. 

-- 

GUESTS: 
Jewel Rodgers - Nebraska State Poet
Tessa Bockoven - GISH Senior 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71990027Wed, 13 May 2026 13:50:10 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsThere’s power in the written and the spoken word.  That’s certainly the message our current state poet, Jewel Rodgers, is taking with her to call corners of Nebraska.  For those that don’t know, Jewel Rodgers is a creative force.  She fills a room...
That’s certainly the message our current state poet, Jewel Rodgers, is taking with her to call corners of Nebraska. 

For those that don’t know, Jewel Rodgers is a creative force.  She fills a room with laughter, with dynamic spoken word gravitas, and spend 10 minutes with her and you’ll know beyond a doubt that she is driven by not only sharing her creative work but championing the power of voice in others. 

Jewel served as the Nebraska State Poet since 2025 and is the first African American to hold the role.  She has been a spoken word poet for more than a decade, performing in schools, festivals, community settings, conferences, public events, and other venues.

Recently, Jewel visited Grand Island Senior High to lead a student writers workshop and host a Poetry Reading & Open Mic Night event. 

GISH Senior Tessa Bockoven sat down with Jewel, on the mic, to dish on poetry, the creative process, the effects of A.I., and so, so much more.  Their conversation is an authentic journey of two creatives — one in high school venturing soon to college; and the other a statewide ambassador for all things poetry.

Jewel even performs one of her favorite personal pieces. 

-- 

GUESTS: 
Jewel Rodgers - Nebraska State Poet
Tessa Bockoven - GISH Senior 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2460education,gips,gipscast,gish,highschool,jewelrodgers,nebraska,poet,poetry,school,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/life-as-a-middle-school-social-studies-teacher-w-ms-jen-kramer--71158715
Jen Kramer is more than a Middle School Social Studies Teacher — she is a cheerleader for all Middle School students. 

11 years into teaching at the Middle School level, you’ll find an incredible blend of learning, laughter, fun, and insight in her classroom.  Sometimes she’ll be dressed-up in a George Washington costume — and all of it driven by connecting with students and helping them connect with the power of other people’s stories.

Ms. Kramer joins 'The GIPS Cast' to dish on social studies, the fun found in teaching Middle School, and the lasting impact of public education.

Because she believes every student can do great things, and that history has a way of sparking inspiration.

-- 

GUEST: 
Jen Kramer - 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Westridge Middle Schools 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71158715Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:47:09 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Trying to put kids into history helps make those connections and makes it [learning] fun for them... There's endless possibilities and opportunities." Jen Kramer is more than a Middle School Social Studies Teacher — she is a cheerleader for all...
Jen Kramer is more than a Middle School Social Studies Teacher — she is a cheerleader for all Middle School students. 

11 years into teaching at the Middle School level, you’ll find an incredible blend of learning, laughter, fun, and insight in her classroom.  Sometimes she’ll be dressed-up in a George Washington costume — and all of it driven by connecting with students and helping them connect with the power of other people’s stories.

Ms. Kramer joins 'The GIPS Cast' to dish on social studies, the fun found in teaching Middle School, and the lasting impact of public education.

Because she believes every student can do great things, and that history has a way of sparking inspiration.

-- 

GUEST: 
Jen Kramer - 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Westridge Middle Schools 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1263education,gips,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,learning,middleschool,publiceducation,school,students,teachers,teaching,westridgefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/student-voice-leading-the-mentoring-movement-w-angie-reagan-zuri-and-mentor-nebraska--70851549
For 25 years, Mentor Nebraska has been a leader in honoring the past and empowering the next generation.

This year, Mentor Nebraska launched something really cool; something that’s been on their vision board for a while.  This year, Mentor Nebraska established its first ever Youth Advisory Board.  Made up of nine high school students from across Nebraska, the Youth Advisory Board exists to amplify youth voices and to give student leaders the opportunity to shape the vision and impact of mentoring for both the present and the future. 

As if that wasn’t cool enough, Grand Island Senior High has three student representatives serving on this landmark Youth Advisory Board.  Angie, Reagan, & Zuri are more than just high school students — they’re leaders with passion.

Angie, Reagan, & Zuri join the podcast alongside Melissa Westbrook, Mentor Nebraska Associate Director of Member Engagement & Learning, to chat about why mentoring for youth matters, and how students are saving the world. 

-- 

GUESTS: 
Angie De Orta - GISH Junior 
Zuri Gomez Cotom - GISH Senior 
Reagan Kort - GISH Senior 
Melissa Westbrook - Mentor Nebraska Associate Director of Engagement & Learning

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70851549Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:46:40 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Young people have the voice — we just need to pass the mic."  For 25 years, Mentor Nebraska has been a leader in honoring the past and empowering the next generation. This year, Mentor Nebraska launched something really cool; something that’s been...
For 25 years, Mentor Nebraska has been a leader in honoring the past and empowering the next generation.

This year, Mentor Nebraska launched something really cool; something that’s been on their vision board for a while.  This year, Mentor Nebraska established its first ever Youth Advisory Board.  Made up of nine high school students from across Nebraska, the Youth Advisory Board exists to amplify youth voices and to give student leaders the opportunity to shape the vision and impact of mentoring for both the present and the future. 

As if that wasn’t cool enough, Grand Island Senior High has three student representatives serving on this landmark Youth Advisory Board.  Angie, Reagan, & Zuri are more than just high school students — they’re leaders with passion.

Angie, Reagan, & Zuri join the podcast alongside Melissa Westbrook, Mentor Nebraska Associate Director of Member Engagement & Learning, to chat about why mentoring for youth matters, and how students are saving the world. 

-- 

GUESTS: 
Angie De Orta - GISH Junior 
Zuri Gomez Cotom - GISH Senior 
Reagan Kort - GISH Senior 
Melissa Westbrook - Mentor Nebraska Associate Director of Engagement & Learning

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2032education,gips,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,mentoring,mentornebraska,nebraska,schools,students,teach,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/public-schools-the-trades-community-impact-w-brian-levander--70403193
As a proud Islander alum of the class of 1995, Brian Levander knew he wanted a future in the trades.  And that’s where his passion led him. 

Nearly 30 years later, Brian is the proud Owner & CEO of Levander’s Automotive.  Operating shops in numerous states and all across Nebraska, he was intentional in building his foundation in the community that raised him… Grand Island. 

Levander joins ‘The GIPS Cast’ to share his story of working hard and finding his passion, and how communities are only as strong as their public schools and vice versa. 

Because it’s not just about working hard; it’s about building something that you’re proud of. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Brian Levander - Owner & CEO of Levander's Automotive 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70403193Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:30:02 +0000Grand Island Public Schools“Education at its core is the essence of upward mobility… So if you have a great foundation of exploring in life and trying new things, that life will never lose its luster.”  As a proud Islander alum of the class of 1995, Brian Levander knew he...
As a proud Islander alum of the class of 1995, Brian Levander knew he wanted a future in the trades.  And that’s where his passion led him. 

Nearly 30 years later, Brian is the proud Owner & CEO of Levander’s Automotive.  Operating shops in numerous states and all across Nebraska, he was intentional in building his foundation in the community that raised him… Grand Island. 

Levander joins ‘The GIPS Cast’ to share his story of working hard and finding his passion, and how communities are only as strong as their public schools and vice versa. 

Because it’s not just about working hard; it’s about building something that you’re proud of. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Brian Levander - Owner & CEO of Levander's Automotive 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1326automotive,education,gips,gipscast,gish,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,levanders,nebraska,publicschools,school,schools,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skillsusa-robotics-the-power-of-cte-at-senior-high-w-max-mendez-gish-senior--69621564
A Senior at Grand Island Senior High, he’s taking AP and gaining hands-on learning experiences with community partners through Senior Capstone.  Max is also a leader in the GISH SkillsUSA chapter, the Nebraska State Treasurer for SkillsUSA after serving as a State Parliamentarian last year, he's in HOSA for future healthcare workers, and he’s a team leader for the Islander Robotics team. 

And that’s what makes Max’s story a meaningful one, because his story is like many others at Grand Island Senior High and at public schools across the country.  It all started by him saying “yes” to get involved in a few things as a Freshman.  From there he met friends, found confidence in classes, shared his ideas, and speaks in front of students and delegates (even when he's afraid).

Because it's not just about learning; it's about empowering students to discover who they want to be. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Max Mendez - Senior at GISH 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69621564Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:38:55 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsMax Mendez is a busy student. A Senior at Grand Island Senior High, he’s taking AP and gaining hands-on learning experiences with community partners through Senior Capstone.  Max is also a leader in the GISH SkillsUSA chapter, the Nebraska State...
A Senior at Grand Island Senior High, he’s taking AP and gaining hands-on learning experiences with community partners through Senior Capstone.  Max is also a leader in the GISH SkillsUSA chapter, the Nebraska State Treasurer for SkillsUSA after serving as a State Parliamentarian last year, he's in HOSA for future healthcare workers, and he’s a team leader for the Islander Robotics team. 

And that’s what makes Max’s story a meaningful one, because his story is like many others at Grand Island Senior High and at public schools across the country.  It all started by him saying “yes” to get involved in a few things as a Freshman.  From there he met friends, found confidence in classes, shared his ideas, and speaks in front of students and delegates (even when he's afraid).

Because it's not just about learning; it's about empowering students to discover who they want to be. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Max Mendez - Senior at GISH 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1507education,gipscast,gish,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,learning,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-money-make-sense-in-middle-school-w-mr-blake-teichmeier--69420254
While we have personal finance classes at GISH, it’s really at the Middle School level that we see money starting to make sense for students. 

For Mr. Blake Teichmeier, Middle School is the perfect time to start talking with students about money because of all the life exploration and opportunities that hit when a kid turns 13 and 14 years old.  More importantly, he believes anchoring Financial Literacy concepts at the Middle School level gives students the confidence to become responsible decision makers. 

Mr. Teichmeier is the Financial Literacy Teacher at Walnut Middle School.  He joins our podcast to talk about how creativity, real world job simulations, and recreating a financial infrastructure in his classes helps students gain valuable money — and life — insights.  He also shares the story of winning an award and start-up money for a special financial literacy project he’s been working on for a number of years. 

Because it's not just about making sense out of money, it's about equipping students with what they need to be confident decision makers. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Blake Teichmeier - Walnut Middle School Financial Literacy Teacher

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69420254Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:28:18 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsDid you know that our Middle School students take financial literacy courses?  While we have personal finance classes at GISH, it’s really at the Middle School level that we see money starting to make sense for students.  For Mr. Blake Teichmeier,...
While we have personal finance classes at GISH, it’s really at the Middle School level that we see money starting to make sense for students. 

For Mr. Blake Teichmeier, Middle School is the perfect time to start talking with students about money because of all the life exploration and opportunities that hit when a kid turns 13 and 14 years old.  More importantly, he believes anchoring Financial Literacy concepts at the Middle School level gives students the confidence to become responsible decision makers. 

Mr. Teichmeier is the Financial Literacy Teacher at Walnut Middle School.  He joins our podcast to talk about how creativity, real world job simulations, and recreating a financial infrastructure in his classes helps students gain valuable money — and life — insights.  He also shares the story of winning an award and start-up money for a special financial literacy project he’s been working on for a number of years. 

Because it's not just about making sense out of money, it's about equipping students with what they need to be confident decision makers. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Blake Teichmeier - Walnut Middle School Financial Literacy Teacher

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1841education,educator,finance,finances,financialliteracy,gips,gipscast,gipspodcast,middleschool,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teaching,teenagersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cultivating-a-sense-of-home-in-grand-island-w-laura-gambora-urrego-gish-class-of-2016--69069491
Laura Gamboa Urrego believes everyone should feel welcome in their hometown. 

Coming to Grand Island from the country of Colombia as a Kindergartner, she experienced first-hand the power of feeling welcome in a new space… Her local public schools. 

As a student at Newell Elementary, Walnut Middle School, and Grand Island Senior High, she learned to speak English, she thrived in her educational journey thanks to incredible educators, and she found her passion for connecting with people in the community. 

After graduation from GISH in 2016 she ventured to the University of Nebraska Lincoln where she earned degrees in Global Studies and Political Science and minored in Human Rights. 

With her degrees in-hand, and a love for welcoming folks from around the world Laura headed back to her hometown of Grand Island to give back to the community that gave her so much. 

And that’s where we find her today.

Laura currently serves as the Director of Community Engagement at Stuhr Museum — one of Grand Island’s flagship organizations. 

She was kind enough to stop to share her story with us for our annual alumni series. 

Because what makes the work of public education so meaningful is seeing how our students continue to make an impact after high school. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Laura Gamboa Urrego - Stuhr Museum Director of Community Engagement

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69069491Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:06:42 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We're making history together right now."  Laura Gamboa Urrego believes everyone should feel welcome in their hometown.  Coming to Grand Island from the country of Colombia as a Kindergartner, she experienced first-hand the power of feeling welcome...
Laura Gamboa Urrego believes everyone should feel welcome in their hometown. 

Coming to Grand Island from the country of Colombia as a Kindergartner, she experienced first-hand the power of feeling welcome in a new space… Her local public schools. 

As a student at Newell Elementary, Walnut Middle School, and Grand Island Senior High, she learned to speak English, she thrived in her educational journey thanks to incredible educators, and she found her passion for connecting with people in the community. 

After graduation from GISH in 2016 she ventured to the University of Nebraska Lincoln where she earned degrees in Global Studies and Political Science and minored in Human Rights. 

With her degrees in-hand, and a love for welcoming folks from around the world Laura headed back to her hometown of Grand Island to give back to the community that gave her so much. 

And that’s where we find her today.

Laura currently serves as the Director of Community Engagement at Stuhr Museum — one of Grand Island’s flagship organizations. 

She was kind enough to stop to share her story with us for our annual alumni series. 

Because what makes the work of public education so meaningful is seeing how our students continue to make an impact after high school. 

-- 

GUEST: 
Laura Gamboa Urrego - Stuhr Museum Director of Community Engagement

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2343community,education,gips,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publicrelations,publicschools,school,schools,stuhrmuseum,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/middle-school-advocacy-at-the-state-legislature-w-sen-dan-quick-barr-8th-graders--68610920
On this special episode of 'The GIPS Cast', you'll hear a conversation between some 8th Grade students and their State Senator.

Senator Dan Quick is a Representative for District 35 in our Nebraska State Legislature.  He’s a Grand Island guy.

Last week, he visited Barr Middle School.  He shared a bit of his story during an assembly, students asked him questions, he visited a science class, he explored hallway passing periods, and event got to experience a fire drill. 

The highlight of Senator Quick’s visit was when he sat down with three 8th Graders for an interview.

Mya, Dezirae, & Jaxsen are student leaders.  They’re supportive of their classmates, involved in a number of extracurricular activities, and all three of them are deeply invested in making their school as great as it can been.

So, they took advantage of an incredible opportunity:  They sat down with Senator Quick to interview him for this podcast.

As you’ll hear, the students were professional, but they asked the Senator good questions about how their voices can be heard, how their student experiences will be impacted by the legislature, and how Senator Quick enjoyed the chance to speak with students.

--

GUESTS: 
Senator Dan Quick - Nebraska Legislature
Mya, Dezirae, & Jaxsen - Barr 8th Grade Students

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68610920Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsIf you give students the opportunity to speak-up, they will.  And they’re going to remind you that they’re astute, observant, and every bit as invested in their experiences as adults are – if not more so.  On this special episode of 'The GIPS Cast',...
On this special episode of 'The GIPS Cast', you'll hear a conversation between some 8th Grade students and their State Senator.

Senator Dan Quick is a Representative for District 35 in our Nebraska State Legislature.  He’s a Grand Island guy.

Last week, he visited Barr Middle School.  He shared a bit of his story during an assembly, students asked him questions, he visited a science class, he explored hallway passing periods, and event got to experience a fire drill. 

The highlight of Senator Quick’s visit was when he sat down with three 8th Graders for an interview.

Mya, Dezirae, & Jaxsen are student leaders.  They’re supportive of their classmates, involved in a number of extracurricular activities, and all three of them are deeply invested in making their school as great as it can been.

So, they took advantage of an incredible opportunity:  They sat down with Senator Quick to interview him for this podcast.

As you’ll hear, the students were professional, but they asked the Senator good questions about how their voices can be heard, how their student experiences will be impacted by the legislature, and how Senator Quick enjoyed the chance to speak with students.

--

GUESTS: 
Senator Dan Quick - Nebraska Legislature
Mya, Dezirae, & Jaxsen - Barr 8th Grade Students

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1490barrmiddleschool,education,gips,gipscast,government,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,legislature,middleschool,nebraska,school,schools,senator,studentleaders,students,studentvoice,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-a-sense-of-belonging-at-school-w-whitney-flower--68413869
In public schools, educators seek to build confidence in students, and equip them with the tools they need to confidently engage the world.

Perhaps most importantly, that means building a sense of belonging for students.  Helping students feel like they belong at school, in many ways, fuels everything we do at Grand Island Public Schools.

And that’s where Whitney Flower comes in.

Mrs. Whitney Flower is the Principal at Stolley Park Elementary.   As passionate leader and supporter of people, Mrs. Flower is driven by helping every single student feel like they belong at school.

She joins our podcast to share her philosophy of student belonging, how she cultivates strong staff culture, and why there’s always room for a pop-culture reference when telling stories. 

Because school is about learning.  But it’s also so much more than that. 

--

GUEST: 
Whitney Flower - Stolley Park Elementary Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68413869Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:17:47 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We're all coming together to learn and to dream.  We're investing in their dreams." In public schools, educators seek to build confidence in students, and equip them with the tools they need to confidently engage the world. Perhaps most...
In public schools, educators seek to build confidence in students, and equip them with the tools they need to confidently engage the world.

Perhaps most importantly, that means building a sense of belonging for students.  Helping students feel like they belong at school, in many ways, fuels everything we do at Grand Island Public Schools.

And that’s where Whitney Flower comes in.

Mrs. Whitney Flower is the Principal at Stolley Park Elementary.   As passionate leader and supporter of people, Mrs. Flower is driven by helping every single student feel like they belong at school.

She joins our podcast to share her philosophy of student belonging, how she cultivates strong staff culture, and why there’s always room for a pop-culture reference when telling stories. 

Because school is about learning.  But it’s also so much more than that. 

--

GUEST: 
Whitney Flower - Stolley Park Elementary Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2011companyculture,culture,education,elementaryschool,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,principal,publicschools,school,schoolleader,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/100-years-of-the-crosstown-clash-barr-vs-walnut-football-game--68149283
It’s a rare thing to hit such a milestone.  And even more rare is the opportunity to celebrate the moment when it arrives.

The episode will be a bit different from our typical programming, but we're excited to to share this historic narrative. 

Barr and Walnut Middle Schools have been meeting annually for a “Crosstown Clash” football game for 100 years straight.  And on October 16th, 2025, we'll be celebrating the milestone at the annual game.

To help us commemorate the rich history of Bulldogs vs Wildcats on the gridiron, we’ve enlisted the talents of “The Voice of the Islanders” himself, Brian Gallagher.  He narrates the historical account on this episode tracing through the storied Grand Island rivalry.

Peppered throughout the narrative will be a couple familiar voices, Mr. Brian Kort, and Mr. Rod Foley, sharing their insights about the famed Barr vs Walnut match-up.

We’re grateful to have such a rich history here at GIPS.

Catch the storied 100-year history of the Barr vs Walnut 'Crosstown Clash' Football Game.

--

GUESTS: 
Brian Gallagher - KRGI Radio
Brian Kort - GIPS Recruiting & Rentention Coordinator & Former Barr Principal
Rod Foley - Walnut Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68149283Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:33:54 +0000Grand Island Public Schools100 years of a legendary football rivalry.  It’s a rare thing to hit such a milestone.  And even more rare is the opportunity to celebrate the moment when it arrives. The episode will be a bit different from our typical programming, but we're...
It’s a rare thing to hit such a milestone.  And even more rare is the opportunity to celebrate the moment when it arrives.

The episode will be a bit different from our typical programming, but we're excited to to share this historic narrative. 

Barr and Walnut Middle Schools have been meeting annually for a “Crosstown Clash” football game for 100 years straight.  And on October 16th, 2025, we'll be celebrating the milestone at the annual game.

To help us commemorate the rich history of Bulldogs vs Wildcats on the gridiron, we’ve enlisted the talents of “The Voice of the Islanders” himself, Brian Gallagher.  He narrates the historical account on this episode tracing through the storied Grand Island rivalry.

Peppered throughout the narrative will be a couple familiar voices, Mr. Brian Kort, and Mr. Rod Foley, sharing their insights about the famed Barr vs Walnut match-up.

We’re grateful to have such a rich history here at GIPS.

Catch the storied 100-year history of the Barr vs Walnut 'Crosstown Clash' Football Game.

--

GUESTS: 
Brian Gallagher - KRGI Radio
Brian Kort - GIPS Recruiting & Rentention Coordinator & Former Barr Principal
Rod Foley - Walnut Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1128education,football,gips,grandislandpublicschools,middleschool,nebraska,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/literacy-self-expression-thru-4th-grade-personal-narratives-w-dodge-wasmer-elementaries--67947137
Literacy is a gateway to, well, pretty much everything.

As we’ve shared on this podcast before, literacy is more than just reading.

And in 4th Grade at GIPS, students start the year by diving into writing Personal Narrative projects as part of their literacy curriculum. 

Mrs. Leah Starner, 4th Grade Teacher at Dodge Elementary, and Miss Katie Zuelow, 4th Grade Teacher at Wasmer Elementary, join the podcast to share as a veteran teacher and as a new teacher how they seek to unlock students' voices through crafting personal narratives.

Mrs. Starner & Miss Z unpack how students explore different storytelling devices, the topics kids like to share, and why writing personal stories connects to lifelong skills.

Along the way, a crew of 4th Grade students (two from Dodge; two from Wasmer) jump on the mic to read their own personal narratives that they crafted during the unit. 

Because it's about empowering every student to feel confident expressing themselves. 

--

GUESTS: 
Mrs. Leah Starner - Dodge Elementary 4th Grade Teacher
Celene & Sabriin - Dodge 4th Graders
Miss Katie Zuelow - Wasmer Elementary 4th Grade Teacher
Sophia & Galvin - Wasmer 4th Graders 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67947137Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:15:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Learning how to tell your story — I shared with them that 'your stories matter'. Because maybe some kids think that their stories are too small or unimportant and it all matters how you tell it.  Your voice matters."  Literacy is a gateway to, well,...
Literacy is a gateway to, well, pretty much everything.

As we’ve shared on this podcast before, literacy is more than just reading.

And in 4th Grade at GIPS, students start the year by diving into writing Personal Narrative projects as part of their literacy curriculum. 

Mrs. Leah Starner, 4th Grade Teacher at Dodge Elementary, and Miss Katie Zuelow, 4th Grade Teacher at Wasmer Elementary, join the podcast to share as a veteran teacher and as a new teacher how they seek to unlock students' voices through crafting personal narratives.

Mrs. Starner & Miss Z unpack how students explore different storytelling devices, the topics kids like to share, and why writing personal stories connects to lifelong skills.

Along the way, a crew of 4th Grade students (two from Dodge; two from Wasmer) jump on the mic to read their own personal narratives that they crafted during the unit. 

Because it's about empowering every student to feel confident expressing themselves. 

--

GUESTS: 
Mrs. Leah Starner - Dodge Elementary 4th Grade Teacher
Celene & Sabriin - Dodge 4th Graders
Miss Katie Zuelow - Wasmer Elementary 4th Grade Teacher
Sophia & Galvin - Wasmer 4th Graders 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1628amplifyckla,ckla,education,elementaryschool,gips,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,learning,literacy,narrative,nebraska,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teaching,writingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/budget-planning-for-the-future-of-gips-w-matt-fisher--67788450
The start of the school year also brings a new fiscal year.  Which means, GIPS is in the midst of budget season. 

Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, joins 'The GIPS Cast' to give on overview on the financial health of the district.

Along the way, Mr. Fisher looks ahead to what GIPS has planned for the 2025-26 school year budget, how the district is able to lower its tax levy for a third year in a row, and why now is an important time for to start planning ahead for future growth and facility needs.

Because it's about casting a vision on how best to partner with our community to take care of our students. 

--

GUEST: 
Matt Fisher - GIPS Superintendent 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67788450Wed, 17 Sep 2025 06:05:08 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We're going to continue to work towards being conservatively responsible with the funds that we have, and, develop long range plans that hopefully are going to put Grand Island as a school district and as a community in a great place." The start of...
The start of the school year also brings a new fiscal year.  Which means, GIPS is in the midst of budget season. 

Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, joins 'The GIPS Cast' to give on overview on the financial health of the district.

Along the way, Mr. Fisher looks ahead to what GIPS has planned for the 2025-26 school year budget, how the district is able to lower its tax levy for a third year in a row, and why now is an important time for to start planning ahead for future growth and facility needs.

Because it's about casting a vision on how best to partner with our community to take care of our students. 

--

GUEST: 
Matt Fisher - GIPS Superintendent 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1571education,gips,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-classroom-to-clinics-inside-the-gish-medical-academy-w-greg-schlegel--67697602
Over 600 students, nearly a quarter of the current GISH student body, are in the Academy of Medical Sciences & Education.

As the Academy with the largest enrollment, curating Medical Sciences and Education experiences is a big job.  Mr. Greg Schlegel leads that Academy as Principal alongside his team of Counselors and Educators.

With 19 years in Public Education under his belt, and serving as the GISH Medical Academy Principal since its launch — Mr. Schlegel has become a consistent voice advocating for new and innovative work-based learning experiences for students.

Mr. Schlegel joins The GIPS Cast to discuss: 

• Community partners that help shape student experiences 
• The importance of Career-Technical Education
• How Islander students are finishing high school ahead of the curve 

Because it's about providing real-world opportunities for students to discover not just what they want to do but who they want to be. 

--

GUEST: 
Greg Schlegel - GISH Academy of Medical Sciences & Education Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67697602Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:38:08 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"The more we can connect school to careers, pathways, and skills that that students will one day enter into, the more kids are going to be engaged in school." Over 600 students, nearly a quarter of the current GISH student body, are in the Academy of...
Over 600 students, nearly a quarter of the current GISH student body, are in the Academy of Medical Sciences & Education.

As the Academy with the largest enrollment, curating Medical Sciences and Education experiences is a big job.  Mr. Greg Schlegel leads that Academy as Principal alongside his team of Counselors and Educators.

With 19 years in Public Education under his belt, and serving as the GISH Medical Academy Principal since its launch — Mr. Schlegel has become a consistent voice advocating for new and innovative work-based learning experiences for students.

Mr. Schlegel joins The GIPS Cast to discuss: 

• Community partners that help shape student experiences 
• The importance of Career-Technical Education
• How Islander students are finishing high school ahead of the curve 

Because it's about providing real-world opportunities for students to discover not just what they want to do but who they want to be. 

--

GUEST: 
Greg Schlegel - GISH Academy of Medical Sciences & Education Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2536education,gipscast,gish,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,nebraska,principal,principals,publicschools,school,schools,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/staffing-updates-for-2025-26-w-matt-fisher-brian-kort--67254187
That’s a sentiment our Superintendent, Mr. Fisher, repeats often.  Our students are the “why”; our educators are the “how”.

For this podcast conversation, we go deeper on the “how” of it all — specifically, the efforts GIPS are putting into staffing and district culture.

Embarking on the start of the 2025-26 school year, GIPS finds itself on more solid ground in the ways of staffing than we have in recent years. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Brian Kort, GIPS Recruiting & Retention Coordinator, join the podcast to share about the positive momentum we’re seeing for staffing, and what we’re focusing on for staff support going forward.

Along the way, they discuss better staff retention, hiring success for new educators, and launching a new program designed to empower our support staff to become fully certified teachers.

Because it's about continuing to find the best teachers to fill our classrooms AND to keep the great people we already have.

--

GUESTS: 
Matt Fisher - GIPS Superintendent
Brian Kort - GIPS Recruiting & Retention Coordinator  

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67254187Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsOur students are the “why”; Our Educators are the “How”. That’s a sentiment our Superintendent, Mr. Fisher, repeats often.  Our students are the “why”; our educators are the “how”. For this podcast conversation, we go deeper on the “how” of it all —...
That’s a sentiment our Superintendent, Mr. Fisher, repeats often.  Our students are the “why”; our educators are the “how”.

For this podcast conversation, we go deeper on the “how” of it all — specifically, the efforts GIPS are putting into staffing and district culture.

Embarking on the start of the 2025-26 school year, GIPS finds itself on more solid ground in the ways of staffing than we have in recent years. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Brian Kort, GIPS Recruiting & Retention Coordinator, join the podcast to share about the positive momentum we’re seeing for staffing, and what we’re focusing on for staff support going forward.

Along the way, they discuss better staff retention, hiring success for new educators, and launching a new program designed to empower our support staff to become fully certified teachers.

Because it's about continuing to find the best teachers to fill our classrooms AND to keep the great people we already have.

--

GUESTS: 
Matt Fisher - GIPS Superintendent
Brian Kort - GIPS Recruiting & Retention Coordinator  

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2011education,elementaryschool,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-math-curriculum-count-w-dr-danielle-buhrman-andrea-hermance-danielle-dudo--67065227
Math deserves a better reputation. 

Dr. Buhrman, GIPS Math Curriculum & Academic Coach Coordinator, is on a mission to give Math the spotlight it deserves.  And it starts in every GIPS classroom featuring Math education with one simple concept:  We Are Mathematicians.

But she’s not along in that mission.  Dr. Buhrman is supported by a number of incredible teachers across the district to help champion math education making it meaningful and enriching for all students.

And that’s where we enter the conversation.

Dr. Buhrman and two other Math-minded Elementary Educators, Danielle Dudo & Andrea Hermance, join The GPS Cast to share the details on our upcoming Math curriculum pilot, how the district is navigating the need to update Math materials, and why GIPS is committed to give Math a better reputation.

Because it's all about teaching students that everything is figure-out-able. 

--

GUESTS: 
Dr. Danielle Buhrman - GIPS Math Curriculum & Academic Coach Coordinator
Andrea Hermance - Lincoln Elementary Academic Support Coach
Danielle Dudo - Newell Elementary 3rd Grade Teacher 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67065227Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We have to be analyzers and problem solvers. So the 'how' that we're trying to create [with math] really help support teachers in the experiences we need to put in front of kids so that they [students] are having to grapple with that a little bit." ...
Math deserves a better reputation. 

Dr. Buhrman, GIPS Math Curriculum & Academic Coach Coordinator, is on a mission to give Math the spotlight it deserves.  And it starts in every GIPS classroom featuring Math education with one simple concept:  We Are Mathematicians.

But she’s not along in that mission.  Dr. Buhrman is supported by a number of incredible teachers across the district to help champion math education making it meaningful and enriching for all students.

And that’s where we enter the conversation.

Dr. Buhrman and two other Math-minded Elementary Educators, Danielle Dudo & Andrea Hermance, join The GPS Cast to share the details on our upcoming Math curriculum pilot, how the district is navigating the need to update Math materials, and why GIPS is committed to give Math a better reputation.

Because it's all about teaching students that everything is figure-out-able. 

--

GUESTS: 
Dr. Danielle Buhrman - GIPS Math Curriculum & Academic Coach Coordinator
Andrea Hermance - Lincoln Elementary Academic Support Coach
Danielle Dudo - Newell Elementary 3rd Grade Teacher 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2542education,gips,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,ilovepublicschools,learning,math,matheducation,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-history-thru-inclusion-with-unified-track-field-w-andrea-hill--66586914
Andrea Hill has been leading the Unified Track & Field Team for seven years at Grand Island Senior High, and, well, she’s on a mission.  And she’s got the whole school and the whole GIPS district behind her.

Coach Hill has been a fierce advocate for student inclusion, empathy, and connection through the medium of Unified athletics.  In those seven years, the student athletes and student partners on the GISH Unified Track Team has broken new ground as Unified sports has grown across Nebraska.

Most notably, for the first time in school and state history, the GISH Girls Unified Track & Field Team brought home a sweep of Gold Medals in all four events at the NSAA State Meet. 

Coach Hill joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share her passion for Unified sports and where she sees the GISH Unified Track & Field Team continuing to make history. 

Because when we lean into inclusion, everyone wins. 

--

GUEST: 
Andrea Hill - GISH Unified Track & Field Coach

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66586914Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:37:32 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"I see [our students] building long, lasting friendships, a sense of belonging to something very special; boosting their self confidence. Each one of my athletes and partners together, they value each other's talents and skills." Andrea Hill has been...
Andrea Hill has been leading the Unified Track & Field Team for seven years at Grand Island Senior High, and, well, she’s on a mission.  And she’s got the whole school and the whole GIPS district behind her.

Coach Hill has been a fierce advocate for student inclusion, empathy, and connection through the medium of Unified athletics.  In those seven years, the student athletes and student partners on the GISH Unified Track Team has broken new ground as Unified sports has grown across Nebraska.

Most notably, for the first time in school and state history, the GISH Girls Unified Track & Field Team brought home a sweep of Gold Medals in all four events at the NSAA State Meet. 

Coach Hill joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share her passion for Unified sports and where she sees the GISH Unified Track & Field Team continuing to make history. 

Because when we lean into inclusion, everyone wins. 

--

GUEST: 
Andrea Hill - GISH Unified Track & Field Coach

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2448education,gips,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschoolsports,learning,nebpreps,nebraska,nsaa,publiceducation,publicschools,specialeducation,teachers,teaching,unifiedsports,unifiedtrackfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/active-learning-in-2nd-grade-w-mrs-thornton--66398175
Mrs. Kari Thornton has been teaching 2nd Grade at Engleman Elementary for 16 years.

Every year Mrs. Thornton aim to make the learning in her classroom an active experience for her students.  Which means building opportunities for students to interact with their classmates with a clear prompt, or students moving to different parts of the classroom for conduct different steps of the learning activities, or partnering for a creative project, and so much more.

It may sound, well active, but it’s all intentional.  Each prompt, each activity, each engagement designed to help reach all students.

Mrs. Thornton joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share how her approach to teaching seeks to keep learning fun and engaging.  

Because it's all about helping students learn and lean into a growth mindset.

--

GUEST: 
Kari Thornton - 2nd Grade Teacher, Engleman Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66398175Wed, 04 Jun 2025 17:22:38 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Number one for me is building relationships with my students... That right there is my number one classroom strategy — just building relationships and having conversation with my students." Mrs. Kari Thornton has been teaching 2nd Grade at Engleman...
Mrs. Kari Thornton has been teaching 2nd Grade at Engleman Elementary for 16 years.

Every year Mrs. Thornton aim to make the learning in her classroom an active experience for her students.  Which means building opportunities for students to interact with their classmates with a clear prompt, or students moving to different parts of the classroom for conduct different steps of the learning activities, or partnering for a creative project, and so much more.

It may sound, well active, but it’s all intentional.  Each prompt, each activity, each engagement designed to help reach all students.

Mrs. Thornton joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share how her approach to teaching seeks to keep learning fun and engaging.  

Because it's all about helping students learn and lean into a growth mindset.

--

GUEST: 
Kari Thornton - 2nd Grade Teacher, Engleman Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>13212ndgrade,education,elementaryeducation,elementaryschool,englemanelementary,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/helping-students-find-their-voice-thru-middle-school-speech-w-kathryn-zeller--66080338 
It’s not just an activity — it’s students finding their voice.

At least, that’s what Mrs. Zeller will tell you.

Kathryn Zeller has been a teacher at Westridge Middle School for a number of years.  And anyone who’s stepped into her classroom will tell you — she’s passionate, she’s creative, and she will find a way to reach every student.

That’s the common theme for Mrs. Zeller’s passion project — the Westridge Middle School Speech Team.

Mrs. Zeller joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share why Middle School Speech is deeply connected to helping students discover who they are and how to share themselves confidently with the world.

Throughout the conversation, Mrs. Zeller shares her focus of giving students a chance to participate in something; helping them find a sense of belonging at school; and having fun. 

A few Westridge students — Kingleigh, Kyra, & Grace — pop-in to share their voices and experiences too.  All of it, of course, rooted in making friends and crafting cool speeches along the way.

Because it all comes back to fostering creativity and empowering student voices.

--

GUESTS: 
Kathryn Zeller - Teacher & Speech Coach, Westridge Middle School
Kingleigh, Kyra, & Grace - Westridge 8th Graders & Speech-ers

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66080338Wed, 14 May 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We do it [teach] because we care and we want to raise really great humans to make a really great world."   It’s not just an activity — it’s students finding their voice. At least, that’s what Mrs. Zeller will tell you. Kathryn Zeller has been a... 
It’s not just an activity — it’s students finding their voice.

At least, that’s what Mrs. Zeller will tell you.

Kathryn Zeller has been a teacher at Westridge Middle School for a number of years.  And anyone who’s stepped into her classroom will tell you — she’s passionate, she’s creative, and she will find a way to reach every student.

That’s the common theme for Mrs. Zeller’s passion project — the Westridge Middle School Speech Team.

Mrs. Zeller joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share why Middle School Speech is deeply connected to helping students discover who they are and how to share themselves confidently with the world.

Throughout the conversation, Mrs. Zeller shares her focus of giving students a chance to participate in something; helping them find a sense of belonging at school; and having fun. 

A few Westridge students — Kingleigh, Kyra, & Grace — pop-in to share their voices and experiences too.  All of it, of course, rooted in making friends and crafting cool speeches along the way.

Because it all comes back to fostering creativity and empowering student voices.

--

GUESTS: 
Kathryn Zeller - Teacher & Speech Coach, Westridge Middle School
Kingleigh, Kyra, & Grace - Westridge 8th Graders & Speech-ers

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>13378thgrade,education,educator,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,middleschool,nebraska,publicschools,school,schools,speech,speechteam,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-a-culture-of-consistency-for-student-athletes-w-coach-pat-doyle--65695748 
Coach Pat Doyle is the Strength and Conditioning Coach at GISH.  He’s also the Islander Powerlifting Coach.  With over 700 athletes coming through his weight room and working with the strength staff, Coach Doyle has a lot going on.

How does he balance it all?  Consistency.

He joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share why he has the best job in the world.

In just five short years, Coach Doyle — with support of the GISH Administration and the Activities Office — has brought the strength and conditioning program to new heights.  They’ve developed and opened a renovated weightroom which is one of the nicest facilities of its kind in the state.  He’s built strong relationships with student athletes and the program Coaches to cultivate a culture of expectations and excellence.  He’s launched both a Boys and Girls Powerlifting Teams who’ve earned State Championships and National recognition.  And, recently, he earned a state coach of the year honor from NHSSCA.

Because, for the Islanders, it all comes back to consistency.


--

GUEST: 
Pat Doyle - GISH Strength & Conditioning and Power Lifting Coach 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65695748Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:57:08 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"The weight room is just an avenue for how we prepare kids for life."   Coach Pat Doyle is the Strength and Conditioning Coach at GISH.  He’s also the Islander Powerlifting Coach.  With over 700 athletes coming through his weight room and working with... 
Coach Pat Doyle is the Strength and Conditioning Coach at GISH.  He’s also the Islander Powerlifting Coach.  With over 700 athletes coming through his weight room and working with the strength staff, Coach Doyle has a lot going on.

How does he balance it all?  Consistency.

He joins 'The GIPS Cast' to share why he has the best job in the world.

In just five short years, Coach Doyle — with support of the GISH Administration and the Activities Office — has brought the strength and conditioning program to new heights.  They’ve developed and opened a renovated weightroom which is one of the nicest facilities of its kind in the state.  He’s built strong relationships with student athletes and the program Coaches to cultivate a culture of expectations and excellence.  He’s launched both a Boys and Girls Powerlifting Teams who’ve earned State Championships and National recognition.  And, recently, he earned a state coach of the year honor from NHSSCA.

Because, for the Islanders, it all comes back to consistency.


--

GUEST: 
Pat Doyle - GISH Strength & Conditioning and Power Lifting Coach 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>1904consistency,education,gips,gish,gishislanders,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,islanders,nebpreps,powerlifting,publicschools,strength,studentathlete,teachers,teaching,weightliftingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/empowering-beautiful-connections-with-glamourgals-w-alexia-isabel-katherin-angie--65449448
Students are changing the world, and they’re making it happen through the power of connection.
 
And that’s where we meet Alexia Nunez, a Sophomore at Grand Island Senior High and the President of the GISH chapter of 'GlamourGals'.

'GlamourGals' is a national organization that empowers teenagers to make intergenerational connections with folks at Retirement Homes and Assisted Living Facilities thru painting nails and conversations.

Alexia shares her story of researching volunteer opportunities; of discovering 'GlamourGals'; and recruiting three of her best friends — Isabel, Katherin, & Angie — to join her in starting the club.  Together, they've recruited 40+ GISH students to join the cause.

Because with some fresh nail polish, meaningful conversations, and a passion for building connections students can change the world.


--

GUESTS: 
Alexia Nunez - GISH Sophomore & GlamourGals President
Isabel Corona Rodriguez - GISH Sophomore 
Katherin Xicara Ramos - GISH Junior 
Angie De Orta - GISH Sophomore 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65449448Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"It brings me joy to spread the joy."  Students are changing the world, and they’re making it happen through the power of connection.   And that’s where we meet Alexia Nunez, a Sophomore at Grand Island Senior High and the President of the GISH...
Students are changing the world, and they’re making it happen through the power of connection.
 
And that’s where we meet Alexia Nunez, a Sophomore at Grand Island Senior High and the President of the GISH chapter of 'GlamourGals'.

'GlamourGals' is a national organization that empowers teenagers to make intergenerational connections with folks at Retirement Homes and Assisted Living Facilities thru painting nails and conversations.

Alexia shares her story of researching volunteer opportunities; of discovering 'GlamourGals'; and recruiting three of her best friends — Isabel, Katherin, & Angie — to join her in starting the club.  Together, they've recruited 40+ GISH students to join the cause.

Because with some fresh nail polish, meaningful conversations, and a passion for building connections students can change the world.


--

GUESTS: 
Alexia Nunez - GISH Sophomore & GlamourGals President
Isabel Corona Rodriguez - GISH Sophomore 
Katherin Xicara Ramos - GISH Junior 
Angie De Orta - GISH Sophomore 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1732education,gips,gipscast,gish,glamourgals,highschool,nebraska,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-teaching-5th-grade-w-jason-weseman--64862183
Mr. Jason Weseman has been teaching 5th Grade at Howard Elementary for 13 years.

Every year Mr. Weseman sees first-hand how much students grow in just a few months.  Whether it be academically, socially, or in self-confidence, investing in students and making learning personal are what drive his classroom.

Mr. Weseman joined The GIPS Cast to share more about the "art" of teaching 5th Grade.  Specifically to unpack the strategies he uses for student engagement, the importance of adding a variety of approaches in the classroom, why reading Shakespeare in 5th Grade can be fun, and how math equations are like Super Mario World.

Because while teaching is high stakes, it's also high reward. 

--

GUEST: 
Jason Weseman - 5th Grade Teacher, Howard Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64862183Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"I also just love seeing how much my students grow... when you see those kids and where they went in life, and knowing that you played a part in that, that's what keeps you coming back." Mr. Jason Weseman has been teaching 5th Grade at Howard...
Mr. Jason Weseman has been teaching 5th Grade at Howard Elementary for 13 years.

Every year Mr. Weseman sees first-hand how much students grow in just a few months.  Whether it be academically, socially, or in self-confidence, investing in students and making learning personal are what drive his classroom.

Mr. Weseman joined The GIPS Cast to share more about the "art" of teaching 5th Grade.  Specifically to unpack the strategies he uses for student engagement, the importance of adding a variety of approaches in the classroom, why reading Shakespeare in 5th Grade can be fun, and how math equations are like Super Mario World.

Because while teaching is high stakes, it's also high reward. 

--

GUEST: 
Jason Weseman - 5th Grade Teacher, Howard Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1314education,elementaryschool,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,learning,math,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,shakespeare,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/feeding-students-lunch-lady-career-reflections-w-kris-spellman--64706410
In her 27 years with Grand Island Public Schools, Kris Spellman has proudly worn the title, “Lunch Lady”.  Her official job title for nearly three decades has been “Director of Nutrition Services”.  But if you ask her what she does, she’ll smile at you and say, I’m a proud Lunch Lady.

Throughout her career with GIPS, Spellman has served approximately 28,000,000 school lunched — and that's not counting breakfast!

But, true to form, it's not just about school lunches.  For Kris, it’s about supporting the 10,000 students we have across our 19 schools to have food security, to help them stay nourished, to help them thrive and flourish in the classroom. 

She joins The GIPS Cast to reflect on her career, how she's seen the school meal landscape change through the years, and the importance of advocating for students before venturing to her well-earned retirement at the end of the school year. 

Because 28,000,000 meals served as a proud “Lunch Lady” is simply incredible. 

--

GUEST: 
Kris Spellman - GIPS Nutrition Services Director

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64706410Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:05:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We're here for everybody — not just select people... It's a humanity thing. We're here for humanity and I think that's the great thing about public schools. We care about the kids." In her 27 years with Grand Island Public Schools, Kris Spellman has...
In her 27 years with Grand Island Public Schools, Kris Spellman has proudly worn the title, “Lunch Lady”.  Her official job title for nearly three decades has been “Director of Nutrition Services”.  But if you ask her what she does, she’ll smile at you and say, I’m a proud Lunch Lady.

Throughout her career with GIPS, Spellman has served approximately 28,000,000 school lunched — and that's not counting breakfast!

But, true to form, it's not just about school lunches.  For Kris, it’s about supporting the 10,000 students we have across our 19 schools to have food security, to help them stay nourished, to help them thrive and flourish in the classroom. 

She joins The GIPS Cast to reflect on her career, how she's seen the school meal landscape change through the years, and the importance of advocating for students before venturing to her well-earned retirement at the end of the school year. 

Because 28,000,000 meals served as a proud “Lunch Lady” is simply incredible. 

--

GUEST: 
Kris Spellman - GIPS Nutrition Services Director

HOST:
Mitchell Roush - GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2423education,gips,learning,nebraska,publicschools,school,schoollunch,studentlife,students,teachers,teaching,wearegipsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wellness-advocacy-hosa-healthcare-fair-w-megan-stone-aksam-dodban--64346651
Students are capable of accomplishing great things.  Our job as educators is to give them opportunity.

HOSA is a national organization that exists to provide leadership, learning, and service opportunities for students who look to be future professionals in the healthcare field.  HOSA - Future Healthcare Professionals.

We have a HOSA chapter at GISH which is sponsored by one of our English teacher, Dr. Megan Stone.  But what makes Dr. Stone’s approach interesting is how “out of the way” she intends to be.  The GISH HOSA Chapter is designed to be led by students in the GISH Academy of Medical Sciences & Education.

And part of that student empowerment?  Providing a free Healthcare Fair for the community of Grand Island.

Both Dr. Stone, and HOSA Student President, Aksam Dodban, join the GIPS Cast to share about the growth of their annual Healthcare Fair which will be in its third year this year.

At the heart of it all is a deep passion for healthcare advocacy; a desire to see wellness prioritized in our community of Grand Island. 

And that passion is being led by students.

--

GUESTS: 
Dr. Megan Stone - GISH English Teacher
Aksam Dodban - GISH Junior & HOSA Student President 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64346651Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:00:07 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"I just wanted to do something where I could go out and take that information out into the community, or to people that I know that don't have access to that [healthcare resources]." Students are capable of accomplishing great things.  Our job as...
Students are capable of accomplishing great things.  Our job as educators is to give them opportunity.

HOSA is a national organization that exists to provide leadership, learning, and service opportunities for students who look to be future professionals in the healthcare field.  HOSA - Future Healthcare Professionals.

We have a HOSA chapter at GISH which is sponsored by one of our English teacher, Dr. Megan Stone.  But what makes Dr. Stone’s approach interesting is how “out of the way” she intends to be.  The GISH HOSA Chapter is designed to be led by students in the GISH Academy of Medical Sciences & Education.

And part of that student empowerment?  Providing a free Healthcare Fair for the community of Grand Island.

Both Dr. Stone, and HOSA Student President, Aksam Dodban, join the GIPS Cast to share about the growth of their annual Healthcare Fair which will be in its third year this year.

At the heart of it all is a deep passion for healthcare advocacy; a desire to see wellness prioritized in our community of Grand Island. 

And that passion is being led by students.

--

GUESTS: 
Dr. Megan Stone - GISH English Teacher
Aksam Dodban - GISH Junior & HOSA Student President 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2181education,gips,gipscast,gish,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,healthcare,highschool,hosa,leadership,learning,publiceducation,publicschools,school,studentleadership,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-future-of-the-gish-girls-basketball-program-w-chris-ladwig-kathryn-langrehr--63773935
What’s next for Girls Basketball at Grand Island Senior High?

Kathryn Langrehr, GISH Girls Basketball Coach, and Chris Ladwig, GISH Activities Director, join The GIPS Cast to unpack that very question.

Earlier this school year, they made the tough decision that GISH would not be offering a Varsity or JV schedule for this season.

Why?

The short answer is mainly due to numbers.  Back in October, with the season set to start, GISH didn’t have any Junior or Senior student athletes set to go out for the sport.

The long answer, as with most things, is much more nuanced.  But truly, the decision — as difficult as it was to make — was 100% rooted in a commitment to providing meaningful, competitive, fun, and life-enriching experiences for students.  And at the end of the day, sometimes you have to be innovative and — yes — even make a painful decision in order to move forward. 

While the initial decision may have felt like a shock, the intentionality towards supporting student athletes has given the players and coaches reason to be proud today and optimistic about the next few years. 

Because the Islanders aren’t going anywhere — they're building for the future. 

--

GUESTS: 
Chris Ladwig - GISH Activities Director
Kathryn Langrehr - GISH Girls Basketball Coach

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63773935Tue, 21 Jan 2025 08:00:10 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"We're making an environment and creating an environment where collectively, we're lifting it together... It's not about wins and losses. It's not about the can or can't. It's about the hard decision to lift it up as a group." What’s next for Girls...
What’s next for Girls Basketball at Grand Island Senior High?

Kathryn Langrehr, GISH Girls Basketball Coach, and Chris Ladwig, GISH Activities Director, join The GIPS Cast to unpack that very question.

Earlier this school year, they made the tough decision that GISH would not be offering a Varsity or JV schedule for this season.

Why?

The short answer is mainly due to numbers.  Back in October, with the season set to start, GISH didn’t have any Junior or Senior student athletes set to go out for the sport.

The long answer, as with most things, is much more nuanced.  But truly, the decision — as difficult as it was to make — was 100% rooted in a commitment to providing meaningful, competitive, fun, and life-enriching experiences for students.  And at the end of the day, sometimes you have to be innovative and — yes — even make a painful decision in order to move forward. 

While the initial decision may have felt like a shock, the intentionality towards supporting student athletes has given the players and coaches reason to be proud today and optimistic about the next few years. 

Because the Islanders aren’t going anywhere — they're building for the future. 

--

GUESTS: 
Chris Ladwig - GISH Activities Director
Kathryn Langrehr - GISH Girls Basketball Coach

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1946basketball,education,gips,girlsbasketball,gish,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,nebpreps,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welding-building-a-brand-w-bryn-otto-gish-class-of-2022--63682726
Bryn Otto (GISH Class of 2022), has been making a splash in the welding arena and [around the world] on social media ever since high school.

Bryn sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his journey from "settling" for welding as his high school Pathway, to finishing college early thanks to high school dual credits, to a young, international leader in the arena of welding with over 55,000 social media followers. Along the way, he shares his passion for Career Technical Education (CTE) and how sometimes finding one lightbulb moment is all it takes.  

Because building a career you're proud of starts by saying 'yes' to opportunities.

--

GUEST: 
Bryn Otto, GISH Class of 2022

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63682726Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:05:06 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"There's no shame in getting your hands dirty for your money.  I think the trades are great!  I don't want anybody to ever feel discouraged about being a tradesman or tradeswoman." Bryn Otto (GISH Class of 2022), has been making a splash in the...
Bryn Otto (GISH Class of 2022), has been making a splash in the welding arena and [around the world] on social media ever since high school.

Bryn sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his journey from "settling" for welding as his high school Pathway, to finishing college early thanks to high school dual credits, to a young, international leader in the arena of welding with over 55,000 social media followers. Along the way, he shares his passion for Career Technical Education (CTE) and how sometimes finding one lightbulb moment is all it takes.  

Because building a career you're proud of starts by saying 'yes' to opportunities.

--

GUEST: 
Bryn Otto, GISH Class of 2022

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2061cte,education,gips,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teaching,weldingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/learning-how-to-learn-the-science-of-pre-school-w-amber-o-hara-beki-piel--63490608
How do students learn to learn?

For a few hundred students at GIPS, it starts with Pre-School.

Amber O'Hara, Howard Elementary, and Beki Piel, Starr Elementary, are two of the Pre-School Teachers at GIPS.  Both educators join the GIPS Cast to share about the fun taking place in their classrooms but, more importantly, how they empower 4 year old students to be ready for Kindergarten. 

What you’ll hear in the conversation is a window into the science of teaching that goes into helping a child learn how to learn.  From spelling their name, to cutting with scissors, to recognizing shapes, to breaking down syllables, and so much more.

Because in order to be successful [and have fun] in school, students need to know how to learn.

--

GUESTS: 
Amber O'Hara, Pre-School Teacher - Howard Elementary
Beki Piel, Pre-School Teacher - Starr Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63490608Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:00:08 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"There is intentionality behind all of our activities."  How do students learn to learn? For a few hundred students at GIPS, it starts with Pre-School. Amber O'Hara, Howard Elementary, and Beki Piel, Starr Elementary, are two of the Pre-School...
How do students learn to learn?

For a few hundred students at GIPS, it starts with Pre-School.

Amber O'Hara, Howard Elementary, and Beki Piel, Starr Elementary, are two of the Pre-School Teachers at GIPS.  Both educators join the GIPS Cast to share about the fun taking place in their classrooms but, more importantly, how they empower 4 year old students to be ready for Kindergarten. 

What you’ll hear in the conversation is a window into the science of teaching that goes into helping a child learn how to learn.  From spelling their name, to cutting with scissors, to recognizing shapes, to breaking down syllables, and so much more.

Because in order to be successful [and have fun] in school, students need to know how to learn.

--

GUESTS: 
Amber O'Hara, Pre-School Teacher - Howard Elementary
Beki Piel, Pre-School Teacher - Starr Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1470education,gipscast,gipspodcast,grandislandpublicschools,howtoteach,learning,preschool,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gish-senior-launch-completing-the-fafsa-w-gish-counselors-educationquest--63249434 
Grand Island Senior High (GISH) has developed a new Senior Launch Program to help support all graduating Seniors be more confident in venturing to their next chapters after high school.

Specifically, how our dedicated staff at GISH and GearUp help Seniors and their families for complete the FAFSA form.

Starting this school year, the state of Nebraska has a new graduation requirement for all public school districts:  Every graduating Senior must complete the FAFSA form in order to graduate.

As you’ll hear in the following discussion, the FAFSA form isn’t new.  But having it as a graduation requirement is.  So, as forward-thinking educators, our team at GISH & GearUp wanted to take a proactive approach to helping Seniors and their Families navigate this requirement — by helping all graduates better understand the exciting opportunities and choices they have in front of them.  And yes, the FAFSA form helps in that regard quite a bit – especially when considering college opportunities.

With this information being so important, we wanted to provide these conversations in both English and Spanish so we may reach as many families as we can in a helpful way.

This episode will be in English.  We’ve added a second episode to our feed covering the same conversation completely in Spanish as well.
 
Because it's all about empowering students to be College, Career, & Community Ready.

--

GUESTS:  
- Julie Markvicka, GISH Counselor
- Nuria Lemus, EducationQuest


HOST: 
- Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir. 

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63249434Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:15:06 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsPreparing graduates for their next chapter.   Grand Island Senior High (GISH) has developed a new Senior Launch Program to help support all graduating Seniors be more confident in venturing to their next chapters after high school. Specifically, how... 
Grand Island Senior High (GISH) has developed a new Senior Launch Program to help support all graduating Seniors be more confident in venturing to their next chapters after high school.

Specifically, how our dedicated staff at GISH and GearUp help Seniors and their families for complete the FAFSA form.

Starting this school year, the state of Nebraska has a new graduation requirement for all public school districts:  Every graduating Senior must complete the FAFSA form in order to graduate.

As you’ll hear in the following discussion, the FAFSA form isn’t new.  But having it as a graduation requirement is.  So, as forward-thinking educators, our team at GISH & GearUp wanted to take a proactive approach to helping Seniors and their Families navigate this requirement — by helping all graduates better understand the exciting opportunities and choices they have in front of them.  And yes, the FAFSA form helps in that regard quite a bit – especially when considering college opportunities.

With this information being so important, we wanted to provide these conversations in both English and Spanish so we may reach as many families as we can in a helpful way.

This episode will be in English.  We’ve added a second episode to our feed covering the same conversation completely in Spanish as well.
 
Because it's all about empowering students to be College, Career, & Community Ready.

--

GUESTS:  
- Julie Markvicka, GISH Counselor
- Nuria Lemus, EducationQuest


HOST: 
- Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir. 

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1375education,graduates,graduation,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,highschoolcounselors,highschoolgraduation,nebraskaschools,publiceducation,publicschools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lanzamiento-de-gish-para-estudiantes-en-su-ultimo-ano-de-high-school-y-como-completar-la-fafsa--63249347 
Grand Island Senior High ha desarrollado un nuevo Programa de Lanzamiento para Estudiantes de último año para ayudar a que todos los estudiantes que se gradúan tengan más confianza para aventurarse en sus próximos capítulos después de la escuela secundaria.

Específicamente, cómo nuestro personal dedicado en GISH y GearUp ayuda a las personas mayores y sus familias a completar el formulario FAFSA.

A partir de este año escolar, el estado de Nebraska tiene un nuevo requisito de graduación para todos los distritos escolares públicos: cada estudiante de último año debe completar el formulario FAFSA para poder graduarse.

Como escuchará en la siguiente discusión, el formulario FAFSA no es nuevo, pero sí lo es que sea un requisito para graduarse. Por eso, como educadores con visión de futuro, nuestro equipo de GISH y GearUp quería adoptar un enfoque proactivo para ayudar a los estudiantes de último año y a sus familias a cumplir con este requisito, ayudando a todos los graduados a comprender mejor las emocionantes oportunidades y opciones que tienen por delante. Y sí, el formulario FAFSA ayuda bastante en ese sentido, especialmente cuando se consideran las oportunidades universitarias.

Siendo esta información tan importante, queríamos ofrecer estas conversaciones tanto en inglés como en español para que podamos llegar a tantas familias como sea posible de una manera útil.

Este episodio será en español. Hemos agregado un segundo episodio a nuestro canal que cubre la misma conversación completamente en inglés también.
 
Porque se trata de capacitar a los estudiantes para que estén preparados para la universidad, su carrera y la comunidad.

--

HUÉSPEDES:
- Stacy Quinteros, Consejera de GISH
- Nuria Lemus, EducationQuest

ANFITRIÓN:
- Mayra Ramallo, asesora financiera universitaria de GISH GearUp

--

Facebook: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63249347Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:00:07 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsPreparando a los graduados para su próximo capítulo.   Grand Island Senior High ha desarrollado un nuevo Programa de Lanzamiento para Estudiantes de último año para ayudar a que todos los estudiantes que se gradúan tengan más confianza para... 
Grand Island Senior High ha desarrollado un nuevo Programa de Lanzamiento para Estudiantes de último año para ayudar a que todos los estudiantes que se gradúan tengan más confianza para aventurarse en sus próximos capítulos después de la escuela secundaria.

Específicamente, cómo nuestro personal dedicado en GISH y GearUp ayuda a las personas mayores y sus familias a completar el formulario FAFSA.

A partir de este año escolar, el estado de Nebraska tiene un nuevo requisito de graduación para todos los distritos escolares públicos: cada estudiante de último año debe completar el formulario FAFSA para poder graduarse.

Como escuchará en la siguiente discusión, el formulario FAFSA no es nuevo, pero sí lo es que sea un requisito para graduarse. Por eso, como educadores con visión de futuro, nuestro equipo de GISH y GearUp quería adoptar un enfoque proactivo para ayudar a los estudiantes de último año y a sus familias a cumplir con este requisito, ayudando a todos los graduados a comprender mejor las emocionantes oportunidades y opciones que tienen por delante. Y sí, el formulario FAFSA ayuda bastante en ese sentido, especialmente cuando se consideran las oportunidades universitarias.

Siendo esta información tan importante, queríamos ofrecer estas conversaciones tanto en inglés como en español para que podamos llegar a tantas familias como sea posible de una manera útil.

Este episodio será en español. Hemos agregado un segundo episodio a nuestro canal que cubre la misma conversación completamente en inglés también.
 
Porque se trata de capacitar a los estudiantes para que estén preparados para la universidad, su carrera y la comunidad.

--

HUÉSPEDES:
- Stacy Quinteros, Consejera de GISH
- Nuria Lemus, EducationQuest

ANFITRIÓN:
- Mayra Ramallo, asesora financiera universitaria de GISH GearUp

--

Facebook: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>718collegeprep,education,graduation,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-heart-for-teaching-celebrating-students-w-michelle-thorne-wasmer-elementary--62792738
34 years deep in public education and Mrs. Thorne still lives that truth every day. 

Mrs. Michelle Thorne, Academic Support Coach at Wasmer Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share why teaching is the best way to change the world.  She speaks to the importance of welcoming all students while also providing consistent expectations and how she's seen that approach impact thousands of scholars.  Thorne also reflects on how her unique role allows her to take part in the daily passion of collaborative teaching and mentor staff all throughout the school.  And what the honor of being named 2024 GIPS Specialist of the Year means to her. 

Because it's all about daring to believe that students — thru the influence of dedicated teachers — can achieve great things. 

--

GUEST: 
Michelle Thorne, Academic Support Coach at Wasmer Elementary School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62792738Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:00:08 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"I really believe that we can change the world one child at a time." 34 years deep in public education and Mrs. Thorne still lives that truth every day.  Mrs. Michelle Thorne, Academic Support Coach at Wasmer Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share...
34 years deep in public education and Mrs. Thorne still lives that truth every day. 

Mrs. Michelle Thorne, Academic Support Coach at Wasmer Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share why teaching is the best way to change the world.  She speaks to the importance of welcoming all students while also providing consistent expectations and how she's seen that approach impact thousands of scholars.  Thorne also reflects on how her unique role allows her to take part in the daily passion of collaborative teaching and mentor staff all throughout the school.  And what the honor of being named 2024 GIPS Specialist of the Year means to her. 

Because it's all about daring to believe that students — thru the influence of dedicated teachers — can achieve great things. 

--

GUEST: 
Michelle Thorne, Academic Support Coach at Wasmer Elementary School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1986coaching,education,elementaryeducation,elementaryschool,gips,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inspiring-kids-impacting-community-one-dance-at-a-time-w-nicole-hicken-gish-class-of-2006--62618155
Nicole Hicken (GISH Class of 2006), has found a way to make a positive impact across a community through the power of dance. 

Nicole sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of teaching summer dance lessons as a teen in her parents' basement to launching Studio N Dance Center which serves 280 students. Along the way, she salutes the GIPS teachers who inspired her and speaks to the power of self-expression through the Fine Arts. 

Because it's more than just dance — it's about discovering who you are and what you love. 

--

GUEST: 
Nicole Hicken, (GISH Class of 2006) Owner - Studio N Dance Center

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62618155Tue, 05 Nov 2024 07:00:02 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"My hope for my kiddos is to jump out for those dreams. Don't give up hope when things get tough. Keep going, keep trying." Nicole Hicken (GISH Class of 2006), has found a way to make a positive impact across a community through the power of dance. ...
Nicole Hicken (GISH Class of 2006), has found a way to make a positive impact across a community through the power of dance. 

Nicole sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of teaching summer dance lessons as a teen in her parents' basement to launching Studio N Dance Center which serves 280 students. Along the way, she salutes the GIPS teachers who inspired her and speaks to the power of self-expression through the Fine Arts. 

Because it's more than just dance — it's about discovering who you are and what you love. 

--

GUEST: 
Nicole Hicken, (GISH Class of 2006) Owner - Studio N Dance Center

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>1455dance,dancestudio,education,gips,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/planting-seeds-for-success-thru-alternative-programs-w-dr-ken-defrank--62462690
Dr. Ken DeFrank is more than an educator, he's an advocate for students.

Dr. DeFrank, Principal of Success Academy, joins The GIPS Cast to share his philosophy of education and why alternative learning programs are vital to any public school system.  He shares his experiences of more than 20 years in public education dedicated to building systems and leanring environments for students in need.  He also unpacks his passion for personalized learning, the rise of student anxiety, the power of compassion, and playing the long game for building relationships with every student.

Because it's all about planting seeds and fostering healthy learning environments. 

* TRIGGER WARNING *
The conversation you’ll hear on this episode touches briefly on a few topics that may be triggering for some listeners.  This episode contains conversation on things such as anxiety, suicide ideation, psychosis, emotional trauma, and seeking support for those struggles.

Please know it is our intention to discuss these topics with sensitivity and empathy.  We at GIPS want to do our part to normalize empathetic conversations around mental health and wellness.

--

GUEST: 
Dr. Ken DeFrank, Success Academy Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62462690Tue, 22 Oct 2024 13:11:42 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Opportunity and chances. That's what we're here for. We're here to remove obstacles; we're here to provide opportunities." Dr. Ken DeFrank is more than an educator, he's an advocate for students. Dr. DeFrank, Principal of Success Academy, joins The...
Dr. Ken DeFrank is more than an educator, he's an advocate for students.

Dr. DeFrank, Principal of Success Academy, joins The GIPS Cast to share his philosophy of education and why alternative learning programs are vital to any public school system.  He shares his experiences of more than 20 years in public education dedicated to building systems and leanring environments for students in need.  He also unpacks his passion for personalized learning, the rise of student anxiety, the power of compassion, and playing the long game for building relationships with every student.

Because it's all about planting seeds and fostering healthy learning environments. 

* TRIGGER WARNING *
The conversation you’ll hear on this episode touches briefly on a few topics that may be triggering for some listeners.  This episode contains conversation on things such as anxiety, suicide ideation, psychosis, emotional trauma, and seeking support for those struggles.

Please know it is our intention to discuss these topics with sensitivity and empathy.  We at GIPS want to do our part to normalize empathetic conversations around mental health and wellness.

--

GUEST: 
Dr. Ken DeFrank, Success Academy Principal 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2848alternativelearning,education,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-community-returning-home-w-ashley-parra-valencia-gish-class-of-2020--62312413
Ashley Parra Valencia (GISH Class of 2020), recently return to Grand Island for one reason:  To make a positive impact in the community that gave so much to her. 

Ashley sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of EL student, to high school student athlete and performer, to Advertising major at UNL, to Community Outreach Coordinator at the Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity. Along the way, she shares her passion for community, shout-outs her favorite teachers, and affirms why public education is vital to Grand Island. 

Because the journey of becoming a lifelong learner starts at school. 

--

GUEST: 
Ashley Parra Valencia, GISH Class of 2020

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62312413Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:39:50 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"My teachers really created that support, that backbone, support for me, and encouraged me to know, it's okay to make mistakes. So for that, I really thank my elementary teachers." Ashley Parra Valencia (GISH Class of 2020), recently return to Grand...
Ashley Parra Valencia (GISH Class of 2020), recently return to Grand Island for one reason:  To make a positive impact in the community that gave so much to her. 

Ashley sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of EL student, to high school student athlete and performer, to Advertising major at UNL, to Community Outreach Coordinator at the Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity. Along the way, she shares her passion for community, shout-outs her favorite teachers, and affirms why public education is vital to Grand Island. 

Because the journey of becoming a lifelong learner starts at school. 

--

GUEST: 
Ashley Parra Valencia, GISH Class of 2020

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>2411education,gipscast,highschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publichighschool,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-a-culture-of-positivity-for-students-staff-w-nate-balcom-newell-elementary--62111826
That's why Mr. Balcom believes in the power of public education. 

Mr. Nate Balcom, Principal at Newell Elementary School, joins The GIPS Cast to share his committment to cultivating a positive culture for all – students, staff, and families.  He shares his experience going from Media Integration Specialists to a Building Principal.  Balcom also reflects on how staff and students came together after losing their school playground to an unfortunate fire.  And what the honor of being named 2024 GIPS Administrator of the Year means to him. 

Because it's all about doing what we can every day to bring our best for our students. 

--

GUEST: 
Nate Balcom, Principal at Newell Elementary School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62111826Thu, 26 Sep 2024 06:30:01 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"Here within the walls of this public school is where the American dream can really begin for people."  That's why Mr. Balcom believes in the power of public education.  Mr. Nate Balcom, Principal at Newell Elementary School, joins The GIPS Cast to...
That's why Mr. Balcom believes in the power of public education. 

Mr. Nate Balcom, Principal at Newell Elementary School, joins The GIPS Cast to share his committment to cultivating a positive culture for all – students, staff, and families.  He shares his experience going from Media Integration Specialists to a Building Principal.  Balcom also reflects on how staff and students came together after losing their school playground to an unfortunate fire.  And what the honor of being named 2024 GIPS Administrator of the Year means to him. 

Because it's all about doing what we can every day to bring our best for our students. 

--

GUEST: 
Nate Balcom, Principal at Newell Elementary School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>1484education,elementaryschool,gipscast,grandislandpublicschools,nebraska,nebraskaschools,principal,publiceducation,schooladministrator,schoolprincipal,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2024-25-gips-budget-updates-w-matt-fisher-virgil-harden--61328141
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, join The GIPS Cast again to share an in-depth look at the 2024-25 district budget. 

Throughout the conversation they share how nearly 80% of the general fund budget is dedicated to our staff, why GIPS will be lowering its tax levy for the second-straight year, and why school budgeting looks differently from year to year. 

Because it's about ensuring we're honoring our committment to our students. 

--

GUESTS: 
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent
Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

WEBSITE:  https://www.gips.org/
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

#WeAreGIPS ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61328141Tue, 10 Sep 2024 20:06:21 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsAnother school budget season is here!   Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, join The GIPS Cast again to share an in-depth look at the 2024-25 district budget.  Throughout the conversation they share how nearly 80% of the...
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, join The GIPS Cast again to share an in-depth look at the 2024-25 district budget. 

Throughout the conversation they share how nearly 80% of the general fund budget is dedicated to our staff, why GIPS will be lowering its tax levy for the second-straight year, and why school budgeting looks differently from year to year. 

Because it's about ensuring we're honoring our committment to our students. 

--

GUESTS: 
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent
Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

WEBSITE:  https://www.gips.org/
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

#WeAreGIPS ]]>2692budget,education,gips,gipscast,publicschools,school,schools,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inspiring-lifelong-learning-thru-u-s-history-w-tyler-madison-walnut-middle-school--61166747
That's Mr. Madison's philosophy — sparking curiosity so the learning continues long after you've walked out of his classroom.

Mr. Tyler Madison, U.S. History Teacher (8th Grade) at Walnut Middle School, joins The GIPS Cast to share his passion for bringing history to life for students.  He recounts how the Walnut D.C. Diplomats program has grown to a year long community-based endeavor focusing on student leadership development.  Also, he reflects on the recent honor of being named 2024 GIPS Middle School Teacher of the Year.  

Because it all comes back to one thing each day... giving students an opportunity to be great. 

--

GUEST: 
Tyler Madison, U.S. History Teacher at Walnut Middle School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61166747Tue, 27 Aug 2024 07:00:02 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"I want you to love learning when you leave my class." That's Mr. Madison's philosophy — sparking curiosity so the learning continues long after you've walked out of his classroom. Mr. Tyler Madison, U.S. History Teacher (8th Grade) at Walnut Middle...
That's Mr. Madison's philosophy — sparking curiosity so the learning continues long after you've walked out of his classroom.

Mr. Tyler Madison, U.S. History Teacher (8th Grade) at Walnut Middle School, joins The GIPS Cast to share his passion for bringing history to life for students.  He recounts how the Walnut D.C. Diplomats program has grown to a year long community-based endeavor focusing on student leadership development.  Also, he reflects on the recent honor of being named 2024 GIPS Middle School Teacher of the Year.  

Because it all comes back to one thing each day... giving students an opportunity to be great. 

--

GUEST: 
Tyler Madison, U.S. History Teacher at Walnut Middle School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1712education,grandislandpublicschools,history,middleschool,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,socialstudies,teacheroftheyear,teachers,teaching,thegipscast,unitedstateshistory,ushistoryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/empowering-early-childhood-literacy-w-megan-ahrens-jocelyn-bloom-irene-cuellar--60867382
Three of our Educators, Megan Ahrens, Jocelyn Bloom, & Irene Cuellar, joined the podcast to unpack that huge question.  Specifically for Early Childhood Literacy.

Throughout the conversation, they share about the important work they're doing with the Kindergarten - 2nd Grade English Language Arts Summer Task Force.  As part of the task force, these Educators work alongside about 20 of their colleagues to map out Literacy efforts for all Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade classrooms at GIPS. 

They shared their passion for teaching, highlighted understanding the difference between Reading and Literacy, why we keep showing-up every day for our students, and how much work goes into planning curriculum resources and support for hundreds of teachers across 14 Elementary schools. 

Because every student deserves access to high-quality learning. 

--

GUESTS: 
Megan Ahrens, GIPS PK-5 ELA Curriculum & MTSS Coordinator
Jocelyn Bloom, 1st Grade Teacher at Shoemaker Elementary
Irene Cuellar, Kindergarten Teacher at Gates Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60867382Wed, 31 Jul 2024 06:00:04 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do we support teachers to teach students? Three of our Educators, Megan Ahrens, Jocelyn Bloom, & Irene Cuellar, joined the podcast to unpack that huge question.  Specifically for Early Childhood Literacy. Throughout the conversation, they...
Three of our Educators, Megan Ahrens, Jocelyn Bloom, & Irene Cuellar, joined the podcast to unpack that huge question.  Specifically for Early Childhood Literacy.

Throughout the conversation, they share about the important work they're doing with the Kindergarten - 2nd Grade English Language Arts Summer Task Force.  As part of the task force, these Educators work alongside about 20 of their colleagues to map out Literacy efforts for all Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade classrooms at GIPS. 

They shared their passion for teaching, highlighted understanding the difference between Reading and Literacy, why we keep showing-up every day for our students, and how much work goes into planning curriculum resources and support for hundreds of teachers across 14 Elementary schools. 

Because every student deserves access to high-quality learning. 

--

GUESTS: 
Megan Ahrens, GIPS PK-5 ELA Curriculum & MTSS Coordinator
Jocelyn Bloom, 1st Grade Teacher at Shoemaker Elementary
Irene Cuellar, Kindergarten Teacher at Gates Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>17061stgrade,2ndgrade,education,ela,elementaryeducation,elementaryschool,englishlanguagearts,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,kindergarten,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/preparing-for-the-2024-25-school-year-w-principals-kayla-wichman-jessica-schroeder--60642832
Two of our school Principals, Jessica Schroeder from Howard Elementary and Kayla Wichman from Westridge Middle School, joined the podcast to answer that very question.

Throughout the conversation, they share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the large number of details, tasks, and plans that a school Principal tackles before kicking-off another year of learning. 

Whether it is lunch period times, class schedules for students, school culture initiatives, improvement plans, or updating posters for common areas – no job is too small for our building leaders.

Because every student and family deserves to feel like they belong at school.

--

GUESTS: 
Kayla Wichman, Westridge Middle School Principal
Jessica Schroeder, Howard Elementary Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60642832Tue, 09 Jul 2024 14:14:09 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do we prepare for a new school year? Two of our school Principals, Jessica Schroeder from Howard Elementary and Kayla Wichman from Westridge Middle School, joined the podcast to answer that very question. Throughout the conversation, they share...
Two of our school Principals, Jessica Schroeder from Howard Elementary and Kayla Wichman from Westridge Middle School, joined the podcast to answer that very question.

Throughout the conversation, they share a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the large number of details, tasks, and plans that a school Principal tackles before kicking-off another year of learning. 

Whether it is lunch period times, class schedules for students, school culture initiatives, improvement plans, or updating posters for common areas – no job is too small for our building leaders.

Because every student and family deserves to feel like they belong at school.

--

GUESTS: 
Kayla Wichman, Westridge Middle School Principal
Jessica Schroeder, Howard Elementary Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1665education,elementaryschool,grandisland,grandislandnebraska,grandislandpublicschools,leadership,middleschool,nebraska,principals,publiceducation,publicschool,school,schooladministration,schoolprincipal,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/favorite-school-year-moments-budget-updates-looking-to-2024-25-w-matt-fisher-superintendent--60445094
Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, joins The GIPS Cast to do just that.  Along the way he shares insight on how the district came together throughout the necessary budget reduction process, important takeaways from our five-year state accreditation visit, and how our people remain the anchor for all we do.

Looking ahead to the 2024-25 school year, he forecasts a season of simplified focus and continuous growth for our students. 

Because kids can. 

--

GUEST: 
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60445094Thu, 20 Jun 2024 06:05:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsBefore we close the book on the year, it's good to take a moment and reflect. Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, joins The GIPS Cast to do just that.  Along the way he shares insight on how the district came together throughout the necessary...
Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, joins The GIPS Cast to do just that.  Along the way he shares insight on how the district came together throughout the necessary budget reduction process, important takeaways from our five-year state accreditation visit, and how our people remain the anchor for all we do.

Looking ahead to the 2024-25 school year, he forecasts a season of simplified focus and continuous growth for our students. 

Because kids can. 

--

GUEST: 
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent 

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1774education,elementaryschool,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,instruction,middleschool,nebraska,nebraskaeducation,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-vision-for-grand-island-becoming-mayor-for-a-day-w-saybel-raez-almaguer-walnut-middle-school--60270718
What’s more, a handful of our GIPS 6th Grade Scholars found their voices showcased on our community’s biggest stage.

Why?

Because they leaned into their creativity and were bold enough to share their vision for our community.

Earlier this Spring, The Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Grand Island approached us at GIPS asking if we’d be interested in participating in a new student-focused endeavor they hoped could become an annual event.  They called it the, “Grand Island 6th Grade Mayor for a Day Essay Contest”.

City 6th Graders could submit, at no cost, a 400-word essay answering two questions:

1. What do I love most about Grand Island?
2. What changes would you make by the year 2030?

Truly a fun exercise designed to amplify area student voices.

As a result, Grand Island Public Schools is pleased to share that out of a field of nearly 90 submissions, GIPS students claimed three of the top eight essay placements with an additional one an honorable mention.

And most notably, one of our own 6th Graders, Saybel Raez Almaguer from Walnut Middle School, was the grand, overall winner.

His prize?

He gets to be “Mayor for a Day” later this month alongside Grand Island Mayor, Roger Steele.
But what’s even more impressive was Saybel’s essay itself, his selfless approach to casting a vision for his home community, and how he seeks to support all people in feeling welcome and supported.

In this episode, Saybel shares his story and reads his full award-winning essay. 

Because our students, if we let them, will help show us the way.

--

GUEST: 
Saybel Raez Almaguer, Walnut Middle School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60270718Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:42:33 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsThere is power in student voices. What’s more, a handful of our GIPS 6th Grade Scholars found their voices showcased on our community’s biggest stage. Why? Because they leaned into their creativity and were bold enough to share their vision for our...
What’s more, a handful of our GIPS 6th Grade Scholars found their voices showcased on our community’s biggest stage.

Why?

Because they leaned into their creativity and were bold enough to share their vision for our community.

Earlier this Spring, The Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Grand Island approached us at GIPS asking if we’d be interested in participating in a new student-focused endeavor they hoped could become an annual event.  They called it the, “Grand Island 6th Grade Mayor for a Day Essay Contest”.

City 6th Graders could submit, at no cost, a 400-word essay answering two questions:

1. What do I love most about Grand Island?
2. What changes would you make by the year 2030?

Truly a fun exercise designed to amplify area student voices.

As a result, Grand Island Public Schools is pleased to share that out of a field of nearly 90 submissions, GIPS students claimed three of the top eight essay placements with an additional one an honorable mention.

And most notably, one of our own 6th Graders, Saybel Raez Almaguer from Walnut Middle School, was the grand, overall winner.

His prize?

He gets to be “Mayor for a Day” later this month alongside Grand Island Mayor, Roger Steele.
But what’s even more impressive was Saybel’s essay itself, his selfless approach to casting a vision for his home community, and how he seeks to support all people in feeling welcome and supported.

In this episode, Saybel shares his story and reads his full award-winning essay. 

Because our students, if we let them, will help show us the way.

--

GUEST: 
Saybel Raez Almaguer, Walnut Middle School

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>754education,gipscast,grandisland,mayor,middleschool,nebraska,nebraskaschools,publiceducation,publicschools,ruralnebraska,school,smalltown,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holocaust-education-writing-on-moral-courage-w-owen-williams-gish-junior--60108278
Owen Williams, a Junior student and football player at Grand Island Senior High, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on why writing about the holocaust was an important assignment in Mrs. Butters' class.  Additionally, he shares how Irena Sendler, a social worker in the Polish Underground Resistance rescued 2,500 Jewish children from Warsaw, became the focus of his essay on 'Moral Courage'.  Williams also shares how the writing process changed him for the better.

The Institute of Holocaust Education awarded Owen with the top honor in their annual essay contest on 'Moral Courage'.  Out of a field of nearly 400 student essays from across Nebraska, Owen's essay helped him become GIPS' first-ever winner. 

Because no matter how small it may be, we remember that doing the right thing is still the right thing.

--

GUEST: 
Owen Williams, GISH Junior

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60108278Tue, 21 May 2024 06:00:04 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWe write about tragic history so we don't repeat it. Owen Williams, a Junior student and football player at Grand Island Senior High, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on why writing about the holocaust was an important assignment in Mrs. Butters'...
Owen Williams, a Junior student and football player at Grand Island Senior High, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on why writing about the holocaust was an important assignment in Mrs. Butters' class.  Additionally, he shares how Irena Sendler, a social worker in the Polish Underground Resistance rescued 2,500 Jewish children from Warsaw, became the focus of his essay on 'Moral Courage'.  Williams also shares how the writing process changed him for the better.

The Institute of Holocaust Education awarded Owen with the top honor in their annual essay contest on 'Moral Courage'.  Out of a field of nearly 400 student essays from across Nebraska, Owen's essay helped him become GIPS' first-ever winner. 

Because no matter how small it may be, we remember that doing the right thing is still the right thing.

--

GUEST: 
Owen Williams, GISH Junior

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ 
]]>1321education,englishclass,essay,grandisland,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,holocaust,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schools,teachers,teaching,writingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/3rd-grade-authors-zoo-projects-w-breanna-salinas-alison-zitterkopf-tonia-schmall-starr-elementary--59913646
For the Starr Elementary 3rd Grade Teaching team, curriculum is just the starting point.  Breanna Salinas, Alison Zitterkopf, and Tonia Schmall join The GIPS Cast to share how they brought their collective creativity to the Animal Science unit for their students this year. 

Along the way they share how CKLA curriculum connects to science; how students researched and studied an animal during the unit; the story behind bringing all Starr 3rd Graders to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo; and how they self-published a book full of student reports and illustrations.

We even hear from a few 3rd Grade scholars too!

Because it's about bringing learning to life for every student.

--

GUESTS: 
Breanna Salinas, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary
Alison Zitterkopf, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary
Tonia Schmall, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59913646Wed, 08 May 2024 05:07:13 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsAnimals, science, early childhood literacy, and writing a book! For the Starr Elementary 3rd Grade Teaching team, curriculum is just the starting point.  Breanna Salinas, Alison Zitterkopf, and Tonia Schmall join The GIPS Cast to share how they...
For the Starr Elementary 3rd Grade Teaching team, curriculum is just the starting point.  Breanna Salinas, Alison Zitterkopf, and Tonia Schmall join The GIPS Cast to share how they brought their collective creativity to the Animal Science unit for their students this year. 

Along the way they share how CKLA curriculum connects to science; how students researched and studied an animal during the unit; the story behind bringing all Starr 3rd Graders to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo; and how they self-published a book full of student reports and illustrations.

We even hear from a few 3rd Grade scholars too!

Because it's about bringing learning to life for every student.

--

GUESTS: 
Breanna Salinas, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary
Alison Zitterkopf, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary
Tonia Schmall, 3rd Grade Teacher - Starr Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1237animalscience,earlychildhoodeducation,education,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,learners,literacy,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschool,school,students,teachers,teaching,thegipscast,thirdgrade,zoofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reflecting-on-a-career-in-education-w-mrs-cindy-wells--59644916
Mrs. Cindy Wells, Grand Island Senior High Activities Director, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on the countless students and staff she's supported through 43 years in public education.  Set to retire at the end of this school year, Wells shares her favorite memories, the "day-in-the-life" of an Activities Director, and how it all comes back to connecting with kids.  Through it all, she finds herself filled with gratitude. 

Because every day in the classroom is a practice test for our students.

--

GUEST: 
Cindy Wells, GISH Activities Director

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59644916Thu, 25 Apr 2024 07:05:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you capture a four decade career in a conversation? Mrs. Cindy Wells, Grand Island Senior High Activities Director, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on the countless students and staff she's supported through 43 years in public education.  Set...
Mrs. Cindy Wells, Grand Island Senior High Activities Director, joins the GIPS Cast to reflect on the countless students and staff she's supported through 43 years in public education.  Set to retire at the end of this school year, Wells shares her favorite memories, the "day-in-the-life" of an Activities Director, and how it all comes back to connecting with kids.  Through it all, she finds herself filled with gratitude. 

Because every day in the classroom is a practice test for our students.

--

GUEST: 
Cindy Wells, GISH Activities Director

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/ ]]>1687education,grandisland,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,highschoolathletics,highschoolsports,nebpreps,nebraska,principal,publiceducation,school,schoolleader,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gish-going-cell-phone-free-w-jeff-gilbertson-megan-stone-adi-beltran-nate-helzer--59191610
You’re probably already familiar with the conversation of cell phones at school.  That certainly has been a topic under the microscope this year at GIPS and at Grand Island Senior High.

Earlier this school year – at the midway point, in fact – Grand Island Senior High made the intentional move of going “cell phone free” in the classrooms, hallways, and lunchrooms of Senior High.

So, three months deep into being "cell phone free" at GISH, we wanted to check-in to see how the new protocols are going, how students are responding, and see if we can notice a difference in social connection and engaged learning in the classroom.

Throughout this episode you will hear insight from Mr. Jeff Gilbertson, GISH Executive Principal, as he shares the genesis behind the drastic change.  Mrs. Megan Stone, GISH English & Capston Teacher, also shares what the classroom experience is looking like from a teaching perspective.  Adi Beltran, GISH Senior, provides perspective on the benefits and challenges students are facing.  And Mr. Nate Helzer, GISH Academy Principal, weighs-in on being driven by student success and finding common ground with everyone in the school.


Because anything worth doing requires shared vision and a committment to doing the best we can for each other.

--

GUESTS: 
Jeff Gilbertson, GISH Executive Principal
Megan Stone, GISH English & Capstone Teacher
Adi Beltran, GISH Senior & Student Leader
Nate Helzer, GISH Academy of Business & Communication Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59191610Wed, 27 Mar 2024 06:42:35 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsCell Phones. We’re addicted to them.  Well, at least most of us are. You’re probably already familiar with the conversation of cell phones at school.  That certainly has been a topic under the microscope this year at GIPS and at Grand Island Senior...
You’re probably already familiar with the conversation of cell phones at school.  That certainly has been a topic under the microscope this year at GIPS and at Grand Island Senior High.

Earlier this school year – at the midway point, in fact – Grand Island Senior High made the intentional move of going “cell phone free” in the classrooms, hallways, and lunchrooms of Senior High.

So, three months deep into being "cell phone free" at GISH, we wanted to check-in to see how the new protocols are going, how students are responding, and see if we can notice a difference in social connection and engaged learning in the classroom.

Throughout this episode you will hear insight from Mr. Jeff Gilbertson, GISH Executive Principal, as he shares the genesis behind the drastic change.  Mrs. Megan Stone, GISH English & Capston Teacher, also shares what the classroom experience is looking like from a teaching perspective.  Adi Beltran, GISH Senior, provides perspective on the benefits and challenges students are facing.  And Mr. Nate Helzer, GISH Academy Principal, weighs-in on being driven by student success and finding common ground with everyone in the school.


Because anything worth doing requires shared vision and a committment to doing the best we can for each other.

--

GUESTS: 
Jeff Gilbertson, GISH Executive Principal
Megan Stone, GISH English & Capstone Teacher
Adi Beltran, GISH Senior & Student Leader
Nate Helzer, GISH Academy of Business & Communication Principal

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>3098cellphonepolicy,cellphones,education,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,nebraska,principals,publicschool,school,seniorhigh,studentexperience,teachers,teaching,teenagerfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/becoming-a-state-champion-inspiring-the-next-generation-w-anyia-roberts-coach-evans--59097484
Carving her name into the history books, Anyia Roberts became Grand Island Senior High's first ever Girlst Wrestling State Champion this year.  She joins "The GIPS Cast" to share how she found her passion on the wrestling mat and why inspiring the next generation of girl wrestlers matters.

Head Coach Jeff Evans joins the conversation as well to highlight how the GISH Girls Wrestling program has become a Nebraska powerhouse in just three years.  He also shares how the girls are finding themselves and each other in the wrestling room. 

Because trusting the process is all about giving students opportunities they otherwise may not have had.

--

GUESTS: 
Anyia Roberts, GISH Junior
Coach Jeff Evans, GISH Girls Wrestling

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59097484Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:35:46 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsGirls Wrestling is more than a sport — it's a community. Carving her name into the history books, Anyia Roberts became Grand Island Senior High's first ever Girlst Wrestling State Champion this year.  She joins "The GIPS Cast" to share how she found...
Carving her name into the history books, Anyia Roberts became Grand Island Senior High's first ever Girlst Wrestling State Champion this year.  She joins "The GIPS Cast" to share how she found her passion on the wrestling mat and why inspiring the next generation of girl wrestlers matters.

Head Coach Jeff Evans joins the conversation as well to highlight how the GISH Girls Wrestling program has become a Nebraska powerhouse in just three years.  He also shares how the girls are finding themselves and each other in the wrestling room. 

Because trusting the process is all about giving students opportunities they otherwise may not have had.

--

GUESTS: 
Anyia Roberts, GISH Junior
Coach Jeff Evans, GISH Girls Wrestling

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/
]]>1665education,girlswrestling,gish,grandisland,grandislandseniorhigh,highschool,islanderpride,nebraska,publicschools,teachers,teaching,wrestlingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/arranging-jazz-music-w-kevin-parra-vazquez-gish-senior--58924574
Kevin Parra Vazquez is a Senior at GISH and an accomplished musician. He joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how music changed his life in school.

In addition to playing saxophone in a number of brand groups at Senior High, he's recently begun arranging and reinventing old jazz music. His piece, "Stardust", was recently performed at the annual GISH Jazz Fest earlier this month.

Hear Kevin's story and "Stardust" here!

Because music is all about discovery.

--

GUEST: Kevin Parra Vazquez, GISH Senior

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58924574Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:00:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsSharing yourself through music can be a powerful thing. Kevin Parra Vazquez is a Senior at GISH and an accomplished musician. He joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how music changed his life in school. In addition to playing saxophone in a number of...
Kevin Parra Vazquez is a Senior at GISH and an accomplished musician. He joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how music changed his life in school.

In addition to playing saxophone in a number of brand groups at Senior High, he's recently begun arranging and reinventing old jazz music. His piece, "Stardust", was recently performed at the annual GISH Jazz Fest earlier this month.

Hear Kevin's story and "Stardust" here!

Because music is all about discovery.

--

GUEST: Kevin Parra Vazquez, GISH Senior

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1603education,gips,gipscast,grandisland,grandislandpublicschools,highschool,highschoolband,jazzband,jazzmusic,musiceducation,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mental-health-wellness-matters-w-dr-summer-stephens-rebecca-duran-meyer--58699469Please note this episode contains discussion about depression, suicide, and seeking support for those struggles.

--

Wellness matters.

Dr. Summer Stephens, GIPS Associate Supt., and Rebecca Duran Meyer, Elementary School Social Worker, join The GIPS Cast hoping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and wellness. Whether it's breaking down barriers of access to support, or simply stepping-up to be a trusted adult in someone's life we all can benefit from a deeper, more empathetic understanding of mental wellness.

Along the way, they discuss how GIPS seeks to support students, staff, and families with what they need. Summer & Rebecca also share about the new family wellness resources GIPS has begun offering to district families for free through generous partnerships.

Because everyone deserves to be supported.

Information may be found at www.GIPS.org/familywellness

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, suicide ideation, or the like, please reach out to a trusted adult you have in your life for support. We also encourage folks to use the free 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

--

GUESTS:
Dr. Summer Stephens, GIPS Associate Superintendent
Rebecca Duran Meyer, Knickrehm Elementary Social Worker

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--
Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58699469Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:15:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsCONTENT WARNING: Please note this episode contains discussion about depression, suicide, and seeking support for those struggles. -- Wellness matters. Dr. Summer Stephens, GIPS Associate Supt., and Rebecca Duran Meyer, Elementary School Social...Please note this episode contains discussion about depression, suicide, and seeking support for those struggles.

--

Wellness matters.

Dr. Summer Stephens, GIPS Associate Supt., and Rebecca Duran Meyer, Elementary School Social Worker, join The GIPS Cast hoping to break the stigma surrounding mental health and wellness. Whether it's breaking down barriers of access to support, or simply stepping-up to be a trusted adult in someone's life we all can benefit from a deeper, more empathetic understanding of mental wellness.

Along the way, they discuss how GIPS seeks to support students, staff, and families with what they need. Summer & Rebecca also share about the new family wellness resources GIPS has begun offering to district families for free through generous partnerships.

Because everyone deserves to be supported.

Information may be found at www.GIPS.org/familywellness

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, suicide ideation, or the like, please reach out to a trusted adult you have in your life for support. We also encourage folks to use the free 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

--

GUESTS:
Dr. Summer Stephens, GIPS Associate Superintendent
Rebecca Duran Meyer, Knickrehm Elementary Social Worker

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--
Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2911counseling,education,grandisland,mentalhealth,mentalhealthawareness,mentalwellness,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschoolproud,publicschools,school,socialwork,socialworkers,teachers,teaching,youmatterfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gips-is-moving-forward-state-of-the-city-message-w-mr-fisher--58669515
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, was invited to speak at the annual State of the City event held on February 9th, 2024.

He shared insights into the growing academic performance across our schools, a budget reduction snapshot, and updates on the newly relaunched Academies of Grand Island Senior High.

We're pleased to share Mr. Fisher's full message here.
--

GUEST: Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--
Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58669515Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:15:02 +0000Grand Island Public Schools"What is the best way to help our students grow and how can we best ensure student success?" Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, was invited to speak at the annual State of the City event held on February 9th, 2024. He shared insights into the...
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, was invited to speak at the annual State of the City event held on February 9th, 2024.

He shared insights into the growing academic performance across our schools, a budget reduction snapshot, and updates on the newly relaunched Academies of Grand Island Senior High.

We're pleased to share Mr. Fisher's full message here.
--

GUEST: Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--
Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>916education,educators,grandisland,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschoolproud,publicschools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cpi-construction-building-grand-island-w-angel-velasco--58341457
Angel Velasco (GISH Class of 2015), joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how Career Technical Education changed his life. Along the way, he speaks about the importance of finding construction opportunities in high school, how two teachers saw his potential, and how cool it is seeing the community enjoy his work in downtown Grand Island.

Because there's a lot to be proud of when you build things with your own two hands.
--

GUEST: Angel Velasco, AV Contracting

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58341457Thu, 18 Jan 2024 06:59:56 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsSuccess is defined by finding your passion and pursuing it. Angel Velasco (GISH Class of 2015), joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how Career Technical Education changed his life. Along the way, he speaks about the importance of finding construction...
Angel Velasco (GISH Class of 2015), joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how Career Technical Education changed his life. Along the way, he speaks about the importance of finding construction opportunities in high school, how two teachers saw his potential, and how cool it is seeing the community enjoy his work in downtown Grand Island.

Because there's a lot to be proud of when you build things with your own two hands.
--

GUEST: Angel Velasco, AV Contracting

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1397careeracademies,careerpathways,careerpathwaysinstitute,careertechnicaleducation,construction,cte,education,highschool,learning,publicschool,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/engineering-at-the-naval-academy-looking-forward-w-sage-mccallum--58194917
Sage McCallum (GISH Class of 2022), Sophomore & Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of blazing new trails. Along the way, she salutes teachers who changed her life, speaks to her commitment to service, and vision for the future of life in the Navy after college.

Because it takes a village to help you reach your goals.
--

GUEST: Sage McCallum, U.S. Naval Academy

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58194917Thu, 04 Jan 2024 06:37:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsMore than just achievement — it's about something bigger. Sage McCallum (GISH Class of 2022), Sophomore & Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of blazing new trails. Along the way, she salutes...
Sage McCallum (GISH Class of 2022), Sophomore & Midshipman at the U.S. Naval Academy, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of blazing new trails. Along the way, she salutes teachers who changed her life, speaks to her commitment to service, and vision for the future of life in the Navy after college.

Because it takes a village to help you reach your goals.
--

GUEST: Sage McCallum, U.S. Naval Academy

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1431education,grandisland,highschool,highschoollife,k12education,navy,nebraska,publicschoolproud,publicschools,school,teachers,teaching,usnavalacademyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-opportunities-removing-student-learning-barriers-w-bianca-ayala--58125220
Bianca Ayala (GISH Class of 2005), Principal at Gates Elementary, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of classroom EL teacher to school Principal in the public school district that raised her. Along the way, she shares her passion for student advocacy, her experiences working with student immigrants, and why public education matters.

Because every single student deserves access to education.
--

GUEST: Bianca Ayala, Gates Elementary Principal

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58125220Wed, 27 Dec 2023 06:05:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsTeaching, Learning, and Leading. Bianca Ayala (GISH Class of 2005), Principal at Gates Elementary, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of classroom EL teacher to school Principal in the public school district that raised her. Along...
Bianca Ayala (GISH Class of 2005), Principal at Gates Elementary, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her journey of classroom EL teacher to school Principal in the public school district that raised her. Along the way, she shares her passion for student advocacy, her experiences working with student immigrants, and why public education matters.

Because every single student deserves access to education.
--

GUEST: Bianca Ayala, Gates Elementary Principal

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1681education,k12education,leadership,principal,publicschool,publicschools,school,schoolleadership,schoolprincipals,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/5th-grade-poetry-classroom-creativity-w-nebraska-state-poet-matt-mason-mr-butters-mrs-rose-osgood-student-poets--57992158
Every year 5th Graders across the district explore a Poetry Unit as part of our English Language Arts Curriculum. And it’s really cool to see our students explore poetry — many of them for the first time.

At Stolley Park Elementary, they take it to another level.

For three years running now, the 5th Grade classes at Stolley Park host a Poetry Night. Families come to the school and have an opportunity to hear their students share original poetry they wrote during the unit. Not to be outdone, just a few days before the Annual Poetry Night they had a special guest come by and lead a workshop… Nebraska State Poet, Matt Mason!

Hear from a few of our student poets, Mr. Butters & Mrs. Rose-Osgood, and our State Poet.

--

GUESTS:
Matt Mason - Nebraska State Poet
Kevin Butters - 5th Grade Teacher, Stolley Park Elementary
Tamisha Rose-Osgood - 5th Grader Teacher, Stolley Park Elementary
Porter, Jamileth, Maisie - 5th Grade Student Poets

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57992158Wed, 13 Dec 2023 06:09:45 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you unlock creativity and critical thinking? Poetry might be the answer. Every year 5th Graders across the district explore a Poetry Unit as part of our English Language Arts Curriculum. And it’s really cool to see our students explore poetry...
Every year 5th Graders across the district explore a Poetry Unit as part of our English Language Arts Curriculum. And it’s really cool to see our students explore poetry — many of them for the first time.

At Stolley Park Elementary, they take it to another level.

For three years running now, the 5th Grade classes at Stolley Park host a Poetry Night. Families come to the school and have an opportunity to hear their students share original poetry they wrote during the unit. Not to be outdone, just a few days before the Annual Poetry Night they had a special guest come by and lead a workshop… Nebraska State Poet, Matt Mason!

Hear from a few of our student poets, Mr. Butters & Mrs. Rose-Osgood, and our State Poet.

--

GUESTS:
Matt Mason - Nebraska State Poet
Kevin Butters - 5th Grade Teacher, Stolley Park Elementary
Tamisha Rose-Osgood - 5th Grader Teacher, Stolley Park Elementary
Porter, Jamileth, Maisie - 5th Grade Student Poets

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>12975thgrade,creativity,curriculum,education,ela,elementaryschool,englishlanguagearts,mattmason,nebraska,nebraskastatepoet,poems,poetry,publicschool,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/more-than-a-game-w-coach-jeff-tomlin--57743498
Jeff Tomlin, GISH Football Head Coach, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his mission for inspiring student athletes. With over 30 years of coaching and education under his belt, he knows what it takes to build a team and it starts by choosing not to focus on wins and losses. As Coach T. puts it, "We're building young men, not just playing football". Anyone that's gone through his program will agree. Even though Coach Tomlin is retiring, he can walk away knowing he's leaving behind a legacy of integrity.

Because it's about teaching the next generation how to be good citizens and good leaders.
--

GUEST: Jeff Tomlin, GISH Football Head Coach

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57743498Tue, 21 Nov 2023 06:05:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you build champions for life? By raising expectations. Jeff Tomlin, GISH Football Head Coach, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his mission for inspiring student athletes. With over 30 years of coaching and education under his belt, he...
Jeff Tomlin, GISH Football Head Coach, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share his mission for inspiring student athletes. With over 30 years of coaching and education under his belt, he knows what it takes to build a team and it starts by choosing not to focus on wins and losses. As Coach T. puts it, "We're building young men, not just playing football". Anyone that's gone through his program will agree. Even though Coach Tomlin is retiring, he can walk away knowing he's leaving behind a legacy of integrity.

Because it's about teaching the next generation how to be good citizens and good leaders.
--

GUEST: Jeff Tomlin, GISH Football Head Coach

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1888coaching,education,football,highschool,highschoolfootball,nebpreps,nebraska,publicschool,publicschools,studentathletes,students,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/breaking-barriers-thru-the-nebraska-college-preparatory-academy-w-abel-covarrubias--57388686
Abel Covarrubias (GISH Class of 2010), Director of the Nebraska College Preparatory Academy through UNL, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at Grand Island Senior High changed his trajectory. Along the way, he shares his experiences as an early cohort member in NCPA at GISH, what inspiring first generation university students looks like, and why it takes a village to invest in students. He also salutes a few GIPS educators who changed his life by simply giving him access to resources.

Because students will achieve remarkable things once they know how to get there.
--

GUEST: Abel Covarrubias, Nebraska College Preparatory Academy Director

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57388686Thu, 26 Oct 2023 05:15:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you change the world for the better?... One student at a time. Abel Covarrubias (GISH Class of 2010), Director of the Nebraska College Preparatory Academy through UNL, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at Grand Island Senior...
Abel Covarrubias (GISH Class of 2010), Director of the Nebraska College Preparatory Academy through UNL, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at Grand Island Senior High changed his trajectory. Along the way, he shares his experiences as an early cohort member in NCPA at GISH, what inspiring first generation university students looks like, and why it takes a village to invest in students. He also salutes a few GIPS educators who changed his life by simply giving him access to resources.

Because students will achieve remarkable things once they know how to get there.
--

GUEST: Abel Covarrubias, Nebraska College Preparatory Academy Director

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2676college,collegeprep,collegestudents,cornhuskers,education,highschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,teachers,teaching,university,universityofnebraskafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/empowering-student-scholars-at-senior-high-w-gearup-joaquin-z-dallas-poet-laureate--57175107
Joaquin Zihuatanejo, Dallas Poet Laureate & Educator, shares why he wanted to visit Grand Island Senior High to inspire students to find their voice through pursuing college. Amber High and Shalee Lindsey, GIPS GearUp program, join the conversation to unpack what it means to show-up every day and help high school students see everything they could be. And the three of them share some incredible stories along the way.

Because in public schools it's about empowering students to see and pursue their potential.
--

GUESTS:
Amber High, GearUp Coordinator
Shalee Lindsey,GearUp Academic Coach
Joaquin Zihuatanejo, Poet - Writer - Speaker

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57175107Tue, 10 Oct 2023 05:15:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsStudents are capable of great things... all through the power of words. Joaquin Zihuatanejo, Dallas Poet Laureate & Educator, shares why he wanted to visit Grand Island Senior High to inspire students to find their voice through pursuing college....
Joaquin Zihuatanejo, Dallas Poet Laureate & Educator, shares why he wanted to visit Grand Island Senior High to inspire students to find their voice through pursuing college. Amber High and Shalee Lindsey, GIPS GearUp program, join the conversation to unpack what it means to show-up every day and help high school students see everything they could be. And the three of them share some incredible stories along the way.

Because in public schools it's about empowering students to see and pursue their potential.
--

GUESTS:
Amber High, GearUp Coordinator
Shalee Lindsey,GearUp Academic Coach
Joaquin Zihuatanejo, Poet - Writer - Speaker

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2727coolspeak,creativewriting,education,englishclass,essays,gearuppromise,highschool,nebraska,nebraskapublicschools,poem,poetry,poetryslam,publicschool,publicschoolsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/budget-updates-for-2023-24-w-matt-fisher-virgil-harden--56807694
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, unpack the notable updates and historic developments with the 2023-24 district budget. Along the way, they discuss the district's first lowering of the tax levy in over twenty years, why maintaining staffing support is important, and how the district will be strategic in spending going forward.

Because it's about spending only what is necessary to ensure Every Student, Every Day, A Success!
--

GUESTS: Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent & Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56807694Fri, 15 Sep 2023 05:02:18 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsBudget season is here! Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, unpack the notable updates and historic developments with the 2023-24 district budget. Along the way, they discuss the district's first lowering of the tax levy in...
Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent, and Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO, unpack the notable updates and historic developments with the 2023-24 district budget. Along the way, they discuss the district's first lowering of the tax levy in over twenty years, why maintaining staffing support is important, and how the district will be strategic in spending going forward.

Because it's about spending only what is necessary to ensure Every Student, Every Day, A Success!
--

GUESTS: Matt Fisher, GIPS Superintendent & Virgil Harden, GIPS CFO

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2151education,elementaryschool,highschool,middleschool,nebraska,publiceducation,school,schoolbudgets,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/high-school-teacher-of-the-year-w-jessica-whitmire--56771872
Jessica Whitmire, GISH Financial Management Pathway Teacher, shares her unconventional story of how she ended-up in the classroom with a bunch of teenagers. Along the way, she emphasizes the importance of seeing every student, why classroom creativity matters, and what it's like to be honored as a teacher of the year.

Because the best teachers are the ones that connect with their students.
--

GUEST: Jessica Whitmire, Financial Management Pathway Teacher - GISH

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56771872Tue, 12 Sep 2023 05:05:01 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsTeaching is an adventure. Jessica Whitmire, GISH Financial Management Pathway Teacher, shares her unconventional story of how she ended-up in the classroom with a bunch of teenagers. Along the way, she emphasizes the importance of seeing every...
Jessica Whitmire, GISH Financial Management Pathway Teacher, shares her unconventional story of how she ended-up in the classroom with a bunch of teenagers. Along the way, she emphasizes the importance of seeing every student, why classroom creativity matters, and what it's like to be honored as a teacher of the year.

Because the best teachers are the ones that connect with their students.
--

GUEST: Jessica Whitmire, Financial Management Pathway Teacher - GISH

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1436education,highschool,highschoolacademies,nebraska,publicschool,publicschools,seniorhigh,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/our-today-their-tomorrow-w-gips-educators--56563789
The 2023-24 school year has arrived and we're hitting the ground running and welcoming students and families back into our schools.

One thing we do at Grand Island Public Schools is we pick a theme for each school year. A phrase that helps set the stage for our 1,500+ staff to confidently step into another school year ready to engage our students as they learn, discover, and grow.

This year’s theme is: “Our Today; Their Tomorrow”.

A simple encapsulation of what it is we do at our public schools – making each day count in the moment while empowering future generations to achieve.

We couldn’t think of a better way to start the 2023-24 school year here at "The GIPS Cast" than by sharing voices from our everyday heroes – our staff. So, we sat down with thirteen GIPS teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff and we asked them the same two questions:

• What does “Our Today; Their Tomorrow” mean to you?
• And what is your hope for your students?

And the answers… well, the answers were pretty remarkable.


--

GUESTS:

• Jason Weseman, 5th Grade Teacher - Howard Elementary
• Jen Kramer, Social Studies Teacher - Westridge Middle School
• Pat Doyle, Strength & Condition Coach - Grand Island Senior High
• Lacy Biberos, 6th Grade Math - Barr Middle School
• Roger Fisher, Head Custodian - Starr Elementary
• Mike Persampieri, Assistant Principal - Walnut Middle School
• Emerald Tolles, 1st Grade Teacher - Wasmer Elementary
• Kaylee Cellar, English Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Rob Bishop, GIPS Positive Supports Coordinator
• Marty Markvicka, School Psychologist - Gates Elementary
• Micki Nuss, Art Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Seung Yeon Lee, Science Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Dawn Duel-Rutt, Social Worker - Success Academy

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.


--


Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools


https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56563789Wed, 23 Aug 2023 05:07:37 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsIt's all about the "why". The 2023-24 school year has arrived and we're hitting the ground running and welcoming students and families back into our schools. One thing we do at Grand Island Public Schools is we pick a theme for each school year. A...
The 2023-24 school year has arrived and we're hitting the ground running and welcoming students and families back into our schools.

One thing we do at Grand Island Public Schools is we pick a theme for each school year. A phrase that helps set the stage for our 1,500+ staff to confidently step into another school year ready to engage our students as they learn, discover, and grow.

This year’s theme is: “Our Today; Their Tomorrow”.

A simple encapsulation of what it is we do at our public schools – making each day count in the moment while empowering future generations to achieve.

We couldn’t think of a better way to start the 2023-24 school year here at "The GIPS Cast" than by sharing voices from our everyday heroes – our staff. So, we sat down with thirteen GIPS teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff and we asked them the same two questions:

• What does “Our Today; Their Tomorrow” mean to you?
• And what is your hope for your students?

And the answers… well, the answers were pretty remarkable.


--

GUESTS:

• Jason Weseman, 5th Grade Teacher - Howard Elementary
• Jen Kramer, Social Studies Teacher - Westridge Middle School
• Pat Doyle, Strength & Condition Coach - Grand Island Senior High
• Lacy Biberos, 6th Grade Math - Barr Middle School
• Roger Fisher, Head Custodian - Starr Elementary
• Mike Persampieri, Assistant Principal - Walnut Middle School
• Emerald Tolles, 1st Grade Teacher - Wasmer Elementary
• Kaylee Cellar, English Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Rob Bishop, GIPS Positive Supports Coordinator
• Marty Markvicka, School Psychologist - Gates Elementary
• Micki Nuss, Art Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Seung Yeon Lee, Science Teacher - Grand Island Senior High
• Dawn Duel-Rutt, Social Worker - Success Academy

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.


--


Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools


https://www.gips.org/]]>1640education,elementaryschool,highschool,middleschool,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschool,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/showing-up-for-every-student-w-mrs-selena-valentine--56342685
Mrs. Selena Valentine, Principal at Starr Elementary School, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share why public schools are a place where everyone is welcome. Along the way, she shares how her counseling background fuels her approach to education, what supporting teachers actually looks like, and why it's important to celebrate students.

Because public education shapes both today and tomorrow.
--

GUEST: Mrs. Selena Valentine, Starr Elementary - Principal

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56342685Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:35:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsEvery student deserves to feel like they belong at school. Mrs. Selena Valentine, Principal at Starr Elementary School, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share why public schools are a place where everyone is welcome. Along the way, she shares how her...
Mrs. Selena Valentine, Principal at Starr Elementary School, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share why public schools are a place where everyone is welcome. Along the way, she shares how her counseling background fuels her approach to education, what supporting teachers actually looks like, and why it's important to celebrate students.

Because public education shapes both today and tomorrow.
--

GUEST: Mrs. Selena Valentine, Starr Elementary - Principal

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1649education,elementaryschool,highschool,middleschool,nebraska,principal,publiceducation,publicschool,publicschools,school,schoolcounseling,schoolleaders,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/student-journalism-community-impact-w-jackie-ruiz-rodriguez--56107572
Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, GISH Class of 2023, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to talk about how she found herself exploring student journalism almost by chance. Along the way, she shares how she found her voice through writing, why everyone deserves to have their story told, and how she balanced writing for the Senior High newspaper, city newspaper, and the GIPS Foundation Newsletter.

Because finding a way to tell your community's stories is a meaningful thing.
--

GUESTS:
Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, GISH Class of 2023

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56107572Mon, 17 Jul 2023 06:05:01 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsFor many students, high school is about finding your voice and discovering your passion. Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, GISH Class of 2023, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to talk about how she found herself exploring student journalism almost by chance. Along...
Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, GISH Class of 2023, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to talk about how she found herself exploring student journalism almost by chance. Along the way, she shares how she found her voice through writing, why everyone deserves to have their story told, and how she balanced writing for the Senior High newspaper, city newspaper, and the GIPS Foundation Newsletter.

Because finding a way to tell your community's stories is a meaningful thing.
--

GUESTS:
Jackie Ruiz-Rodriguez, GISH Class of 2023

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>1360broadcasting,education,highschool,journalism,news,newspaper,newspapers,publicschools,school,studentjournalismfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-student-poetry-w-analee-jayson-p-j-marissa--55464543
You’re going to hear from four Grand Island Senior High students. Specifically, student poets.

Jayson, Analee, P.J., & Marissa

These four high school students have discovered the power of poetry. Through the Senior High Poetry Club and other opportunities like our GearUp program’s annual poetry slam – these students have found their voice.

You’re going to hear their words.
Words of inspiration; words of hope; words of emotion; words of pain; words of resolution; words of discovery. And all of them honest; true to their experiences. These are 100% original works written and performed by the students featured.

Because student voices matter.
--

STUDENT POET GUESTS:
Analee Adams, GISH
Jayson Shelton, GISH
P.J. De la Torre, GISH
Marissa Crosby, GISH

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/55464543Thu, 29 Jun 2023 05:45:40 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsCreative expression can be a meaningful thing for a student. You’re going to hear from four Grand Island Senior High students. Specifically, student poets. Jayson, Analee, P.J., & Marissa These four high school students have discovered the...
You’re going to hear from four Grand Island Senior High students. Specifically, student poets.

Jayson, Analee, P.J., & Marissa

These four high school students have discovered the power of poetry. Through the Senior High Poetry Club and other opportunities like our GearUp program’s annual poetry slam – these students have found their voice.

You’re going to hear their words.
Words of inspiration; words of hope; words of emotion; words of pain; words of resolution; words of discovery. And all of them honest; true to their experiences. These are 100% original works written and performed by the students featured.

Because student voices matter.
--

STUDENT POET GUESTS:
Analee Adams, GISH
Jayson Shelton, GISH
P.J. De la Torre, GISH
Marissa Crosby, GISH

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>766education,highschool,highschoolpoetry,nebraska,nebraskaeducation,poems,poetry,poetryclub,poetryslam,publiceducation,publicschool,publicschools,studentpoems,studentpoetryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/growing-leaders-thru-tri-city-ascend-w-mrs-rose-osgood-mrs-jones--54427291
Mrs. Tamisha Rose-Osgood, Stolley Park Elementary, and Mrs. Tausha Jones, Wasmer Elementary, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share their expereinces with the Tri-City ASCEND school leadership training program. Along the way, both Tamisha & Tausha share the philosophies of school leadership; the underrated impact of everyday decision making; and why relationships matter whether your teaching in a classroom or leading a building.

Because leadership is more than a title — it's about making an impact where you are.
--

GUESTS:
Mrs. Tamisha Rose-Osgood, Stolley Park Elementary
Mrs. Tausha Jones, Wasmer Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54427291Thu, 15 Jun 2023 05:35:15 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsInvesting in the next generation of leaders means providing opportunities. Mrs. Tamisha Rose-Osgood, Stolley Park Elementary, and Mrs. Tausha Jones, Wasmer Elementary, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share their expereinces with the Tri-City ASCEND...
Mrs. Tamisha Rose-Osgood, Stolley Park Elementary, and Mrs. Tausha Jones, Wasmer Elementary, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share their expereinces with the Tri-City ASCEND school leadership training program. Along the way, both Tamisha & Tausha share the philosophies of school leadership; the underrated impact of everyday decision making; and why relationships matter whether your teaching in a classroom or leading a building.

Because leadership is more than a title — it's about making an impact where you are.
--

GUESTS:
Mrs. Tamisha Rose-Osgood, Stolley Park Elementary
Mrs. Tausha Jones, Wasmer Elementary

HOST:
Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Director

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/

#WeAreGIPS]]>2069education,educationleadership,leadership,nebraska,nebraskaeducation,principal,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schoolsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/looking-ahead-narrowing-focus-w-mr-matt-fisher--53967262
Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Interim Superintendent, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to dive deep into where the district is headed and the state of public schools across the country. Along the way, he shares the "how" of GIPS is found in its people; why building trust is vital; and how our staff, students, and community can work together to elevate public education above the political noise.

After all, one thing in education hasn't changed... we are here to take care of students.
--

GUEST: Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Interim Superintendent

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53967262Tue, 23 May 2023 06:10:36 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhy public education? Because there's meaning in the good work. Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Interim Superintendent, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to dive deep into where the district is headed and the state of public schools across the country. Along the way,...
Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Interim Superintendent, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to dive deep into where the district is headed and the state of public schools across the country. Along the way, he shares the "how" of GIPS is found in its people; why building trust is vital; and how our staff, students, and community can work together to elevate public education above the political noise.

After all, one thing in education hasn't changed... we are here to take care of students.
--

GUEST: Mr. Matt Fisher, GIPS Interim Superintendent

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1586education,educators,gips,grandisland,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,teachersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unlocking-student-creativity-w-mr-adam-zlomke--53649302
Mr. Adam Zlomke, Entrepreneurship Pathway Teacher at Grand Island Senior High, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how creativity fuels both his students and his teaching. Along the way, he unpacks the innovative approach of IncubatorEDU, some of the unique ways his students are aiming to solve problems in the world, and why investing in high school students is about as meaningful [and fun] as it gets.

Because students have the capacity to change the world.
--

GUEST: Mr. Adam Zlomke, Grand Island Senior High - Entrepreneurship Pathway Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53649302Wed, 26 Apr 2023 05:41:41 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhy entrepreneurship?... Because you can make pretty much anything! Mr. Adam Zlomke, Entrepreneurship Pathway Teacher at Grand Island Senior High, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how creativity fuels both his students and his teaching. Along the...
Mr. Adam Zlomke, Entrepreneurship Pathway Teacher at Grand Island Senior High, joins the "The GIPS Cast" to share how creativity fuels both his students and his teaching. Along the way, he unpacks the innovative approach of IncubatorEDU, some of the unique ways his students are aiming to solve problems in the world, and why investing in high school students is about as meaningful [and fun] as it gets.

Because students have the capacity to change the world.
--

GUEST: Mr. Adam Zlomke, Grand Island Senior High - Entrepreneurship Pathway Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1740education,entrepreneurship,highschool,incubatoredu,nebraska,publicschools,schools,teachersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/literacy-is-liberation-w-dr-bills-mrs-nelson--53386784
Dr. Brittney Bills, GIPS K-5 ELA Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Brianna Nelson, Gates Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to chat about literacy and how it shapes the lives of our students. Along the way, they unpack the difference between reading and literacy; how literacy curriculum contributes to all subject matter learning; and why students deserve to dream big.

After all, it's more than just reading... literacy is liberation.
--

GUESTS: Dr. Brittney Bills, GIPS K-5 ELA Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Brianna Nelson, Gates Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53386784Thu, 30 Mar 2023 05:25:04 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhy is literacy important? Because it's everything. Dr. Brittney Bills, GIPS K-5 ELA Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Brianna Nelson, Gates Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to chat about literacy and how it shapes the lives of...
Dr. Brittney Bills, GIPS K-5 ELA Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Brianna Nelson, Gates Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to chat about literacy and how it shapes the lives of our students. Along the way, they unpack the difference between reading and literacy; how literacy curriculum contributes to all subject matter learning; and why students deserve to dream big.

After all, it's more than just reading... literacy is liberation.
--

GUESTS: Dr. Brittney Bills, GIPS K-5 ELA Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Brianna Nelson, Gates Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2713amplify,education,elementary,highschool,literacy,middleschool,publiceducation,publicschools,reading,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/power-camp-summer-2023-ft-miss-ayala-miss-luber--53220005
Miss Bianca Ayala, Barr Middle School EL Teacher, and Miss Hannah Luber, Starr Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share excitment for the upcoming Power Camp Summer 2023. Along the way they share what Power Camp looks like for 2nd - 5th Graders, the fun hands-on learning opportunities they'll experience, why investing in students brings them back every year.

Because fun and learning can go hand-in-hand.
--

GUESTS: Miss Bianca Ayala, Barr Middle School EL Teacher
Miss Hannah Luber, Starr Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53220005Thu, 16 Mar 2023 05:44:10 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsSummer learning [and summer fun] has never looked like this before. Miss Bianca Ayala, Barr Middle School EL Teacher, and Miss Hannah Luber, Starr Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share excitment for the upcoming Power Camp...
Miss Bianca Ayala, Barr Middle School EL Teacher, and Miss Hannah Luber, Starr Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher, join the "The GIPS Cast" to share excitment for the upcoming Power Camp Summer 2023. Along the way they share what Power Camp looks like for 2nd - 5th Graders, the fun hands-on learning opportunities they'll experience, why investing in students brings them back every year.

Because fun and learning can go hand-in-hand.
--

GUESTS: Miss Bianca Ayala, Barr Middle School EL Teacher
Miss Hannah Luber, Starr Elementary 2nd Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1233creativity,education,publicschools,school,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-science-learning-w-mrs-covarrubias-mrs-hespe--52809612
Mrs. Anya Covarrubias, GIPS Science Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Sydney Hespe, Knickrehm Elementary Academic Support Coach, chat with the "The GIPS Cast" on how the district is seeing massive growth in Science proficiency across the board. Along the way, they share why Science is more about the "how's" and "why's"; the impact of dedicated daily Science time; and how teachers are experts at what they do.

Because it's more than just learning facts... it's learning how to think.
--

GUESTS: Mrs. Anya Covarrubias, GIPS Science Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Sydney Hespe, Knickrehm Elementary Academic Support Coach

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52809612Wed, 22 Feb 2023 06:10:16 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsScience time every day for students AND teachers? Mrs. Anya Covarrubias, GIPS Science Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Sydney Hespe, Knickrehm Elementary Academic Support Coach, chat with the "The GIPS Cast" on how the district is seeing massive...
Mrs. Anya Covarrubias, GIPS Science Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Sydney Hespe, Knickrehm Elementary Academic Support Coach, chat with the "The GIPS Cast" on how the district is seeing massive growth in Science proficiency across the board. Along the way, they share why Science is more about the "how's" and "why's"; the impact of dedicated daily Science time; and how teachers are experts at what they do.

Because it's more than just learning facts... it's learning how to think.
--

GUESTS: Mrs. Anya Covarrubias, GIPS Science Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Sydney Hespe, Knickrehm Elementary Academic Support Coach

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2238curriculum,education,elementaryschool,highschool,k12,middleschool,publicschool,school,sciencefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fine-arts-in-schools-beyond-w-peter-palermo-sheldon-arts-foundation--52611812
Peter Palermo (GISH Class of 1983), Executive Director of the Sheldon Arts Foundation in St. Louis, joins "The GIPS Cast" to share his story of art, public education, and celebrating creativity. Palermo affirms the life-changing trajectory that arts opportunities bring to students and urges listeners to remember the power of tapping into our creative side. He also looks forward to coming back for a class reunion this year to see how GISH has transformed.

Because when we advocate for the arts, everyone wins.
--

GUESTS: Mr. Peter Palermo, Sheldon Arts Foundation Executive Director

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52611812Thu, 02 Feb 2023 05:16:10 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhere would we be without the arts? Peter Palermo (GISH Class of 1983), Executive Director of the Sheldon Arts Foundation in St. Louis, joins "The GIPS Cast" to share his story of art, public education, and celebrating creativity. Palermo affirms the...
Peter Palermo (GISH Class of 1983), Executive Director of the Sheldon Arts Foundation in St. Louis, joins "The GIPS Cast" to share his story of art, public education, and celebrating creativity. Palermo affirms the life-changing trajectory that arts opportunities bring to students and urges listeners to remember the power of tapping into our creative side. He also looks forward to coming back for a class reunion this year to see how GISH has transformed.

Because when we advocate for the arts, everyone wins.
--

GUESTS: Mr. Peter Palermo, Sheldon Arts Foundation Executive Director

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1904artsadvocacy,education,finearts,grandisland,nebraska,publicschools,schools,teachersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/community-advocacy-student-experience-w-joseline-reyna-of-ywca--52536649
Joseline Reyna (GISH Class of 2014), Community Organizer of YWCA and Community Engagement Coordinator for Leadership Unlimited, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of immigration, education, and advocacy. Reyna speaks to the challenges and opportunities she experienced as a student. She also shares her passion for building bridges in the community and being proud of where you come from.

Because we have the world in Grand Island and that makes us stronger.
--

GUESTS: Miss Joseline Reyna, YWCA Community Organizer

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52536649Wed, 25 Jan 2023 06:10:36 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you make a difference in your community? Joseline Reyna (GISH Class of 2014), Community Organizer of YWCA and Community Engagement Coordinator for Leadership Unlimited, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of immigration,...
Joseline Reyna (GISH Class of 2014), Community Organizer of YWCA and Community Engagement Coordinator for Leadership Unlimited, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share her story of immigration, education, and advocacy. Reyna speaks to the challenges and opportunities she experienced as a student. She also shares her passion for building bridges in the community and being proud of where you come from.

Because we have the world in Grand Island and that makes us stronger.
--

GUESTS: Miss Joseline Reyna, YWCA Community Organizer

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1939education,gips,grandisland,immigration,nebraska,publicschools,storytellingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tech-startups-school-storytelling-w-ben-pankonin-of-class-intercom--52419355
Ben Pankonin (GISH Class of 1998), CEO & Founder of Class Intercom, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at GIPS shaped his journey to Silicon Prairie. Along the way, he expands on why Class Intercom exists and how it strengthens student opporutnities. He also shares a vision for what the future of educational storytelling may look like and why Grand Island has much to be proud of.

Because for students the future is now.
--

GUESTS: Mr. Ben Pankonin, Class Intercom & Social Assurance CEO

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52419355Thu, 12 Jan 2023 06:28:26 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you transform the internet AND empower students? Ben Pankonin (GISH Class of 1998), CEO & Founder of Class Intercom, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at GIPS shaped his journey to Silicon Prairie. Along the way, he...
Ben Pankonin (GISH Class of 1998), CEO & Founder of Class Intercom, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how his time at GIPS shaped his journey to Silicon Prairie. Along the way, he expands on why Class Intercom exists and how it strengthens student opporutnities. He also shares a vision for what the future of educational storytelling may look like and why Grand Island has much to be proud of.

Because for students the future is now.
--

GUESTS: Mr. Ben Pankonin, Class Intercom & Social Assurance CEO

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1802classintercom,education,nebraska,publicschool,school,techfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/we-are-all-mathematicians-w-dr-buhrman-mrs-dudo--52233872
Dr. Danielle Buhrman, GIPS Mathematics Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Danielle Dudo, Newell Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, sit down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how tackling standards starts by breaking the stigma around math. Along the way, they share the exciting growth in math we're seeing districtwide; how standards impact classroom learning; and why empowerment is part of the process.

Because we are ALL mathematicians.
--

GUESTS: Dr. Danielle Buhrman, GIPS Math Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Danielle Dudo, Newell Elementary 4th Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52233872Tue, 20 Dec 2022 05:54:36 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsSHow do you energize students and staff to celebrate Math? Dr. Danielle Buhrman, GIPS Mathematics Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Danielle Dudo, Newell Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, sit down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how tackling standards...
Dr. Danielle Buhrman, GIPS Mathematics Curriculum Coordinator, and Mrs. Danielle Dudo, Newell Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, sit down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how tackling standards starts by breaking the stigma around math. Along the way, they share the exciting growth in math we're seeing districtwide; how standards impact classroom learning; and why empowerment is part of the process.

Because we are ALL mathematicians.
--

GUESTS: Dr. Danielle Buhrman, GIPS Math Curriculum Coordinator
Mrs. Danielle Dudo, Newell Elementary 4th Grade Teacher

HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1870curriculum,education,mathematics,mathstandards,mathteachers,nebraska,publicschools,school,schoolpr,teachersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bringing-college-to-middle-schoolers-w-mr-morrow--52063398
Mr. Jacob Morrow, School Counselor at Westridge Middle School, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how unlocking potential is key in the middle school. Along the way, he shares about taking 40 students to their first-ever college visit; the opportunity found in formational years; and the depth of dedication that teachers carry.

Because the daily work of inspiring students is no small thing.

--

GUEST: Mr. Jacob Marrow, School Counselor - Westridge Middle School
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52063398Thu, 01 Dec 2022 06:23:06 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you help students see their potential? Mr. Jacob Morrow, School Counselor at Westridge Middle School, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how unlocking potential is key in the middle school. Along the way, he shares about taking 40...
Mr. Jacob Morrow, School Counselor at Westridge Middle School, sits down with "The GIPS Cast" to share how unlocking potential is key in the middle school. Along the way, he shares about taking 40 students to their first-ever college visit; the opportunity found in formational years; and the depth of dedication that teachers carry.

Because the daily work of inspiring students is no small thing.

--

GUEST: Mr. Jacob Marrow, School Counselor - Westridge Middle School
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1557education,principals,publiceducation,publicschools,schoolleaders,schoolpr,teachersfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-5th-grade-learning-w-mr-butters--51908011
Mr. Kevin Butters, 5th Grade Teacher at Stolley Park Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share how he took the not-so-traditional path to teaching. Along the way, he shares stories of fascinating classroom chaos; helping students handle societal expectations; and sharing the wonders of poetry.

Because in the expert profession of teaching every day brings a new adventure.

--

GUEST: Mr. Kevin Butters, 5th Grade Teacher - Stolley Park Elementary
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51908011Wed, 16 Nov 2022 06:18:54 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsHow do you unlock learning for every student? Mr. Kevin Butters, 5th Grade Teacher at Stolley Park Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share how he took the not-so-traditional path to teaching. Along the way, he shares stories of fascinating...
Mr. Kevin Butters, 5th Grade Teacher at Stolley Park Elementary, joins The GIPS Cast to share how he took the not-so-traditional path to teaching. Along the way, he shares stories of fascinating classroom chaos; helping students handle societal expectations; and sharing the wonders of poetry.

Because in the expert profession of teaching every day brings a new adventure.

--

GUEST: Mr. Kevin Butters, 5th Grade Teacher - Stolley Park Elementary
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2056classroom,education,elementaryschool,nebraska,publicschools,school,schooldistrict,schools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/teaching-newcomers-international-opportunities-w-miss-nichole-kraus--51746289
Miss Nichole Kraus, EL Teacher at Walnut, joins the GIPS Cast to share her story of encountering the world in her classroom. Along the way, she speaks to the strength found in cultural diversity; why teaching isn't a "one size fits all" sort of thing; and how traveling to South Korea through the Fulbright-Hays program made her a better educator.

Because our students come from all over the globe and each of them deserves opportunities to learn.

--

GUEST: Miss Nichole Kraus, EL Teacher - Walnut Middle School
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51746289Tue, 01 Nov 2022 05:48:47 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhat does it look like to champion every student? Miss Nichole Kraus, EL Teacher at Walnut, joins the GIPS Cast to share her story of encountering the world in her classroom. Along the way, she speaks to the strength found in cultural diversity;...
Miss Nichole Kraus, EL Teacher at Walnut, joins the GIPS Cast to share her story of encountering the world in her classroom. Along the way, she speaks to the strength found in cultural diversity; why teaching isn't a "one size fits all" sort of thing; and how traveling to South Korea through the Fulbright-Hays program made her a better educator.

Because our students come from all over the globe and each of them deserves opportunities to learn.

--

GUEST: Miss Nichole Kraus, EL Teacher - Walnut Middle School
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>1912education,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,teachers,teachingfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/we-are-boldly-gips-w-dr-tawana-grover--51586924
The GIPS Cast welcomes Dr. Grover, Superintendent, to share insight behind the '22-'23 school year theme of, "We Are Boldly GIPS". Along the way, she unpacks the importance of championing staff, embracing a culture of innovation, showing-up for kids, and even shares a few snapshots from buildings.

Because at Grand Island Public Schools, all means all.

--

GUEST: Dr. Tawana Grover, GIPS Superintendent
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51586924Sun, 16 Oct 2022 06:13:02 +0000Grand Island Public SchoolsWhat does it mean to be bold? The GIPS Cast welcomes Dr. Grover, Superintendent, to share insight behind the '22-'23 school year theme of, "We Are Boldly GIPS". Along the way, she unpacks the importance of championing staff, embracing a culture of...
The GIPS Cast welcomes Dr. Grover, Superintendent, to share insight behind the '22-'23 school year theme of, "We Are Boldly GIPS". Along the way, she unpacks the importance of championing staff, embracing a culture of innovation, showing-up for kids, and even shares a few snapshots from buildings.

Because at Grand Island Public Schools, all means all.

--

GUEST: Dr. Tawana Grover, GIPS Superintendent
HOST: Mitchell Roush, GIPS Communications Dir.

--

Twitter: @GIPublicSchools
FB: facebook.com/GrandIslandPublicSchools

https://www.gips.org/]]>2077education,grandisland,nebraska,publiceducation,publicschools,school,schooladministration,schoolsfalse1full