All episodes

This episode of the Public School Podcast shines a spotlight on the Raider Coffee House at Stevens High School, where students are learning far more than how to make coffee. Hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with students Roberta and Devin, along with teacher Peggy Bias, to talk about the student run coffee shop that has become a place for confidence, teamwork and growth.From learning customer service and handling money to presenting at a statewide conference, the students share heartfelt and funny stories about what the Raider Coffee House means to them. The conversation includes memorable moments, lessons...

Central High School students are proving that a great idea can turn into something that truly changes lives. In this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High science teacher and Thrift Club advisor Heather Kiplinger to talk about the student led club bringing free clothing, creativity, and confidence to students across the school.From professional clothes for job interviews to upcycled fashion projects and lunch hour “shopping days,” the Thrift Club has quickly become more than just a place to grab clothes. It has become a space where students connect, support one...

In this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School healthcare teacher Brendon Sato to talk about the growing opportunities for students interested in the medical field. From hands on healthcare training and the district’s Certified Nursing Assistant program to plans for an international healthcare tour through Great Britain and Scotland, Sato shares how real world experiences can shape a student’s future.The conversation explores the importance of exposure, travel, and practical learning in helping students discover whether healthcare is the right path for them. Sato also reflects on his own journey...

This week on Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Rapid City substitute teacher and mom of three, Caitlin Scully, to talk about the reality of stepping into classrooms across the district. From comforting nervous students and navigating high school classrooms to surviving without lesson plans and learning the Promethean board, Caitlin shares the joys, challenges and hilarious moments that come with substitute teaching.The conversation also dives into why substitute teachers matter so much, how flexible the job can be for parents, and why community involvement in schools makes a lasting difference. Along the way, the...

After more than two decades leading Central High School’s theater program, Justin Speck sits down with Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer to reflect on a career that helped shape generations of students in Rapid City. From sold out productions and award winning student performances to hilarious backstage mishaps and emotional moments that changed lives, Justin shares the stories behind one of the most respected theater programs in the region.The conversation explores the importance of fine arts in public education, the lasting impact teachers can have on students, and why theater remains one of the most human experiences we can share....

This episode takes a meaningful look at one of the most powerful traditions in Rapid City Area Schools, the senior honoring and feathering ceremony. Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by Kit Veit and Marie Hebert to talk about the deep cultural and spiritual significance behind this event, which honors Native American graduates as they reach a major life milestone.From the meaning of eagle feathers and plumes to the role of family, prayer, and community, this conversation highlights why this ceremony matters not just for students, but for generations. You will also hear about the history behind these traditions,...

What does it really take to teach the youngest learners in our schools? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Jennifer Maciejewski, a junior kindergarten teacher at Valley View Elementary and former South Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist. Jennifer shares what a typical day looks like in her classroom, the importance of early childhood education, and how those first school experiences shape a child’s future.The conversation also dives into the heart behind teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with little learners, and the unexpected opportunities that come with being recognized for excellence, including a...

What happens when a local journalist is also a parent in the school system? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Chris Hornick of Homeslice Media and the Rapid City Post to talk about the unique perspective of covering schools while raising kids in them. From funny parenting moments to the responsibility of sharing accurate, positive stories, Chris gives an inside look at how local media and public schools work together to inform and strengthen the community. The conversation also highlights the impact of teachers, the importance of local storytelling, and why supporting public education matters...

School librarians are doing far more than shelving books and checking them out. In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with West Middle School librarian Shelley Rath to explore what the role really looks like today. From helping students discover a love of reading to teaching research skills, navigating technology, and even managing hundreds of student devices, Rath shares how the job has evolved. She opens up about her own journey from struggling reader to lifelong educator, the importance of access to books, and the small moments that make the biggest impact on students. It is a...

Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with guest Stacy Nehring, a Rapid City parent and founder of the Live Like Lily Foundation. After the loss of her daughter Lily following her sixth grade year, Stacy and her family turned tragedy into purpose. Inspired by an essay Lily wrote about kindness, the foundation was created to carry on her message of lifting others up through simple, meaningful actions. In this conversation, Stacy shares how small acts like compliments can change someone’s life, how the foundation supports students through scholarships and service, and how her family continues to honor Lily’s legacy...