All episodes

In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with the new superintendent of Rapid City Area Schools, Dr. Jami Jo Thompson. Fresh from Nebraska and just weeks into her new role, Dr. Thompson shares her journey from teaching middle school special education to leading entire districts, her vision for making Rapid City the “school of choice,” and her commitment to building trust through collaboration, transparency, and community partnerships. From tackling barriers to student success to recalling the fifth-grade teacher who changed her life, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and a genuine passion...

In Episode 16, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Leigh Shaw, a kindergarten teacher at Pinedale Elementary who brings heart, humor, and a deep understanding of child behavior into her classroom every day. From her own mischievous days as a student to being named Teacher of the Year at the very school she once attended, Leigh shares her full circle journey in education. She opens up about what it’s really like to teach five-year-olds, the power of guided play, why reading with kids matters so much, and how her school is launching a new Behavior Academy. It’s a...

In this uplifting and genuine conversation, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with North Middle School Assistant Principal Jayna Morrill. From singing in the halls to driving a Zamboni, Jayna shares how she leads with humor, heart, and authenticity. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of working in education, the importance of building relationships, and why being present matters more than perfection. With stories of champion builders, karaoke machines, and cinnamon rolls, this episode captures what makes middle school unforgettable and why Jayna says, “Stay weird, stay yourself.”This one is packed with laughter, real talk, and a...

In this special episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Sarah Gross, the new principal at Knollwood Elementary and the unofficial historian of Rapid City Area Schools. Sarah shares her passion for discovering and preserving the stories behind the district's oldest buildings and most defining moments. From fires that reshaped campuses to the evolution of neighborhood schools, she has spent years uncovering the rich history that lives within the walls of our schools. Sarah also talks about her journey as an educator and how her deep love for community and connection will shape her leadership in her new role. This...

In this episode, Sara and Bobbi talk with Beth Keeney, principal at Robbinsdale Elementary and a passionate advocate for building community in public schools. With 25 years in education and nearly a decade as a principal, Beth shares how her journey shaped her approach to leadership, belonging, and student connection. From early morning greetings to innovative “community days” that bring different grade levels together, Beth is creating a culture where every student feels seen and supported. She also reflects on the history of Robbinsdale, the power of small celebrations, and why trusting families and listening to staff make all the...

In this episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Micah Bransford, the Teammates Program Coordinator for Rapid City Area Schools. Micah shares how this school-based mentorship program pairs students with trusted adult mentors, creating consistent, one-on-one connections that can last from third grade through graduation. With nearly 90 active matches and a growing presence across the district, Teammates is helping students feel seen, supported, and excited to show up. Micah also discusses how mentorship is improving attendance, reducing behavior referrals, and even helping students apply for jobs and college. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or community member, this episode is...

In this episode, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Krista Leischner, Student Nutrition Manager for Rapid City Area Schools, who shares what it takes to feed thousands of students every day. With over eight years in the district and a background in dietetics, Krista breaks down the logistics, challenges, and heart behind the meals served in local schools. From early morning prep and satellite kitchens to expanding student choices and dreaming of a centralized facility, she gives listeners a real look at how her team makes it all happen. Whether it’s taco day or salad bar upgrades, Krista reminds us...

In this episode of Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Sateera Thompsen, Nurse Manager for Rapid City Area Schools. With over 40 years of nursing experience and more than 30 years dedicated to school health across multiple states, Sateera brings unmatched insight into the evolving role of nurses in education. From launching district-wide safety initiatives like AEDs and LifeVacs, to sharing powerful stories of student care and support, she reminds us how vital school nurses are in shaping safe and supportive environments for every child. If you’ve ever wondered what truly goes on behind the nurse’s office...

 In this episode of The Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with this year’s Rapid City Teacher of the Year, Ross Hunter, a passionate eighth-grade science teacher at Southwest Middle School. From a childhood shaped by Catholic school values to a winding path that eventually led him into education, Ross shares the honest, inspiring story of how he found his true calling in the classroom.He opens up about the realities of burnout, the importance of relationships with students and families, and why humor and curiosity are key ingredients in his teaching style. You'll also hear about the moment...

In this episode, we dive into the powerful impact that school communities have beyond just academics. From a heartfelt story about students being relocated due to construction, to the emotional and social connections that happen when kids get to spend time together outside the classroom. We explore the importance of these moments for students’ well-being and how it goes far beyond worksheets and computer work.We also highlight the incredible achievement of a local school earning the prestigious Lighthouse School certification from the Stephen Covey Foundation. This recognition celebrates the dedication of both teachers and students in developing leadership skills and...