All episodes

On this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara and Bobbi sit down with Nicole Schlabach from the Black Hills Area Community Foundation to talk about one of the most impactful programs of the summer, the Summer Feeding Program. Nicole explains how this collaborative effort brings free, nutritious meals to children, parents, and grandparents across Rapid City and Box Elder. From reducing food insecurity to building community at local parks and schools, this program serves more than just food. It serves connection, dignity, and hope. Tune in to hear how local nonprofits and school staff make it all possible and...

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

We sit down with Shannon Bren, a passionate math teacher who has dedicated nearly 40 years to the classroom. Since her very first day of teaching in 1984, Shannon has learned that education is so much more than just lesson plans and curriculum it’s about connection, empathy, and adapting to the unique needs of every student.Join us as Shannon shares stories from her incredible teaching journey how she has grown alongside her students, embraced the challenges of changing educational landscapes, and discovered the profound impact a caring teacher can have on young lives. From moments of frustration to breakthroughs of...

Host Sara Hornick and Community Relations Manager Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with a true pioneer of public education advocacy, Sharon Lee, the founder and former executive director of the Rapid City Public School Foundation. Recorded in Studio 3B at the HomeSlice Media Group, this conversation goes back over 30 years to the very beginnings of the foundation and explores how one idea sparked a lasting movement in education.Sharon shares the origin story of the foundation how a conversation with local attorneys turned into a mission to support educators through community-driven funding. With warmth, humility, and passion, she reflects on the...

In this episode, host Sara Hornick, Executive Director of the Rapid City Public School Foundation, is joined by Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for Rapid City Area Schools, and their first official guest, Jade Clement, Construction Planning Manager for the district. Jade gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the critical role facilities play in the success and safety of our schools. From the massive South Middle School project to the emotional closure and demolition of Canyon Lake Elementary, Jade shares how long-term planning and capital improvements shape the future for students and staff. They also discuss upcoming renovations at Central...

Sarah Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are back in Studio 3A with another fun and heartfelt conversation about all things public education. In this episode, they talk about their vision for the podcast, celebrate the people who make our schools special, and highlight the powerful “why” behind lifelong careers in education. Sarah shares stories from a student fishing trip and opens up about her own experience growing up in multiple school systems. You’ll also hear about favorite teachers, childhood recess games (remember pogs?), and why Sarah would love to be a school librarian. It’s a joyful, nostalgic, and genuine look at...

In the very first episode of the Public School Podcast, host Sarah Hornick, Executive Director of the Rapid City Public School Foundation, sits down with Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for the school district, to pull back the curtain on how the Foundation and district work hand-in-hand to uplift students, teachers, and staff across the city. From funding classroom innovations like smart boards to ensuring every child is fed and ready to learn, this episode reveals the heart behind the headlines—and the power of partnership. Hear how a simple $50 grant turned into a life-changing moment, why celebrating support staff...

Welcome to The Public School Podcast—where real stories, real people, and real passion foreducation come together. Hosted by Sara Hornick, Executive Director of the Public SchoolFoundation, and Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for Rapid City AreaSchools, we’re diving into the heart of public education.Each episode, we sit down with community members, dedicated school staff, and passionateadvocates to ask one simple but powerful question:Why do public schools matter?From classroom wins to community-wide challenges, The Public School Podcast is yourfront-row seat to the conversations that shape our students’ futures—and our shared tomorrow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.