What started as a simple idea to help students prepare for the school day has grown into one of Wilson Elementary's most impactful programs. In this episode, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Wilson Elementary Counselor of the Year Brittany Henry-James and recent Central High School graduate Melissa Saucerman to discuss the Morning Nest.

Held twice a week before school, the Morning Nest provides students with hygiene supplies, hair care, self-care resources and, most importantly, a sense of belonging. Students gather to connect with friends, receive encouragement, build confidence and start their day in a supportive environment. The program has become a place where relationships grow, students help one another and school staff can connect with children in meaningful ways.

Brittany shares how the idea came to life through a Rapid City Public School Foundation grant, while Melissa reflects on her experience volunteering and the impact the program has had on younger students. Together, they explore the importance of creating welcoming spaces where students feel seen, supported and ready to learn.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, mentorship, community support and the small acts of care that can make a lasting difference in a child's day.

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

What happens when schools focus on recognizing what students are doing right? In this episode, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with South Middle School educator Stacy Cole and Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings teacher Marie Herbert to discuss the impact of the Spirit Awards program. Supported through a Rapid City Public School Foundation grant, the program celebrates students who demonstrate self control, perseverance, integrity, respect, initiative and teamwork.

The conversation explores how positive reinforcement can build confidence, strengthen relationships between schools and families, and help students develop the skills needed for success both inside and outside the classroom. Stacy shares inspiring stories of student growth, while Marie explains how the values behind the program connect to the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and create a stronger sense of belonging for all students.

From recognizing small victories to creating lasting change, this episode highlights how a simple certificate and a few words of encouragement can make a powerful difference in a student's life.

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

Photography is more than taking pictures. It is about telling stories, capturing emotion, and seeing the world from a different perspective. In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School photography teacher Roxanne Rathbun and graduating senior Kennedy Block to talk about the power of photography in public education.

The conversation explores how students develop creative skills through photography, the importance of perspective, and how a partnership with the Rapid City Post is giving students real world journalism experience. Kennedy shares how her work photographing sports led to published articles and a new role as a freelance photographer and journalist after graduation.

From double exposure photography and dream photo destinations to the impact great teachers have on students' lives, this episode highlights how public schools help students turn their passions into future careers. It is a story about creativity, mentorship, and the opportunities that happen when educators believe in their students.

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