Affton Unplugged

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the nationally recognized school counseling program at Mesnier Primary School. School Counselors Megan Smith and Hannah Dreas explain how the state and national certification process serves as a crucial "checkup" for their program's effectiveness. The counselors describe the year-long application process, which...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Rogers Middle School Drama Club’s upcoming production. The episode features an interview with Mr. Joe Murphy, the drama club sponsor and high school teacher, and four students who discuss their roles and involvement in the club. The central topic of the discussion is their fall show, "It's a Mad House," a m...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the upcoming fall production at Affton High School - Peter & the Starcatcher. You will hear from four students—David (Student Director), Cora (Orphan), Anthony (Peter Pan), and Hana (Stage Manager)—involved in the play. The show is scheduled for November 21st and 22nd at 7:30 PM in the Judith Rethwisch Audi...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht celebrates National School Principal Month by featuring the principals from the Affton School District. The segment includes interviews with five principals—Dr. Sinamon (Early Childhood Center & PAT), Dr. Been (Mesnier Primary School), Dr. Powers (Gotsch Intermediate School), Dr. Griffin (Rogers Middle School), and Dr...

Superintendent Travis Bracht records from the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) Conference in Kansas City, interviewing school board members and superintendents about what makes their districts special and how podcasts can amplify those voices. Guests share favorite memories and district highlights — from community support and student achievement to well-being initiatives and award-winning...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht focuses on the district's social emotional learning (SEL) interventionists. The episode introduces four interventionists—Dan Ludwig at Affton High School, Lena Mahurin at Rogers Middle School, Molly Browning at Gotsch Intermediate School, and Paige Carter at Mesnier Primary School—who share their diverse professional back...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Choir Program. You will hear from longtime choir director Mr. Dale Fearnley and four students from Affton High School—Liam McCart, David McKenzie, Louisa Sullivan, and Ruby Kuhlman. Mr. Fearnley shares his extensive background in teaching and his connection to the district as an alumnus, emphasizing the pro...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton Orchestra Program. This episode features the Orchestra Teacher, Mrs. Heithaus, and two student participants, Erma Muminovic and Spencer Slavik, who discuss their involvement and passion for music. They highlight the program's offerings for grades six through twelve, detail their upcoming Halloween-th...

In this episode of the "Affton Unplugged" podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton Band Program. Featured guests include the Band Director Mr. Curtis Schroyer and three students—Abbi Singer, Denis Gralike, and James McCann—who share their experiences and passion for music. Discussion points include the sense of community and camaraderie within the band, the dedication required fo...

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton High School girls tennis team. The episode features the team's coach, Beth Daniels, a longtime Affton resident and former player, along with two senior players, Miranda Yeates and Emily Wilson. The discussion covers the history of the tennis program, including its start in 1975, discontinuation in 19...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights an Advanced Placement (AP) U.S. Government and Politics class at Affton High School. Teacher Tony Muyco and several senior students discuss their participation in the C-SPAN documentary project, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Students worked individually or in teams t...

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast features Superintendent Travis Bracht interviewing four IT professionals—Bill Wagner, Adam Jasinski, Rachel Watson, and Brandon Clark—from the Affton School District to celebrate National IT Professionals Day. The discussion highlights the diverse responsibilities of IT staff, extending beyond simple computer fixes to include network maintenance, securi...

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights what students and staff have enjoyed about the first few weeks of school. Teachers across various subjects and grade levels express enjoyment in reconnecting with students and colleagues, establishing routines, and introducing new topics.  Students, ranging from elementary to high school, frequently mention the...

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast introduces HOSA, Health Occupation Students of America, a national organization that prepares high school students for medical careers. Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews science teacher and HOSA sponsor Lizzie Closser, alongside students Alexis Hancock, Lillian Edwards, and Miranda Yeates, all rising seniors involved in the club. The discussion hi...

Welcome to Affton Unplugged with Superintendent Travis Bracht. In this episode, Dr. Cassandra Suggs joins the podcast to share her personal and professional journey — from a journalism and TV career (including interviews with Michael Jordan and working with Oprah) to becoming an educator and administrator. Dr. Suggs talks about her family, her start in English language learning (ELL), her transiti...

Welcome to the latest episode of Affton Unplugged, a podcast by the Affton School District that highlights the people and stories that make the district great. Join Superintendent Travis Bracht as he sits down with the Affton Parents Club (APC) President, Emily Grozdanic. In this episode, Emily shares upcoming events and initiatives for the 2025-26 school year. Discover how this dynamic group supp...

Join Superintendent Travis Bracht in this special episode of "Affton Unplugged," where we celebrate the remarkable journey of the Affton School District's Class of 2025. On the day of their graduation at Chaifetz Arena, these graduates shared heartfelt messages to their kindergarten selves, offering advice and reflections on their past experiences. Through candid and inspiring conversations, hear...

Welcome to another episode of Affton Unplugged, where we delve into the world of Rogers Middle School’s undefeated boys volleyball team. Join Superintendent Travis Bracht as he hosts an insightful discussion with Coach Natalie Kilgore, who shares her experiences fostering both teamwork and individual growth among her students. Discover how experienced players led their team to a victorious season...

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, featuring heartfelt conversations with our dedicated English Language Learner (ELL) staff from the Affton School District. In this episode, Superintendent Travis Bracht sits down with ELL teachers to explore the vibrant stories and impactful work happening in our diverse school community. From inspiring personal journeys to the extraordinary sup...

Join us on this special episode of Affton Unplugged, as we dive into Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. Host Superintendent Travis Bracht opens with a heartfelt message to express gratitude for the dedication, passion, and commitment our teachers and staff bring to the Affton School District. Hear firsthand from school leaders and students who share their appreciation and stories about the impac...

In this episode of Affton Unplugged, we introduce Joe Krabbe, the newest member of the Affton School District's Board of Education. As an Affton alumnus and passionate community advocate, Joe shares his journey from growing up in Affton to becoming a board member, driven by his love for the community and school district. With a strong belief in teamwork and service, Joe discusses his past roles in...

Join Superintendent Travis Bracht in this engaging episode of Affton Unplugged as we take you inside Rogers Middle School's Drama Club. Get an exclusive look behind the curtain with Mr. Murphy, the dedicated drama club sponsor, and meet the talented students gearing up for their production of "The Absolutely True Story of King Arthur." Discover how this unique rendition blends classic legends with...

Welcome to an inspiring episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the dedicated educators retiring from the Affton School District. Join us in honoring Amy Todt, Sheri Hogland, and Jeff Wulfert as they reflect on their remarkable careers, share cherished memories, and offer words of wisdom for the next generation of teachers. Through candid interviews, this episode...

In this episode of the “Affton Unplugged” podcast, hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, the focus is on South Technical High School, a comprehensive career and technical education center located in St. Louis County. The program features Principal Dr. Jake Lohse alongside three senior students from Affton High School—Connor Lang, Owen Bell, and Natalie Jobe—who share their experiences in various...

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, where we offer an abbreviated recap and reminisce about the unforgettable moments from the 20th Annual Affton Education Foundation Hall of Fame Gala. Held at the Judith Rethwisch Auditorium, this event celebrated not just the foundation's milestone anniversary but also Judy Rethwisch’s 60 years in teaching. Join us as we hear heartfelt stories a...