Let’s Talk, HCS

How does a school district really decide when to close schools for bad weather? It's not one person, one forecast, or one quick call. In this episode of Let's Talk HCS , we're recording from the Emergency Operations Center to pull back the curtain on how weather decisions are made. District leaders, transportation staff, a local meteorologist, and emergency management personnel all come together t...

In this episode of Let’s Talk HCS , Real Talk with David Carroll, Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and David take a year-end look at what’s working in Hamilton County Schools and what still needs attention. Dr. Robertson shares updates on school safety, building upgrades like controlled entrances, and key-fob access. He also highlights the value of relationships and the importance of students f...

In this Thanksgiving episode of Let’s Talk HCS , our superintendent sits down with Deputy Superintendent Stewart and community superintendents Dr. Shane Harwood, Dr. Marques Stewart, Dr. Elaine Harper, and Dr. Lee Ziegler to pause, reflect, and share what they’re most thankful for so far this school year. Parents will hear about: Why this has been one of the smoothest school openings in years Big...

This week on Let’s Talk HCS, we cook up a great conversation with the Director of School Nutrition and a registered dietitian. They explain how HCS serves 40,000 meals a day across 70+ schools. They also share how students can test and shape school menus. We also visit Orchard Knob Middle, where science teacher Sarah Roberson and her students launch a garden club to grow produce for school meals.

In this episode of Let’s Talk HCS: Real Talk , David Carroll sits down with Dr. Justin Robertson to pull back the curtain on what a superintendent really does—and how the job is judged. Carroll surprises Dr. Robertson with on-the-spot questions about his annual evaluation, the ins and outs of school funding, teacher hiring safeguards, shifting enrollment, and why School Choice programs can change...

In this episode of Let’s Talk, HCS , we dive into the history and impact of School Choice in Hamilton County Schools. We begin by talking with Jim Boles and Jill Levine, two veteran educators, who’ve led magnet programs like CSAS (Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences), Normal Park, and CCA (Chattanooga High Center for Creative Arts). They trace the early days of magnet schools in Chattanoo...

In this episode of Let's Talk HCS , Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson sits down with students from across Hamilton County Schools to share their experiences, achievements, and goals. From The Howard School, students reflect on leadership, welding certifications, and the rich history that creates a deeper sense of pride. At Lookout Valley Middle High, a freshman discusses the impact of sports and...

Superintendent Justin Robertson and David Carroll sit down to discuss new districtwide security standards for athletic events, board meetings, and rules for unaccompanied minors to ensure a safe environment at games. The conversation also addresses the ongoing challenges of school facilities and the new DuPont partnership with the North River YMCA. Carroll and the Superintendent also dive into the...

In this episode, we focus on the role of school facilities in shaping learning environments and student success. Board Member Gary Kuehn and Director of Facilities Justin Witt share stories from across Hamilton County Schools. Also, we highlight the challenges of maintaining 80+ buildings, the impact of modern design, and major projects like Tyner Academy and East Brainerd Elementary. We close wit...

In this episode, we spotlight Clifton Hills Elementary and Hixson High School and their commitment to personalization in the classroom and school building. Hear directly from educators about how personalization is the foundation for student learning and why it's vital that our students feel supported, cared for, and valued. We close with School Board Chair Joe Smith and Vice Chair Karitsa Mosley-J...

Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson sits down with David Carroll to discuss the upcoming opening of schools. Learn how the district has been preparing, updates for the year, and more.

HCS is launching a new district podcast: Let's Talk, HCS!