The Raider Reach

In this heartwarming episode of Raider Reach, we pull back the kitchen doors at Lumberton Intermediate School (LIS) to speak with two essential members of the Child Nutrition team: Manager Melissa Miller and staff member Thomas Smith, affectionately known as "Mr. Tom." They share the joy and dedication that goes into feeding our students, explaining that their job is about much more than just serv...

In this inspiring episode of the Raider Reach Podcast, host Meagan Hogg sits down with Lumberton ISD’s 2024–2025 District Teachers of the Year — Rhonda Croft and Nelsi Rizo — to celebrate their journeys, challenges, and the heart behind their classrooms. From special education breakthroughs to turning math into movement, these remarkable educators share stories of connection, perseverance, and pur...

In this heartwarming and educational episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Lumberton ISD's amazing Elementary Dyslexia Coordinators to discuss the vital work they do across our campuses. They share insights into the commitment, passion, and specialized instruction that helps our students unlock their full potential and build confidence that reaches far beyond the classroom. As one of our coord...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Lumberton Primary School’s Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Phyllis Hays. From homeschooling her children to becoming a second-grade teacher, Mrs. Hays shares her inspiring path to the classroom, the joy of watching students’ “light bulb moments,” and the importance of building relationships with students and families. With humor, honesty, and heart, she...

In the season two premiere of Raider Reach, host Meagan Hogg sits down with Lumberton High School A/V teacher Cole McKinstry and two of his students, Jaycee Westerterp and Brooke Vyoral. Together, they share how the A/V program has grown, the fun and challenges of running the Jumbotron on Friday nights, and the creativity behind student projects like short films and documentaries. From Spider-Man...

This week's Raider Reach Podcast introduces the new Lumberton Middle School Principal, David Mire. Mire shares his journey from student to principal, driven by a passion for education ignited during his time as a basketball coach. He emphasizes his commitment to fostering strong relationships with students, staff, and the community, believing that a supportive and engaging environment is key to st...

This week's Raider Reach Podcast features Lumberton ISD's Director of Safety and Security, Tim Lane, who shares insights from his 42-year career in law enforcement and his passion for school safety. He emphasizes that the district's top priority is creating a secure environment where students feel safe to learn, highlighting the importance of community partnerships, comprehensive staff training, a...

In this episode, we sit down with Vicki Mouton, Director of Career and Technical Education, to explore how CTE is preparing students for real-world success. From certifications and career pathways to industry partnerships and hands-on learning, Vicki shares how CTE is equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive beyond graduation.

In this episode, we sit down with the assistant principals of Lumberton High School—Joan Garza, Nikki Goad, Mona Harrell-Bodle, and Jason Morgan—for an honest, funny, and heartfelt conversation about their paths to leadership, what it means to support students beyond the classroom, and how teamwork makes the dream work. From bobbleheads and Jeep ducks to discipline with compassion, these leaders r...

In this episode, we sit down with three inspiring Assistant Principals from Lumberton ISD's elementary schools to discuss the rewarding journey of working with young students. From shaping future leaders to tackling daily challenges, these educators share their unique stories and experiences that highlight the joy and growth of elementary education. Listen as Leslie McDuffie, Lindsay Bass, and Emi...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Lumberton Middle School’s Assistant Principals, Jennifer Rinando and Ellen Hopson, to explore the heart, humor, and hustle behind middle school leadership. From unexpected daily adventures to powerful student connections, they share what it means to guide kids through the most transformative years of school. Whether you're a parent, educator, or ju...

In this special episode, we sit down with Lumberton ISD’s amazing Speech-Language Pathologists and Assistants to talk about the heart behind their work. From personal journeys and favorite college classes to touching success stories and helpful advice for parents, our SLP team shares why every voice matters. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious about the impact of speech therapy, thi...

In this heartfelt episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with the incredible school nurses from each Lumberton ISD campus. From managing daily medications and student health needs to offering a comforting presence and even a few laughs (yes, there's a screaming goat involved!), our nurses share the challenges and rewards of their vital role. Tune in to hear their stories, insights, and the impact th...

In this episode of Raider Reach, Fine Arts Director Jason Anderson discusses the powerful impact of fine arts on enriching students’ lives both in and out of the classroom. He highlights how participation in the arts fosters creativity, confidence, and collaboration, and emphasizes the vital role our incredible instructors play in guiding students toward success. Jason also shares how the continue...

In this episode of Raider Reach, Athletic Director Chase McDonald shares his journey from growing up in Lumberton and playing multiple sports to finding his calling in coaching after college at Stephen F. Austin. He reflects on the values that guide Lumberton ISD’s athletic program—integrity, accountability, and discipline—and emphasizes that true success goes beyond wins and losses. For McDonald,...

In Episode 21, we sit down with Dee Sims, Lumberton ISD’s Director of Transportation, to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the wheels turning every day. From 5 a.m. start times to over 600 trips and a quarter million miles traveled each year, Dee shares the heart, hustle, and humor behind the job—plus a few fun stories (spoiler: he’s a big Stitch fan). Tune in and show some lov...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with School Board Member and former administrator Margaret Cruse to hear her powerful story of dedication, growth, and heart. From her early days as a fourth-grade teacher to becoming a campus principal and now a valued voice on the Lumberton ISD School Board, Margaret reflects on the lessons she’s learned, the people who shaped her, and her unwavering...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Dr. Brackett, Director of Special Programs, to explore the heart and mission behind one of the district’s most impactful departments. From supporting diverse learning needs to building inclusive opportunities for every student, Dr. Brackett shares what drives his work, the challenges his team faces, and the powerful stories that keep him inspired....

In this special National School Librarian Appreciation Day episode, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible librarians across Lumberton ISD! Join us as we sit down with Meghan Davis (LECS), Tiffany Williford (LPS), Michelle LaRue (LIS), Nicki Greenhouse (LMS), and Renee Tijerina (LHS) to explore the magic happening in our school libraries. From fostering a love of reading to supporting student...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with our incredible curriculum leaders to discuss how they support teachers, inspire students, and drive innovation in education. These four rockstar educators share their passion for learning, the challenges they tackle daily, and their vision for the future. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how great teaching leads to great student success!

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Heather Fountain, Principal of Lumberton Early Childhood School, to talk about what makes early childhood education so special. Heather shares her 19-year journey in education, what it’s like to help shape young minds, and the incredible ways her school is building a strong foundation for lifelong learning. She also gives us a sneak peek into some...

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with April Deters, principal of Lumberton Primary School, to hear her inspiring and humorous journey through education. From her early days as an English teacher to becoming a librarian and then an administrator, April’s career journey is unique to her story. Ultimately, she found herself right back where she started—working with the youngest learners....

In this episode of Raider Reach Podcast, we chat with our District Maintenance Director, Chad Ard, to uncover the hard work and dedication that keeps our schools safe, functional, and welcoming for students and staff. From unexpected repairs to major facility upgrades, we explore the behind-the-scenes efforts that ensure a smooth school day for everyone. Tune in to hear about the challenges, funny...

In this episode of Raider Reach Podcast, we sit down with our dedicated middle school and high school diagnosticians to explore the crucial role they play in identifying and supporting student needs. Our diagnosticians share insights on the evaluation process, how they collaborate with teachers and families, and the strategies they use to help students reach their full potential. We also discuss h...

In part one of our special series celebrating Educational Diagnostician Week, we sit down with our four dedicated elementary diagnosticians to discuss the importance of early intervention and the resources available for parents. They share valuable insights on what to do if you suspect your child may have a disability and how they work to support every student's success.