Amazing Education Podcast

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High art teacher Lindsay Wede. We had an amazing conversation about how she approaches projects, getting students to engage with the art community, and whether art should be judged.

On this episode, we were joined by elementary teacher Laura Clausen. We had an amazing conversation about building relationships with students and what it means to be a kid magnet.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High boys basketball coach, Vance Downs. We had an amazing conversation about this year’s state championship, coaching in general, and then take time to walk down memory lane to revisit some of the most storied teams.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High teacher James Webb. We had an amazing conversation about the process that he went through to be a National Board Certified Teacher and how it reignited his passion for teaching.

On this episode, we were joined by the incoming superintendent of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Julious Lawson. We had an amazing conversation about the role of the superintendent and what he is most excited about heading into next year. 

On this episode, we were joined by Kristin Lewis, Associate Principal at OPN Architects. We had an amazing conversation on what it takes to design a large high school from concept to completion.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames Superintendent Dr. Paula Vincent. It’s school budget season and we had an amazing conversation about the process and considerations that are needed to set the fiscal budget for next school year.

On this episode, we were joined by Chris Snider from Drake University. We had an amazing conversation specifically about what parents should know as it relates to their students on social media and conversations that they can have at home.

On this episode, we were joined by Chris Snider from Drake University. We had an amazing conversation about the current landscape of social media, the pros and cons of the various platforms, and how it has evolved over time.

On this episode, we were joined by the elementary principal Jessica Sharp. We had an amazing conversation about Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support, including how it is implemented and how it can positively impact building culture.

On this episode, we were joined by the Ames Middle School Instructional Coach Erik Ringsby. We had an amazing conversation about the various roles he plays in supporting teachers and how he contributes to a healthy school culture.

On this episode, we were joined by the Health Services Supervisor of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Kathi Arnold. We had an amazing conversation about the differences between last year and this year related to COVID-19, key mitigation strategies, and what parents can expect for communication.

On this episode, we were joined by Erin Miller, Director of Teaching and Learning for Ames Schools. We had an amazing conversation about the curriculum review process, how the pandemic has interrupted learning in the classroom, and how to keep equity at the center of decision-making.

On this episode, we are joined by the interim superintendent of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Paula Vincent. We had an amazing conversation about the role of the superintendent and what she is most excited about heading into the next year.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Vijay Williams. We had an amazing conversation about social justice, what social media high school students are using, and his storytelling aspirations.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Makenzie Grim. We had an amazing conversation about what it’s been like to be a senior in a pandemic year and how she earned her CNA while in high school.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High junior Jason Vernon. We had an amazing conversation about his love of bees, beekeeping, hives, and harvesting honey.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Adam Wolf. We had an amazing conversation reflecting on his high school music career and how he approaches every situation with a sense of optimism.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High senior Yuer Zhu. We had an amazing conversation about her artwork, where the inspiration comes from, and talked through some of her amazing projects. 

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High students Alina Markutsya and Andrew Besch. We’re had an amazing conversation about the Storm Shelter, an Ames High student enterprise store, and all of the logistics that are required of operating a small business.

On this episode, we were joined by Ames High Ethics Bowl advisor Chad Zmolek. We had an amazing conversation about what an Ethics Bowl is, topics that students explore, and what their preparation looks like for competition.

On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Anthony Jones, Director of Equity for Ames Schools. We’re going to have an amazing conversation as we reflect on the Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action that took place at the beginning of February.

On this episode, we are joined by 5th-grade elementary teacher, Mary Hard. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about teaching 100% online: how to prepare for it, what a typical day looks like, and the inherent challenges for teachers and students.

On this episode, we are joined by the Emergency Management Coordinator of Ames Public Schools, Dr. Kathi Arnold. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the complexities that COVID-19 has had on schools and how she balances it all on the daily basis.

On this episode, we are joined by long time History and Government teacher Kristin Sullivan from Ames High School. We’re going to have an amazing conversation about the importance of engaging high school students in the election process and how to be an informed voter.