School Talks

Dec. 7, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses school-related topics across Michigan. Bob Vought from Detour Area Schools discusses challenges with weather and student attendance, especially with students commuting from Drummond Island. Justin Thorington and Stiles Simmons later discuss student leadership initiatives and school facility upgrades, respectively. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz comp...

Nov. 30, 2025 ~ Robert Livernois discussed the stalled Michigan legislation on banning cell phones in schools with David Randels, who explained the legislative process, reasons for the stall, and differences between House and Senate versions. Anchor Bay High School Principal Mike McKenzie and teacher Kristen Anderson shared their positive experiences with their school’s self-imposed cell phone ban...

Nov. 25, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses the uncertainties superintendents face with federal education funding and policies, especially regarding special education and Title I. He also explores Michigan’s Grow Your Own program and Reverend Jim Holley's post-retirement plans for a new literacy and sports program for Detroit students. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm....

Nov. 16, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses how foster care programs can transform children’s lives by delivering support through reliable relationships. Plus, he looks at industry-student connection programs featuring facility visits, job shadowing, and hands-on learning experiences that help shape career trajectories while alleviating workforce gaps. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company....

Nov. 9, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about how educational institutions and regional service agencies play a vital role in workforce preparation, with Wayne RESA supporting Wayne County districts through comprehensive career readiness initiatives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertisin...

Nov. 2, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses the Carl Levin Center’s “Learning by Hearings” program, which teaches high school students about legislative oversight and democratic participation through inquiry-based learning that develops critical thinking skills using primary sources. He also explores Ferndale Public Schools’ comprehensive approach to student achievement, which combines data-dri...

Oct. 26, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses how team teaching and personalized learning approaches are revolutionizing education by addressing teacher retention while improving student outcomes through collaborative teaching environments and data-driven instruction. Cyber schools complement these innovations by providing flexible, technology-enabled learning environments that maintain high aca...

Oct. 19, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about MUST (Management and Union Serving Together), a unique organization formed in the late 1990s to ensure a screened and drug-free workforce in the unionized construction industry, fostering collaboration between construction associations and trade unions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our...

Oct. 12, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks to four educational leaders to share their visions and accomplishments, from Kaitlyn Gaynor’s community-focused music program at Warren Mott High School to Dan Roan and Greg Esler’s balanced approach at De La Salle Collegiate, Gail Ashburn’s innovative teaching methods as Macomb County Teacher of the Year, and Dr. Rachel Kowalski’s strategic leadership a...

Oct. 5, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois explores options for vocational training in Michigan, including short-term programs like Macomb Community College’s maritime initiative, which provides free, transferable skills for good jobs quickly. They address industry needs and offer personal progress. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collectio...

Sept. 28, 2025 ~ Manufacturing Week in Macomb County connects thousands of students with diverse career options. The initiative addresses talent shortages by rebranding manufacturing, moving beyond old perceptions. Companies should offer interactive tours, hands-on activities to inspire students, and highlight stable jobs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for i...

Sept. 21, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about how educators are invited to Educators Night, an open house on September 23rd, showcasing resources from Detroit’s Cultural Center institutions and non-profits. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sept. 14, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses the upcoming fall sports season with Michigan schools, including MHSAA’s current landscape and recent rule changes, sports balancing due to declining student populations, and attempting to retain and regain sporting officials following the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about...

Sept. 7, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses how various Michigan school districts are addressing student mental health, nutrition, and bus safety. Plus, it explores the way schools are offering PTO and increasing parental involvement. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug. 31, 2025 ~ Michigan schools currently handle student cell phone use differently, as there isn’t a statewide rule, with proposed legislation aiming to set cell phone policies stuck in budget debates. Host Robert Livernois dives into this debate to see where the divides lie and what potential solutions could be taken. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for inf...

Aug. 24, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois explores the educational plans of Michigan gubernatorial candidates, including Lieutenant Governor Garland Gilchrist, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for adve...

Aug. 17, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois dives into topics on school safety and student support around the state of Michigan, including school safety officers and how parents should create plans for their children in the case of an untimely parental death. Plus, he looks at new rules for Michigan schools that must establish behavioral threat assessment teams and standardized terminology for emergenci...

Aug. 10, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about how BUFF of Michigan aims to empower underserved youth, and various labor unions help students get interested in exploring a career in a trade. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug. 3, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about school safety and summer learning programs with Michigan public school districts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 27, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks to multiple contractors' associations and unions about providing trade construction opportunities for students amid Southeast Michigan's booming construction business. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 20, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses ways Michigan school districts are approaching local needs, including Huron Valley Schools implementing bond proposals to improve infrastructure and instructional programs, and Chippewa Valley Schools partnering with Wakely Associates to revitalize underutilized spaces. Plus, he looks at how the Mechanical Contractors Association of Detroit supports...

July 13, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois explores how Michigan public schools are navigating budget cuts in education, requiring schools to seek cost-effective solutions for mental health needs and academic outcomes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 6, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks to representatives from Michigan school districts, including Dearborn Schools, Van Dyke Public Schools, and Monroe Schoolsare tackling school meal access for students who need it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 29, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois discusses several topics related to public education, including how to make science lessons engaging, student newspapers, and helping students get college credit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 22, 2025 ~ Host Robert Livernois talks about local unions offering trade apprenticeships for heavy equipment operators, technicians, welding, and stationary engineers, along with the shortage in construction workers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.