The Burton Experience Podcast

In this episode of The Burton Experience Podcast , we shine a light on Oak Grove Lighthouse School and the dedicated educators, staff, and students who make it a special place to learn and grow. Join us as we explore the school's unique approach to supporting student success, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive. We won't want to miss t...

In our final Burton Experience Podcast: On the Road school site tour episode, we visit SCA Lombardi to hear from IB learners and Librarian Alicia as they share what makes the Lombardi experience so special. From building leadership and global awareness to learning through curiosity and collaboration, students reflect on what it truly means to be an IB learner. Tune in for an inspiring conversation...

In this episode of The Burton Experience Podcast: On the Road, we stop at Burton Middle School to hear directly from students about one of the biggest transitions in their school journey—moving from elementary to middle school. Students open up about the nerves, fears, and unknowns they faced at first, and how those feelings changed once they got involved, made connections, and tried new things. F...

We took The Burton Experience Podcast on the road to our dual-language campus, SCA–Mathew, where English and Spanish come together in a vibrant learning community. Joined by our energetic host, TK teacher Señora Pilar Orosco, she sat down with students to talk all about their Burton Experience. From their day-to-day lives on campus to what inspires and motivates them, these students share honest,...

The Burton Experience Podcast hits the road for a special Student Takeover episode from William R. Buckley Elementary!  5th grader Skye takes the lead, sitting down with our Superintendent for an authentic, student-driven conversation. With the freedom to ask anything, Skye dives into topics like campus visits, student choice in learning, and what truly makes the Burton Experience meaningful. Alon...

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we highlight the powerful role teachers play in preparing students for their future careers. Hear from our middle school CTE wheel teachers, Mrs. Samantha Cook and Mr. Samuel Novinger, as they share how hands-on learning and real-world experiences are helping students build essential industry skills. From exploring different career pathways to deve...

In this episode, we sit down with our Band Directors from our middle schools and high school to explore the world behind the music. They share what it takes to run a successful band program, the rewards of teaching, and how being in band helps students grow in confidence, teamwork, and life skills beyond the classroom. Tune in to hear the passion, dedication, and stories that make the Burton band...

In this episode, we explore our Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program and challenge common assumptions about what it means to be “gifted.” Moving beyond traditional achievement measures, we discuss how giftedness often connects to how a GATE student’s brain functions—how they learn, process information, and experience the world. Giftedness is not simply about test scores or performance; it’...

In this episode, we dive into all the ways learning comes to life after the bell rings in our ELOP program! Joined by Elizabeth Spindler and Mayra Castaneda, we spotlight Burton’s after-school programs and the exciting opportunities waiting for students — from clubs and enrichment activities to sports and hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and joy. Elizabeth and Mayra share how ELOP creates...

This episode of the Burton Experience Podcast focuses on the Burton Experience for our TK & Kindergarten learners . Hear from our TK/Kinder teachers as they share what inspired them to teach, why these early years matter, how they balance play-based learning with academics, and advice for families preparing to start TK or Kindergarten. Tune in for insight, heart, and a behind-the-scenes look a...

In this Burton Experience Podcast episode, we sit down with Summit High School’s legendary trio — Mr. Cox, Mr. Wanmer, and Mr. Gasca, better known as the History Bros. Together, they bring humor, heart, and a whole lot of passion to the world of high school history. Listen in as they share what drew them to teaching, how they build meaningful connections with students, and the unique energy they b...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Gilbert Bareng, CEO of Bareng Corp, and Julieta Cisneros from Summit High School to highlight a powerful partnership that brought real-world learning to life. Together, they share the story behind this summer’s Summit–Bareng Corp Internship, where students stepped into a professional environment, gained hands-on experience, and discovered new passions an...

Join Victoria Carranza and Jimena Garcia, our IB Ambassadors from Summit Charter Intermediate Academy, as they share their journey in the IB Ambassador Program on the Burton Experience Podcast. Hear about the leadership skills they’ve developed, the impact they’ve made in their school community, and why they encourage other students to get involved. Tune in for inspiring stories and a closer look...

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we sit down with Dane Guelker, Director of Maintenance, Operations, and Transportation (MOT). Dane shares his journey back to Burton, what inspires his leadership, and the value of strong community partnerships. He also gives listeners a glimpse into the exciting opportunities for high school interns in his department and shares his vision for the...

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we sit down with Transportation Manager Dave Delk, who has dedicated over 28 years to serving Burton students and families. Dave shares how his team goes the extra mile to provide safe, meaningful experiences for kids—not just rides to and from school. His story is one of servant leadership, commitment, and a heart that always puts students first....

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast , we sit down with campus supervisors Greg Rogers and Sarah Oceguera from Burton Middle School. They open up about their unique journeys, what the Burton Experience means to them, and how they connect with students every day. From building strong campus culture to supporting student success, Greg and Sarah share how their roles go far beyond supervi...

In this inspiring episode of the Burton Experience Podcast , we sit down with Blain Smothermon, District Athletic Director and ELOP Coordinator, and Albert Solis, PE teacher at Burton Middle School. These two passionate educators share their personal journeys through sports — from the life lessons learned on the field to how athletics shaped who they are today.  Blain and Albert dive into how thei...

In this episode, we sit down with our passionate Ag teachers from Summit Collegiate High School to talk about the importance of agriculture and FFA. Agriculture is more than just raising animals—it’s about understanding where our food comes from, appreciating the industry that sustains us, and developing leadership skills that last a lifetime. Listen as our Ag teachers share how FFA helps students...

In this exciting new episode, we sit down with our incredible VAPA team to explore the transformative power of the arts and how it impacts every aspect of a child’s development. From supporting the whole child to inspiring both students and staff alike, our VAPA team shares their passion for creating opportunities that foster creativity, growth, and self-expression. But that’s not all! Get ready t...

On the latest Burton Experience Podcast, we explore the Leader in Me program, which is implemented across various campuses in our district! This episode features inspiring conversations with two of our students, Oak Grove Elementary and William R. Buckley, who sit down with Superintendent David Shimer to share their experiences. Hear, from the student perspective,  firsthand how the 7 Habits of Hi...

In this energetic episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, TK teachers Señora Orosco and Señora Fusick from SCA Mathew Campus, a Dual Immersion school, share their passion for teaching and the joy they find in helping young learners take their first steps in education. They discuss the most rewarding aspects of working with TK students and how the Dual Immersion program builds resilience and bili...

In this episode of the #BurtonExperience podcast, we shine a spotlight on two of our remarkable middle school students who attended Tech Trek at Fresno State, a one-week STEM summer camp sponsored by AAUW.  Hear firsthand how our students embraced this unique opportunity, their favorite moments from camp, and how they’re inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories are a testament...

In this special Veterans Day episode, we sit down with Board President Jay Rice, a Marine Veteran and dedicated Burton leader of 19 years. Jay shares his journey from military service to nearly two decades of guiding our district’s growth.  Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights on service, leadership, and the heart of the Burton Experience.  Thank you for tuning into "The...

In this episode of the Burton Experience Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Julissa Leyva, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and our district's safety officer. Dr. Leyva shares the comprehensive safety measures we have in place to ensure the well-being of both students and staff while on campus. Safety is a top priority, and it plays a critical role in creating a positive and secure env...

Take a listen to this insightful episode of the Burton Experience Podcast with Angelica Vasquez and Celina Cervantes! Learn how our Community Schools are connecting families and community partners to provide vital services that meet the needs of our students and families. This is how we elevate the Burton Experience for all!  Thank you for tuning into "The Burton Experience" podcast, whe...