The Nest Podcast

What if your child’s stress could lead to life-altering decisions? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. David Haug, Superintendent of Jefferson R-7 School District, as he sheds light on the pressing challenges our schools face today. In this episode, Dr. Haug discusses the recent threats affecting our communities and the critical importance of communication between parents and childre...

Join us as Dr. Haug candidly shares his experiences and the difficult choices he had to make in ensuring the safety and well-being of his students. He takes us through the steps his team took, from involving counselors to the School Resource Officer, and how they navigated the complex decision-making process of when to communicate these concerns to parents and the community.  Dr. Haug also gives u...

Revisit the vibrant journeys of Jefferson R-7's Class of 2014 with Superintendent David Haug, as he reconnects with Claire Johnston, Cole Lankford, and Jacob Hill to explore their remarkable post-graduation lives. Claire reveals her shift from an agriculture degree to becoming a dedicated middle school English teacher in Illinois, while Cole recounts his evolution from an athletic scholarship...

Ever wondered how a school district can revolutionize its communication with parents and the community? Join us as we uncover the Jefferson R-7 School District's groundbreaking efforts to enhance accessibility and transparency. Hear from Superintendent David Haug, who unveils the district's new streamlined one-page communication tool, a game-changer following last year's traffic flo...

Ever wondered how a well-rounded high school experience can set the stage for an ambitious military career? Join me, David Haug, as I chat with Catryn Cattoor, a 2021 Jefferson R-7 graduate, who recently embarked on a life-changing journey to Italy through her Air Force officer development training. Catryn shares her firsthand experience working with NATO, the balance of academic rigor at Washingt...

Discover how over $47 million in energy assistance can transform the lives of families in need, as Page Selby from Ameren joins me, David Haug, for a compelling conversation on the powerful impact of support programs like LIHEAP and Dollar More. You'll learn the ins and outs of accessing these resources, and how a mere half-hour a month could unravel opportunities for financial relief, includ...

Discover the undercurrents shaping our educational landscape as David Haug, Superintendent of Jefferson R-7 School District, joins us to navigate the choppy waters of school budgeting and the legislative tides that could reshape our children's future. With a $2.5 million shortfall looming and the closure of the Ameren Rush Island plant threatening to rock the boat, this conversation is an urg...

As our district stands on the precipice of change with the Ameren Rush Island plant closure, we unpack the intricate tapestry of financial and community implications that await. We venture into the complexity of the securitization process in Missouri, unwrapping the layers of strategy our school district is employing to stay afloat amidst the fiscal unknowns. Confidence resonates through our discu...

Navigating the complex tides of school district budgeting has never felt so urgent. That's why, as your host David Haug, I take you on a journey through the financial intricacies and challenges we face in the Jefferson R-7 School District. Expect an unflinching look at the delicate interplay of local and state funding, corporate contributions, and the pressing need for transparency as we asse...

As the twilight of nostalgia settles in, join me in welcoming Brendan Hall and Hailey Null, Jefferson R7 alumni, who bring the past to life with tales of their inaugural graduation class. Their shared memories of a senior campout and the whistle signals that once orchestrated their daily school life resonate with the intimate spirit of a community in its nascent stage. We traverse the territory of...

Embark on an exploratory mission as David Haug and the remarkable Tina Basler join forces to dissect the MSIP 6 survey findings, revealing a tapestry of character and collaboration that defines our school district. Together, we look beyond mere academic achievement to celebrate our collective Character Ed Certification, a testament to the profound commitment to shaping lives with integrity. The in...

Embark on an extraordinary voyage with Bradley Glass, a Jefferson R-7 School District graduate who navigated his way to the esteemed halls of the United States Naval Academy. Our heart-to-heart on today's episode unravels the tapestry of his journey—from the stirring surprise of his acceptance to the pivotal role our Lego Robotics program played in his development. The raw emotions shared wit...

Struggling to find suitable mental health resources for your child? This episode is your key to unlocking accessible help. Join me, Steve Horn, as I navigate the intricacies of Aspen, a platform revolutionizing mental health care in our county, with Jacqueline Brown from Aspen Network Incorporated, and Billie Hartgrove, the Mental Health Coordinator for the DeSoto School District. Jacqueline enlig...

What if there was an effortless way to ensure our children's safety in schools while also creating a warm and welcoming environment? It sounds like a daunting task, but Superintendent David Howe and Officer Brent Nanny are making it happen. With a shared vision and collaborative efforts, they're working tirelessly to strike the perfect balance. This episode pulls back the curtain on thei...

Confused about how to apply for free and reduced meals in schools? Get ready to gain valuable insights as Superintendent of Schools at Jefferson, David Haug, and Food Service Director, Mrs. Donica Wagner, guide you through the process. We explore the recent financial changes affecting eligibility, and how the number of household members plays a significant role in the application. We also remind l...

Are you looking to unravel the secrets of efficient school transportation management? We've got Amy Manns, the new transportation director of the Jefferson R-7 School District, sharing her strategies on enhancing traffic flow and bus safety without draining your pockets. We're dissecting the new start and dismissal times at Danby School and their role in easing traffic congestion. We&apo...

Have you ever wondered about the challenges and triumphs of creating a brand-new school from scratch? This episode lets you in on this fascinating journey, with our guests, Mark Ruark and Suzanne Richardson, the first principal and counselor respectively, of Jefferson High School. From finding their roles to the intricacies of establishing a new academic institution, Mark and Suzanne share it all,...

As we reminisce about the incredible progress and achievements of the Jefferson R-7 School District, we were honored to be joined by the man who's been at the helm for 13 years, Mr. Clint Johnston. From our very first high school graduation to implementing one-to-one technology, we discuss the challenges and successes that have shaped our district. Most importantly, we delve into the vital ro...