Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Principal of Newport Elementary, Dr. Laurie Garris, to explore her 27-year journey in education, community building, and leadership. Discover her insights on fostering resilient school culture, supporting teacher growth, and the importance of relationships in education.

#bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3district #bpd3family #teachers #principal #bpd3podcast

In this episode:

• Dr. Garris' educational journey from classroom teacher to school leader
• The influence of a favorite teacher and early childhood experiences on her career
• How her special education background shapes her leadership style
• The evolution of the Newport community and its resilient spirit
• Strategies for supporting teachers' professional growth and encouraging innovation
• The significance of family, community, and tradition in her school leadership
• Practical advice for staff and new teachers pursuing advanced degrees
• Maintaining open communication with students and families
• How Newport fosters a love for reading, STEM, and lifelong learning
• Personal anecdotes, favorite school traditions, and current binge-worthy shows

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Laurie Garris and her impact on Newport Elementary
02:24 - Early influences: favorite teacher Mr. DeFeo and childhood education experiences
04:48 - Transition into special education and advocacy for diverse learners
07:08 - Leadership philosophy shaped by special education background
09:36 - Supporting differentiation and innovation in the classroom
10:02 - Pursuit of advanced degrees while working full-time
13:22 - The power of perseverance and district support in professional growth
16:40 - Evolution of the Newport community and school resilience
19:37 - The rewarding aspects of transitioning from teacher to principal
22:54 - Celebrating school traditions like Reading Night and STEM activities
24:20 - Creating an open-door culture for students and staff
26:15 - Empowering teachers to experiment and grow professionally
28:33 - Communicating with parents and fostering a family-like atmosphere
36:30 - Helping students transition to middle school and fostering independence
38:33 - Favorite school spirit days and school events
39:42 - Personal life updates: daughters’ careers and their journey in education
41:11 - Daily routines: starting the day with reading and reflection
42:37 - Favorite concerts and memorable events post-COVID
44:12 - Why Beach Park District 3 is a district for career growth
45:28 - Closing thoughts and gratitude for the education community

Resources & Links:

• Beach Park District 3 Employment Opportunities
• Newport Elementary School

Connect with Dr. Laurie Garris:

• LinkedIn Profile
• Twitter

Summary

In this episode of Beach Park Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Frank Adams, the Director of Finance for Beach Park District 3. The conversation explores Frank's unique journey from fine arts to finance, the complexities of managing a school district's budget, and the importance of financial health in education. Frank shares insights on how finance impacts teachers and students, the misconceptions surrounding school funding, and the collaborative culture within the district. The episode concludes with light-hearted questions that reveal Frank's personality and interests, emphasizing the importance of community and support in education.

Takeaways

• Frank Adams transitioned from fine arts to finance, driven by a desire to help students.
• The budget in a school district is complex and cannot be rigidly adhered to.
• Finance in education involves more than just numbers; it impacts the entire school community.
• There are strict regulations governing how school funds can be spent, debunking the myth of a 'big pot of money.'
• Frank emphasizes the importance of prioritizing student needs when making financial decisions.
• The financial health of Beach Park District 3 has improved significantly due to evidence-based funding.
• Frank believes in saying 'yes' to initiatives that positively affect students, within budget constraints.
• Continued education and professional development for teachers are crucial for retention and attraction.
• Frank's personal interests include music, gardening, and metalsmithing, showcasing his diverse talents.
• The culture at Beach Park District 3 is family-oriented, fostering collaboration and support.

  Sound bites

"It's not just one big pot of money."

"I make precious metal jewelry."

"Learn about your retirement."

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to "Beach Park Beyond the Bell" — HR in the car with Frank Adams
00:28 - Frank’s background in arts, transition to education, and current role
02:25 - Frank’s journey from teaching deaf and hard of hearing students to district finance
03:53 - Understanding the responsibilities of district finance beyond numbers
05:47 - The importance of strategic planning & phased projects
09:07 - Advice for new teachers: managing pressure and understanding budgets
10:49 - How financial health supports district initiatives and staff development
12:15 - Fun fact: swapping jobs and supporting student nutrition
15:15 - Behind the scenes: district support areas like facilities, technology, and risk management
17:36 - Clarifying common misconceptions about district funds and budgeting rules
19:26 - Planning large projects
20:51 - The role of taxpayer and state funding and the transition to evidence-based funding
22:18 - District’s financial health
23:44 - Prioritizing student staff and needs
24:44 - Attracting and retaining high-quality teachers
25:50 - Supporting staff continuing education and professional growth
26:47 - Exciting district projects: after-school clubs and technology improvements
28:42 - Equity in resource allocation: how district projects are prioritized and implemented
30:06 - Final thoughts from Frank on finance, advice for newcomers, and personal hobbies
31:27 - Frank’s favorite music, concerts, and fun facts about jam bands
35:34 - Hidden talents: metalsmithing and gardening adventures
36:32 - Advice for new teachers: financial literacy and retirement planning
37:27 - What Frank loves most about the district and its community
38:54 - Gratitude, family-like environment, and closing thoughts on district unity

Keywords #bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #csbo #teachers #bpd3district

Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Laura Cappozzo, a dedicated Speech Language Pathologist at Beach Park District 3. Laura shares her journey into the field of speech pathology, her experiences in education, and the importance of communication in student development. She discusses the collaborative culture within the district, the support for new staff, and the significance of vocabulary in education. The conversation also touches on work-life balance, personal connections, and the unique culture of Beach Park District 3 that fosters professional growth and appreciation among staff.

#bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #bpd3district #SLP #Teachers

Takeaways

Laura Cappozzo has been a Speech Language Pathologist in Beach Park since 2006.

She is involved in various committees including PBS and MTSS.

SLPs work on speech sound disorders, language building, and comprehension.

AAC devices help facilitate communication for students with speech challenges.

Internships in both medical and educational settings guide SLPs' career paths.

Collaboration among teachers and specialists is crucial for student success.

Vocabulary is essential for comprehension and expression in education.

Beach Park District 3 has a supportive culture for professional development.

Mentorship is key for new clinicians entering the field.

Personal connections and friendships enhance the work environment.

Soundbites

"Make a friend, be present."

"Life happens, family is first."

"I love my job. I love my kids."

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Laura’s 20-year journey in Beach Park District 3
02:10 - What does an elementary speech-language pathologist do?
04:16 - The training and internships that shaped Laura’s career
08:08 - Transition from hospital to school-based speech therapy
11:47 - Supporting classroom teachers' understanding of communication challenges
14:49 - Insights into district culture and early career surprises
18:12 - District's support for staff onboarding and mentorship programs
22:39 - Advice for new teachers and clinicians in their first 90 days
23:36 - Celebrating student successes and their profound impact on Laura’s work
26:14 - Collaboration with the entire educational team
28:54 - Continuous professional growth and district support for development
30:51 - Personal stories of community, friendships, and district culture at Oak Crest
34:25 - Theories behind district camaraderie and supported staff relationships
36:22 - The balance of professional dedication and personal life
37:39 - Highlighting staff, mentorship, and the district’s supportive environment
41:17 - Handling life’s unexpected moments and district flexibility
44:02 - The unique benefits of working in Beach Park District 3
45:40 - The importance of authentic storytelling through the podcast
47:09 - Fun questions: morning person, favorite games, concerts, and more
54:02 - Personal passions, family, and hobbies
58:56 - Final thoughts, appreciation, and encouragement for prospective staff

Keywords

Speech Language Pathology, Education, Beach Park District 3, Communication Challenges, Professional Development, Team Collaboration, Mentorship, Student Success, Work-Life Balance, Recruitment

Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Bettina Golwitzer, a Board of Education member and HR professional, about her experiences in the Beach Park community. They discuss the importance of community engagement, the role of HR in education, and the impact of recognition on school culture. Bettina shares her journey as a parent and volunteer, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity and collaboration in fostering a thriving educational environment. The conversation also touches on future trends in education, conflict resolution, and the heart of the district being its people.

#bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3family #bpd3podcast #bpd3district #teachers

Takeaways

Bettina has been a resident of Beach Park for 20 years.

Community engagement is crucial for a thriving school environment.

HR experience influences her perspective on school board decisions.

Recognition of staff and students fosters a positive culture.

AI is a significant trend that education must prepare for.

Conflict resolution requires calmness and understanding both perspectives.

Volunteering for small events can make a big impact.

The heart of the district lies in its people and community.

Inclusivity is essential for a thriving educational culture.

Bettina aims to leave a lasting positive impact on the district.

Titles

HR in the CAR: A Community Conversation

Building a Thriving Educational Environment

sound bites

"The people are the heart of our district."

"I'm always here to listen."

"I want to see other people be successful."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to HR in the CAR

02:46 Community and Education Connection

06:07 The Role of HR in Education

08:53 Personal Experiences and Community Involvement

11:31 Volunteer Spirit and School Activities

14:32 The Importance of Inclusivity

17:21 Navigating Challenges in Education

20:38 The Future of Education and Workforce Trends

23:31 Building Relationships and Communication

26:18 Personal Wellness and Balance

29:30 Legacy and Impact on the Community

Keywords

Beach Park, education, community, HR, school board, volunteer, recognition, conflict resolution, future trends, engagement

Keywords

education, library services, digital citizenship, Beach Park District 3, teaching journey, educational technology, literacy, STEAM programs, school libraries, teacher support

Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Charles Ongena, the Coordinator of Library and Media Services at Beach Park District 3. They discuss Charles's journey in education, his experiences in the district, and the evolving role of libraries in supporting literacy and technology. Charles shares insights on digital citizenship, STEAM programs, and the unique aspects of Beach Park's libraries. He emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity and creativity in students while providing support to teachers. The conversation highlights the collaborative and innovative spirit of Beach Park District 3, encouraging educators to embrace the process of teaching and learning.

Takeaways

Charles Ongena's journey in education began with a job at the Forest Preserve.

The importance of real-world applications of learning in education.

Teaching is about following instincts and having fun.

Libraries have evolved into hubs of learning and creativity.

Digital citizenship is essential in today's educational landscape.

STEAM programs are crucial for engaging students in learning.

Beach Park District 3 supports innovative ideas and programs.

The library is a resource for both students and staff.

Embracing the process of teaching is key to success.

Support and collaboration are vital in the educational community.

#bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #bpd3district #teachers #teacherpodcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

02:18 Charles Ongena's Journey in Education

09:23 Career Path and Experiences in Beach Park

18:03 The Role of Coordinator of Library and Media Services

20:06 Shout Out to Mrs. Ongena

21:14 Understanding Library and Media Services

24:52 Shout Out to the Library Staff

25:06 How the Library is Organized

26:19 How Many Books In The Library

28:43 Middle School Shout Out

31:06 What Makes the Beach Park Library Unique

31:23 Unique Aspects of Beach Park Community and Libraries

34:23 The Role of Libraries in Education

35:35 Advice for Sparking Curiosity in the Library

36:35 Shift In Library Space Utilization

36:50 Sparking Curiosity and Dynamic Learning

40:34 Innovative Resources and Technology in Libraries

42:49 Future Vision for Library Media Centers

44:06 Supporting Teachers and Collaboration

47:58 The Pioneering Spirit of Beach Park District 3

48:50 What Keeps Me in Beach Park

49:44 Advice for Struggling Teachers

50:58 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

53:29 Books, eBooks, or Audio Books

54:17 If I wasn't in the Library, I would've...

55:16 What other than Books in my Library?

56:08 Best Concert Experience

57:02 Energy Boost for the Day

Summary

In this conversation, Traci provides valuable insights for teachers feeling overwhelmed by new educational demands. She emphasizes the importance of selecting a few key areas to focus on and mastering them, rather than trying to do everything at once. This approach not only alleviates stress but also fosters continuous improvement in teaching practices.

Takeaways

You don't have to do it all.

Pick the right things and do them well.

You will get better every year.

Focus on what you can do well.

Add stuff as you go.

Focus on important things.

Titles

Overcoming Teacher Overwhelm

Mastering the Art of Teaching

Sound bites

"You don't have to do it all."

"Add stuff as you go."

"Focus on important things."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beach Park District 3 and Tracy Griffiths

02:31 Tracy's Journey in Education

06:10 Transitioning to Leadership Roles

06:21 Scariest Part of Transitioning to Leadership

09:41 The Role of Director of Teaching and Learning

12:42 Director Duties

13:14 Professional Development Challenges

16:31 Community and Culture in Beach Park

17:00 Why I Lead in BPD3

19:51 Cohesiveness in Curriculum

20:07 When the Teacher is Overwhelmed

21:27 Teaching Spotlight

23:12 Future Directions and Innovations

26:50 What People Say about BPD3: Student Centered

28:06 Opportunities for Teacher Growth

30:03 Shout Out to Instructional Coaches

31:45 The Role of Discretion in Coaching

37:00 Lighthearted Quickfire Questions

39:44 If I Could Travel Anywhere

40:42 Best Concert I've Been To

41:41 Pursuing Higher Education

44:57 Purpose of the Podcast

Keywords

teaching advice, overwhelmed teachers, education strategies, quality teaching, teacher development

Summary

In this conversation, the importance of patience and self-compassion for new teachers is emphasized. The speaker shares personal insights on navigating the challenges of starting a teaching career, highlighting that mistakes are part of the learning process and that embracing the journey is essential.



Takeaways

Be patient with yourself as a new teacher.

Mistakes are part of the learning process.

Teaching can be a beautiful mess.

Self-compassion is crucial in education.

Embrace the journey of becoming a teacher.

Give yourself grace during challenging times.

Support from peers can be invaluable.

Every teacher's journey is unique.

Learning from mistakes leads to growth.

Teaching is a continuous learning experience.



Sound bites

"Be patient with yourself."

"It's going to be a beautiful mess."

"Give yourself some grace."



Keywords

education, teaching, advice, new teachers, patience, grace



Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Beyond the Bell Podcast

02:06 Mrs. Sherry Ballard's Journey in Education

03:31 What's been your teaching journey in BPMS?

04:59 Middle School Students Explorer Journey

05:52 Transitioning to Middle School Teaching

07:49 When Did I know Teaching Was My Calling

09:04 What Do You Love Most About Working in Education

09:31 The Excitement of STEM Education

09:46 The Vibe of Mrs. Ballard's Classroom

12:04 Student Celebration

12:49 How Do You Define a Successful Day in the Classroom

13:14 Core Belief That Guides My Work

13:18 Building a Supportive Community in Education

13:57 Best Park of my BPMS Team!!

14:35 Here's What Keeps Me in Beach Park

15:08 What to Expect in BPD3

16:38 Reflections on Growth and Change

17:37 Coilleague Shout Out

18:22 Advice for a New Teacher

18:49 Advice for a Struggling Teacher

19:43 Quick Fire Questions

20:23 Personal Insights and Fun Facts

23:22 Best Advice I've Every Received

23:29 Best Concert I've Ever Attended

24:01 Advice for New and Struggling Teachers

25:13 Why I'm On Beyond The Bell

27:53 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

In this engaging episode of "HR in the Car," Dr. Denise Wilcox shares her journey from Michigan to becoming the superintendent of Beach Park District 3. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, fostering a positive climate culture, and the district's vision for excellence. Dr. Wilcox emphasizes the value of feedback, the joy of learning, and the district's commitment to sparking curiosity and creating core memories for students.

Keywords

Dr. Denise Wilcox, Beach Park District 3, climate culture, education, feedback, curiosity, core memories, superintendent, HR in the Car, school excellence

Takeaways

• Building relationships is key to integrating new staff.
• Positive climate culture is crucial for student growth.
• Feedback is an opportunity for learning and improvement.
• Curiosity should be encouraged in educational settings.
• Dr. Wilcox's journey from teacher to superintendent.
• The district's vision for Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.
• Importance of creating core memories in education.
• Dr. Wilcox's passion for curriculum and instruction.
• The role of leadership in fostering a supportive environment.
• The joy of learning and its impact on students.

Title Options

• Building a Culture of Excellence with Dr. Denise Wilcox
• From Teacher to Superintendent: Dr. Wilcox's Journey
• The Power of Feedback in Education
• Sparking Curiosity and Creating Core Memories
• Beach Park District 3: A Vision for Excellence
• Dr. Wilcox on Climate Culture and Student Growth
• The Joy of Learning with Dr. Denise Wilcox
• HR in the Car: Insights from Dr. Wilcox
• Leadership and Learning in Beach Park District 3
• Creating a Supportive Educational Environment

Sound bites

"Building relationships is key."

"Climate culture makes all the difference."

"Feedback is an opportunity to learn."

"Curiosity should be encouraged."

"Creating core memories for students."

"The joy of learning is impactful."

"Leadership fosters a supportive environment."

"Vision for Blue Ribbon Schools."

"Passion for curriculum and instruction."

"From teacher to superintendent."

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 00:00:00 Dr. Wilcox's Origin Story
• 00:00:00 Journey to Beach Park District 3
• 00:00:00 Importance of Climate Culture
• 00:00:00 Feedback and Learning
• 00:00:00 Vision for Excellence
• 00:00:01 Sparking Curiosity and Core Memories
• 00:00:01 Conclusion and Future Plans