Buried Treasure

Buried Treasure

Follow Buried Treasure
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

The Dayton School District has a brand-new podcast, Buried Treasure. Our hosts: Amy Fast (Superintendent of Dayton Schools) and John Bixler (Director of Technology) explore the untold or rarely heard stories of growth, passion, and hope buried within the small town of Dayton, OR. Our guest list include award-winning Dayton School District staff and community members, long-time residents, and change makers in our area. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Dayton School District.

Dayton School District


    • Apr 3, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 46m AVG DURATION
    • 33 EPISODES


    Search for episodes from Buried Treasure with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Buried Treasure

    Episode 33 - Otto and Robert

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 53:18


    Today we chat Safety and Security with Robert Osburn, the district's new dedicated maintenance staff, and Maintenance Director Otto Rice.We learn more about their history at the Dayton School District and their experiences in emergency services. Otto and Robert share how they work with our committees to improve the facilities and how they built a team with trust and high expectations. Hint: Collaboration is the key.Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 32 - Ashley Brown

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 41:51


    Welcome to episode 32 of Buried Treasure. In this episode we meet Ashley Brown. Ashley has been with the school district since 2022. She currently an instructional assistant at the Dayton Junior High in the Special Education Department.Together, we learn more about the traits of optimism, drive, and curiosity through the lens of Ashley's stories and experience.  She explains how routine and consistency can impact students; and how her passion is for education has blossomed in her new role.Thanks for listening! Enjoy the showThoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    buried treasure ashley brown special education department
    Episode 31 - Annette Frank

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 41:26


    Today we are joined Mayor of Dayton, Annette Frank.Annette shares how infrastructure, planning, and budgets play a vital role in developing a vibrant community. We learn more about the on-going construction in our downtown core, and, together, we dive deeper into the vision of building a community hub.Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 30 - Mitch and Claire

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 55:28


    Welcome to Episode 30 of Buried Treasure! Normally we uncover hidden stories from individuals in our community. This show is a little different as we look to demystify The Dayton School District's Agriculture Department. Today, we bring back Mitch Coleman and introduce Claire Coleman so they can share about the upcoming changes to the AG program.  Together, we honor Mitch's 35 years in this role, share some of the career highlights, and discuss the vision with Claire taking the lead next semester.  We hope you learning more about the show. Thanks for listening! Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 29 - Brody Jimenez

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 28:27


    In this show we speak with Dayton High School Sophomore, Brody Jimenez. Brody shares the benefits of a small school: small class sizes, community atmosphere, and opportunities in athletics. He demonstrates through his words and actions what it means to be a “Pirate” and follow our mission: Community, Integrity, and Hope; through his desire to help his community and be one of the “good guys” on campus. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 28 - Charlie Hascall

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 57:02


    Let's talk shop with Dayton High School Mechanics teacher, Charlie Hascall. In this episode we learn more about the "Taco Coupe", a student project that gained national attention at The Race of Gentlemen. We also learn more about how art and humanity influence the otherwise rugged craft of welding. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 27 - Lillie Brooks

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 60:57


    Join us for a conversions with Dayton High School Senior, Lillie Brooks. Lillie is a multi-sport athlete and student member of the Dayton School Board. We learn what drives her to be involved in her community. Lillie shares the pressures facing students today and what keeps her looking for hope. Laugh along with us as we learn more about Lillie. GO Pirates! Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 26 - Maria Elena Sandoval Perez

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 52:15


    Today we speak with Maria Elena Sandoval Perez; Dayton Alum, resident, and current parent. Maria shares her experiences growing this community, from the family nights to the football games. She provides insight into raising a family in a multi-lingual household. And we discuss how it is okay not to know all of the answers. The journey to improving is a path we all must take. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 25 - Bill Stoller

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 61:27


    We kick off season 2 of Buried Treasure with Dayton Alum, Bill Stoller. This influential member of the Dayton community shares stories from his youth, and the path that led to his successful career in business and industry. Together we discuss what makes Dayton a special place to live. We are so thankful for his time and commitment to the growth of this community. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 24 - Jamie Oliveira

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2024 43:50


    Today we speak with Dayton School District's Citizen of the Year: Jamie Oliveira. We learn more about Jamie and why he is so generous with his time and talents. We talk about the ABC Foundation's relationship with the school and share that communities grow stronger when we lift each other up. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 23 - Debbie Kearns

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2024 38:38


    Today we speak internships and career exploration with former teacher and board member Debbie Kearns. Debbie has been involved with our schools for over 30 years in a wide-range of roles. She shares why she made Dayton her home and how her childhood impacted her steady roll in this community. We welcome back Robin Van Buren to this show as well. Robin and Debbie compare the parallels of their roles and share what's next in the College and Career Readiness program. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 22 - Amy Webster

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2024 69:32


    Join us as we discuss advocacy and conflict resolution with photographer, volunteer, and fifth-generation resident, Amy Webster. Amy shares her experiences as a parent in our school system: what it is like to navigate the tough issues and how communications has changed significantly since the days of the "School Scene". Let us guide you through the process of mediation and learn that stronger relationships are be formed by navigating rough waters together. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 21 - Shane Wall

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 43:17


    Our desire with this podcast is to uncover the compelling and untold stories around our community. A passion that is also shared with our guest, Shane Wall of Valley Trademark. Whether it is high school basketball, trap shooting, or even a chess match (?) Shane is ready to document and share the experience. In this episode, we learn how this Dayton resident broke into the industry, what it takes to be noticed, and why Dayton SD could be the goldilocks of area schools. Thoughts and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    shane wall
    Episode 20 - Amy and John

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2024 47:21


    We "Meet the Hosts" in this episode. Our hosts Amy Fast and John Bixler share their own stories and backgrounds in education as we learn more about the people behind the podcast. They discuss the evolution of classroom technology, the emergence of artifical intellegence, and ... phobias? It's time to get vulnerable and uncomfortable as we put the hosts in the hot seat. 

    hosts amy fast
    Episode 19 - Ana and Maria

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2024 47:39


    En este episodio, Ana Lundren y María Alcaraz-Reyes hablan sobre sus ocupaciones como Enlace Familiar para el distrito escolar de Dayton. Como madres que navegaron por un nuevo  sistema educativo, Ana y María se convirtieron en firmes defensoras de sus propios hijos. Al hacerlo, aprendieron sobre las muchas oportunidades que ofrece nuestro sistema educativo, así como los desafíos que presenta para familias de diferentes orígenes. En sus funciones actuales, ahora se encuentran haciendo todo lo posible para brindar el apoyo que alguna vez esperaron. In this episode, Ana Lundren and Maria Alcaraz-Reyes discuss their roles as Family Liaison for the Dayton School District. As parents navigating through a new educational system, Ana and Maria became strong advocates for their own children. In doing so, they learned about the many opportunities our educational system provides as well as the challenges it presents for families of different backgrounds. In their current roles, they now find themselves doing their best to provide the support they once hoped for.

    Episode 18 - Steve Sugg

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2024 57:17


    We jump right into it in this episode. There is so much to cover as we welcome Steve Sugg back to the district. Recently retired, Steve was the Superintendent of Dayton Schools from July 2020 to June 2023. He provided stability during a major school disruption (pandemic/ distance learning) and guided us during a multi-million dollar Facilities and Improvements Bond. There was no shortage of stress. Yet, those weren't the things that made him lose sleep at night. Learn how retirement is treating Steve, and why his heart remains with the Dayton Community. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 17 - Tiffany Ashley

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2024 32:31


    Come meet long-time resident, parent, and pre-school teacher, Tiffany Ashley. We discuss together the phrase 'daycare desert' and how that pushed Tiffany to develop her program from the early days of a cooperative to being partnered with the school. We also spend a bit of time discussing siblings and the debate of "Nature v.s. Nurture". Tiffany's positivity shines through during this discussion. To learn more about this program, contact the school or follow up on our website. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 16 - Mitch Coleman

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2024 57:44


    Cher, Pele, Shaq, ... Mitch. Today we interviewed Dayton's single name celebrity, Mitch Coleman. Referred to mostly by his first name, Mitch has been teaching Agriculture and leading our nationally recognized FFA program since 1990. Learn what drives him to success and how he's changed his perspective over the course of his long, celebrated career. It's easy to see why so many Dayton families have gone through Mitch's classes over the years. His passion and work ethic are on full display in this episode. The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 15 - Michelle Borst

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2023 46:45


    This week we speak with Michelle Borst, Dean of Students at the Dayton Junior High/ High School. We grapple together defining that role, one we know can be very difficult. She states: "There are times when it can be a no-win situation". Learn how she navigates conflict, helps student regulate their behavior, and where she finds the hope in the everyday. Beyond this role, Michelle is also a proud wrestling-mom and a self-proclaimed "nerd" when it come to robotics. You won't want to miss the heart and compassion that she demonstrates.

    Episode 14 - Jeff Crapper

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2023 53:06


    Join us as we speak with "recovering" school board member, Jeff Crapper. He is known around Dayton, and beyond, for his passion in the fields of C.T.E. and educational best-practice. Trust us, we spent a good chunk of this episode discussing his career path; but there is more to his story beyond the resume. In this episode we uncover the trauma that drives him to achieve, the emotions of being a father, and the joy of serving your community. Colorful language tends to follow moments of heightened emotions. We may have had to find the bleep button and the Kleenex for this episode. Views expressed in this podcast do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 13 - Dave Rucklos

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2023 42:49


    Join us as we speak community development with the city of Dayton's Tourism and Economic Development Director, Dave Rucklos. Dave brings valuable insight about the various constructions and development projects that are happening in the city - including John's favorites: the U.G.B. and the foot bridge. We dive deeper into the opportunities for our students with career pathways and community internships and learn what skills employers are looking for. Come get the real story direct from Dave. Views expressed in this episode do not represent that of the Dayton School District.

    Episode 12 - Eric and Robin

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2023 43:44


    Come meet two new faces to the Dayton School District: Eric Palacios and Robin Van Buren. Eric is our Special Services T.O.S.A. Robin is the Director of Teaching and Learning. Both of these individuals have stories to share about their passion and hope for education. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 11 - Norma Huettl

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2023 37:03


    Join us as we speak with the Dayton School District's Food Service Manager, Norma Huettl. Learn how developing a community begins around the table and through face to face communication. She explains how her passion for cooking ties back to her southern roots. Norma and Brian's BBQ restaurant is a must-stop when visiting Dayton. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 10 - Kelli Hascall

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2023 38:35


    Join our hosts, Amy Fast and John Bixler, as we speak with Kelli Hascall, Counselor at the Dayton High School. She began her career in education as a student-teacher in Dayton. She has progressively developed her passion for art and woven it into her work live. Ask anyone who writes the master schedule. It is an art-form. This is a talent she shares with one of our hosts. Kelli uses her a wealth of knowledge and shared empathy to reach her students in ways few counselors can. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 9 - Larry and Kraig

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2023 52:11


    Join us as we speak with Dayton School District Board Chair Larry Ringnalda and Board Director Kraig Albright. Both Larry and Kraig are long time Dayton residents and have been involved with Dayton youth sports for a many years. Learn why they chose to run for the school board and how they are helping the Dayton School District grow our future generations. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 8 - Alicia Wilson-Gabor

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2023 33:58


    Come meet our "new English teacher", Mrs. Alicia Wilson-Gabor. She may be new to Dayton, but Alicia is an experienced educator with a wealth of knowledge. Learn the surprising reason why she'll never teach in Florida; something about a famous mouse... Also, learn how systems are the backbone of education, but sometimes you have to be willing to be flexible with these in order to reach all students.

    Episode 7 - Kenneth "Cash" Yount

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2023 51:53


    Wow. This interview left Amy and I speechless. Recorded as episode 10, we made the decision to release this moving episode earlier than planned. Cash is a well-spoken, involved, and impactful student at the Dayton High School. He recently served as the sole student-representative on the District's Book Reconsideration Committee. You won't want to miss how this brave student redirected his anger and trauma into life of duty and civic-servitude. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 6 - Tonya Hill

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 18, 2023 38:19


    Today we spoke with Dayton Grade School Instruction Coach and New Teacher Mentor, Tonya Hill. Tonya has held many roles in her 26 years in education. Learn how the Dayton SD uses native-language literacy to reach our emerging readers and how curriculum has shifted in recent years to engage students with literacy concepts. Tonya has a kind-heart. She shares her passion for teaching and how "tears are my smile".

    Episode 5 - Frank Baumholtz

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 31:48


    Community. Commitment. Character. Learn why Dayton is home to teacher, coach, and "influencer", Frank Baumholtz. Listen as he shares lessons of growth from his 28 years in the profession.

    Episode 4 - Efrain Arredondo

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2023 59:10


    Join us as we speak with Dayton Junior High/ High School Technology Support staff, and all-around helper, Efrain Arredondo. Learn about his inspiring story, the symbology of baking bread, and how hope can be the leading predictor of success.

    Episode 3 - Benjie Hedgecock

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2023 33:24


    Join us as we speak with long time Dayton School District supporter and coach, Benjie Hedgecock. Benjie is always entertaining and has a lot on his mind. You won't want to miss this episode. Views expressed in this episode do not necessarily represent that of the District.

    Episode 2 - Jeff Taylor

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2023 24:16


    Join us as we interview Dayton High School/ Junior High Vice-Principal and Athletic Director, Jeff Taylor.

    Episode 1 - Dana and Richard

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 44:33


    Join our hosts, Amy Fast and John Bixler, as they discuss what learning looks like in the Dayton School District with our building principals, Dana Symons and Richard Ceder. They expand upon the following questions: "What is Dayton known for?", "What are your hopes for the school year?", and "What is the most difficult part of your job?".

    amy fast

    Claim Buried Treasure

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel