Petey Podcast

Send us a textWith the end of another school year, we sit down with Elyria Schools Superintendent Ann Schloss to reflect candidly on the year: where we've been and where we're headed. There've been major milestones this year, and some unexpected challenges, but all along the way -- many achievements to celebrate. And, don't miss our next chat in August with the superintendent in our official welcome back to school update! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textWelcome back to Basinski's Brain Busters on Petey Podcast! This is Episode 2 in our special trivia showdown series — where knowledge meets personality, and the stakes are bragging rights!Today, things are getting competitive between two of our district principals, Jim Rollence and Brett Heighberger--middle school versus high school. Who will rule the trivia throne in this episode? Who will move on to the next round of competition? Let's dive into the fun — it's time for the brain busting to begin! :)It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of Petey Podcast, we sit down with Elyria High School's newest assistant principal — someone who's truly grown with us, Amanda Belcher. From walking the halls as a student herself, to returning as a dedicated teacher, and now stepping into a leadership role, her journey is one about roots, vision and leading in the very place that helped shape her. Take a listen!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIn this kickoff episode of our Petey Podcast Fall Sports Spotlight series, we sit down with Coach Jerry Chizmar, head coach of Elyria High School's cross country team, to dive into what makes the program special, how student-athletes can get involved and what it means to compete at a high level. Coach shares insights on training, team culture and the unique challenges and rewards of distance running.Whether you're a seasoned runner, a curious student or a parent looking to learn more, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at a program that's all about endurance, discipline, team spirit and community.Plus, this is just the beginning! Stay tuned for upcoming episodes as we feature coaches from across the fall sports lineup — from the football and soccer fields to the volleyball and tennis courts, and beyond.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textThis episode of Petey Podcast delves into a beloved summer tradition that's been shaping young performers in Lorain County for decades. We're joined by Lorain County Children's Pioneer Theater Director, Maddie Riley (a preschool teacher with Elyria Schools),  and Director/Producer Alex Craig (an Elyria High School graduate). Pioneer Theater will boast a brand-new home this summer at Elyria High School. At Pioneer Theater, students ages five through 18, dive into every aspect of theater, from acting and stagecraft to lighting and set design. And in just four short weeks, that know-how culminates into a full musical on stage in the Elyria Performing Arts Center; and this year's production is "High School Musical!" Take a listen on how this immersive program continues to inspire generations of theater lovers.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIn this episode of Petey Podcast, we sit down with a former standout Elyria High School football player, Tracy Sprinkle, who rose to play at The Ohio State University, and has now returned to Elyria with a powerful mission. Hear his journey from the gridiron to giving back, as he shares how his passion for fitness and the community in which he was raised led him to open a fitness center for youth athletes and adults. Don't miss Tracy's story! (With Host Marty Yadon and guest co-host, Shane Newark, HR Director of Elyria Schools, and Tracy's former teacher.)It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textJoin us for a courtside conversation with Elyria's middle school basketball coaches, Head Coach Kyle Rospert, and Assistant Coach Tavon Kurtz, and Athletic Director Mat Siwierka, as they reflect on an unforgettable season. Their seventh grade team went undefeated, claiming the championship title in the Southwestern (SWC) Conference. Hear how unity, athleticism and genuine friendship powered these young athletes to victory—and what it means for the future of the program. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIn this episode of Petey Podcast, we celebrate a groundbreaking victory for the Elyria Robotics Team 44113T of middle school students who made history by earning the State Championship Title at a VEX Robotics tournament held at the Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton —the first time ever for any middle school in our district. Hear from the young champions themselves as they share what the win means to them, and meet some of their incredible teammates who also brought home top honors for excellence in sportsmanship.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIn this fun episode, we're chatting with a group of incredible high school special education teachers who've gone above and beyond to create a one-of-a-kind program that's changing lives. Meet the masterminds behind Pioneer Perk Cafe--Sharri Goodsite, Maison Belshaw, and Kelsey Montgomery--a student-run coffee shop inside their school where their high school students are not only learning valuable job skills, but also running the show! From brewing up special hot and cold beverages to designing and selling custom t-shirts, these students are putting their talents to work, and building confidence every day. Tune in to hear how these amazing teachers brought the cafe to life and the powerful impact it's having on their students! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textJoin us on this episode for a fun look into our upcoming Preschool Enrollment Fair on Saturday, April 5. Principal Jackie Plantner is our guest on Petey Podcast, and she shares all the great things she and her staff have planned for that day.On April 5, parents can take a tour of the Early Childhood Village (EECV)--see the classrooms, meet the staff and see for themselves what makes EECV preschool so special. (Psst! Rumor is, they're also having cookies and milk!)Don't miss out on this chance to secure your preschooler's spot for the fall – we're looking forward to meeting you and your little one! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textThe Elyria Special Olympics Spring Craft and Vendor Fair is back--April 12, 10AM to 3PM at Elyria High School! This EGG-citing event benefits the Elyria Special Olympics and offers a day of fun for the whole family. Join us as we chat with the amazing organizers behind this community event--Teachers, Sam Boneta and Sharri Goodsite.This year you'll find over 60 unique vendors at the fair, showcasing their crafts, artisanal goods and handmade treasures.But that's not all! Tune in to this episode of Petey Podcast as we dive into that day's musical entertainment lineup, talk about the a festive Easter egg hunt for kids, and the chance to meet the Easter Bunny. If that's not enough, there will also be face painting for the little ones, a food and coffee truck to satisfy your cravings, and a famous sweet treat--The Elyria Schools Pink Cookie! Take a listen here!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textWelcome to a new series in Petey Podcast called, The Grad Chat Chronicles, where we reconnect with amazing graduates and hear about their journeys after high school! In this episode, we're catching up with the incredible Lilly Parker, a 2024 Elyria High School graduate, who's been a leader and go-getter from the start. From being active in academic and extracurricular clubs at high school to now studying as a music major at Miami University, she's still making an impact. Not only is she part of her university's band, but she also had the incredible opportunity to perform alongside Snoop Dogg! Join us as we chat about her college experience, the challenges of balancing music and academics and all the exciting things happening in her life. You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with our own Lilly Parker! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textNorthwood Middle School Principal, Mike Basinski, Elyria Schools' trivia champ, is back on Petey Podcast as the host of a brand-new special trivia show—Basinski's Brain Busters! In this exciting new series, Mike takes the reins and tests the knowledge of our Petey Podcast guests. First up, he's putting Principals Jackie Plantner (Early Childhood Village) and Elizabeth Andrachik (Northwood Middle) in the hot seats. Who will come out on top and advance to the next round? Tune in to find out, and get ready for regular episodes of Basinski's Brain Busters on Petey Podcast!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textThe talk of summer for the five-year old "littles" of Elyria is Safety Town--a program where kindergarteners discover essential rules for walking, biking, and everyday safety. And no one knows the ins and outs of Safety Town better than Nicole Edwards, the Recreation Supervisor for the city of Elyria and a wonderful friend of Elyria Schools! With Safety Town registration fast approaching, be sure to catch this friendly chat with Nicole!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a text"If it doesn't fill your heart with happiness, you need to take a long, hard look in the mirror." This wise insight comes from Dan Blatt, the Unified Sports Program Coordinator for the district. We had a wonderful time discussing a whole range of topics with Dan, who also teaches visually impaired students at Elyria Schools. Unified Sports is a branch of Special Olympics that brings together students who are typically developing and those with special needs to join teams in a variety of sports, including flag football, basketball, cheerleading, and more. Dan shares the magic of his dual roles as a teacher and a sports champion—don't miss this enlightening chat on Petey Podcast!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIn this episode of the Petey Podcast, we're welcoming the incredibly talented Kathy Pero, an Intervention Specialist from Eastern Heights Middle School! Get ready for a fun chat as Kathy dives into the amazing project her students have been working on—owning and operating their very own art gallery!These young artists have unleashed their creativity, producing individual masterpieces, plus, they've collaborated on a large mosaic mural that's going to be showcased outside the Elyria Public Library. Mark your calendars for March 11, from 6 to 7 PM -- The exhibition, aptly titled "Heights of Imagination," will not only feature the exterior mural but also a vibrant gallery of student art.Heights of Imagination is an open event, so come on out and celebrate the talents of our students! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textIt's that time of year to roundup our little Pioneers for kindergarten! Joining us on this episode of Petey Podcast are the district's gurus of registration: Kristina Mlinko and Kristin Colorito. These two enrollment specialists give us the scoop on the Kindergarten Enrollment Fair happening on Saturday, Feb. 22, 9a.m. to Noon at Ely Elementary School. It's always a great day to be a Pioneer!Note: We welcome a special guest host on this episode, Elyria Schools student, Caesar Smith. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textElyria Wrestling is recognized as a dominant force in the Southwestern Conference and beyond, and its reputation has only grown stronger with the introduction of a Girls Varsity team. Leading this drive is Coach Paul Felton, who is well-established with the Elyria Wrestling program. An Elyria High graduate, Felton wrestled under the legendary Erik Burnett, a former head coach known for his remarkable achievements. After joining Burnett as a coach, Felton has contributed to the program for many seasons. He's witnessed the rise of Girls Wrestling, noting it's one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Felton is proud to lead Elyria's inaugural Girls Wrestling team, which, in just its second year, has already emerged as a formidable contender on the mat. Listen to Coach Felton's exciting journey with Elyria Girls Wrestling on this episode of Petey Podcast!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textHand a ball of yarn to someone who crochets or knits, and watch the magic unfold. A wonderful group of creative women from the Elyria Schools Administration Center has been using their lunch breaks to craft lovely blankets for children at the Blessing House respite center in Lorain, Ohio. This oh-so-talented team has turned simple fleece blankets into remarkable, cozy gifts that are sure to bring joy and comfort to all the children who receive them. Listen in to discover how their project began and what exciting plans this extraordinary group has in store!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textElyria Schools Foodservice Director, Lauryn Smith, and new Executive Chef, Alex Hrvatin, both of Aramark, join us on Petey Podcast to talk school food and nutrition. Aramark recently announced that all students in Elyria City School District are now eligible for free school meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Since making the announcement, participation in the school meal program has seen a big bump, and Lauryn and Alex couldn't be happier. Take a listen to how this program is working, and catch up on other culinary news from the central kitchen of Elyria Schools!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textE-cigarettes and vapes are a problem in schools. They are a highly addictive "alternative" to traditional cigarettes. Many times students don't have the facts they need to make informed decisions about using vapes, nor do they understand the long-term health implications.  Elyria High School Social Workers, Armando Torres and James Black, are working hard to educate students on the dangers of vaping and substance abuse--and with education, they are offering alternatives to suspension and discipline for vaping in schools. Take a listen to these two fantastic Pioneers! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textWe took our show on the road in September to the 44th Elyria Apple Festival held in Downtown Elyria, Sept. 20-22. There, we caught up with Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band Director, Aaron Putka, Superintendent Ann Schloss, Associate Principal Courtney Griffiths and Apple Festival Coordinator Stacey Francis. What a great time at Elyria's hometown festival. Take a listen!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a textHow we love the sweet, sweet season of fall and all the school fun that comes with it! Here in Elyria, the fall season kicks off each year with the Elyria Apple Festival in September. Like any small-town festival, Elyria's Apple Festival is chock-full of hometown favorites, from food booths and crafts to concerts and specialty programs, including the Apple Festival Princess Pageant, Apple Costume Contest, Apple Art Contest, Apple Bake-off, and the Apple Pie Eating Contest! Elyria City School District is a staple at the Elyria Apple Festival. Each year on Petey Podcast we catch up with our good friend, Stacey Francis, Chair of the Elyria Apple Festival Committee to get the scoop on all that's new and returning at the festival. Take a listen here!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a Text Message.Please join us in welcoming to Petey Podcast, Jay Banyasz, Director of Sports Performance for Elyria Schools. Banyasz, who's no stranger to Elyria Athletics, kicked off a high-intensity performance program for Elyria's athletes this year. The program takes a full mind-body approach to training, from the classroom, to the gym, to the field, Banyasz hones in on all aspects of fitness. Take a listen!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a Text Message.Petey Podcast guests Heather Beck and Mat Siwierka bring us up to speed on all things Elyria Sports. Beck is the Athletic Director of Elyria High School and Siwierka directs all middle school sports in the district. We always love when these two join us in studio with all the latest in Elyria Athletics.  Take a listen!Watch highlights from Elyria Pioneer Community Day at Ely Stadium on PioneerTV YouTube!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a Text Message.The Elyria Pioneers have a new head football coach: Matt Wilson, and he's eager to bring a fresh perspective to the team. Wilson has vast experience with the game and in coaching, and he's already putting innovative ideas and strategies to work. It's a new era for the Pioneers--Take a listen to Coach Wilson on Petey Podcast!  It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Send us a Text Message.From the moment French International Exchange Student, Mathias Jezequel, stepped off the plane and met his host family in Elyria, Ohio, he was swept up in a most wonderful whirlwind of activity--from entering high school, to performing with theater companies, to visiting some of America's most iconic destinations. American host and Elyria Schools Gifted Teacher, Charlene Hartley, and her family, ensured that Mathias had a lifetime of experiences in one year. In this podcast, recorded just before Mathias' return  to France, he talked about these treasured moments and memories in Elyria and in the United States, and most importantly, about the lifelong bond that was formed with his American hosts.  It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Pioneer Theater (PT) is a gem in the community of Elyria and Lorain County. The long-running children's theater program was established in 1976. This educational summer program teaches children all the way through the age of 18 all aspects of theater from set design to stage acting. After just three-weeks of learning and growing in this summer theater club, the students will perform a live show on stage. It's a fascinating and truly remarkable accomplishment. This year's troupe will perform an old-timey classic: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, July 12 and 13 at the Elyria Performing Arts Center. Joining us on this episode of Petey Podcast is Pioneer Theater Director Madilyn Riley and former PT student and Elyria High School graduate, Lilly Parker. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

From the earliest days of civilization, group dramatic readings have been a thing. Poets, actors and students have taken to the stage to enthusiastically belt out the lines of a script as audiences visualize each moment. Reader's Theater in schools operates under the same guiding principles, giving students the chance to read and act out dialogue, boosting their reading and presentation skills. Two dynamos of the Elyria Schools Special Education Department have taken this experience even further. Carla Valles, Northwood Elementary, and Kathy Pero, Eastern Heights Middle, have for nearly a decade modified Reader's Theater to tap their students' creative spirits and to strengthen academic goals. Carla, a playwright herself, began creatively adapting beloved stories and books which her students eagerly consumed--even dressing in costumes and presenting their lines on stage with gusto. The newest chronicle in the Valles and Pero Reader's Theater: "The Day the Crayons Went on Strike!" Take a listen to how Reader's Theater has grown in our chat with Carla on Petey Podcast! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

What a run! Sitting in studio with Coach Brett Larrick and reliving a sensational season for the Elyria High School Boys Basketball team. Take a listen as Coach Larrick describes a whole lotta magic from nail-biter moments to conference titles to division playoffs -- right here on Petey Podcast! Congratulations Elyria Boys Basketball on a phenomenal season!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

The eclipse of April 8 was truly remarkable. And here's a little something that added an extra layer of fascination for those of us in the path of totality in Elyria, Ohio--an eclipse weather balloon crash-landed in a field on the property of our very own Eastern Heights Campus! The balloon and its transmission device, known as a radiosonde, were discovered by a school family who was watching the eclipse from the school's field. The balloon was launched by a group of researchers from the University of Wyoming known as the UW Space Cowboys. Their atmospheric team actually sent some 30 balloons up in the air--every hour for 30 hours--to collect data like temperature, humidity, wind, latitude/longitude, and altitude within the eclipse's path of totality. On this episode of Petey Podcast, we chat with Dr. Phil Bergmaier who heads up the eclipse weather balloon project of the atmospheric science research at the University of Wyoming, and leader of the UW Space Cowboys. We also talk with Elyria Schools parent, Laura Schisler, who made the balloon discovery at Eastern Heights! Take a listen--it's an out-of-this-world episode!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

You've may have heard of the Good Behavior Game--strategies for encouraging positive choices and time on task in the classroom.  PAX is a system that supports this. The PAX game, if you will, guides students in what the behavior expectations are and rewards them when they get there. Holly Campbell is a Behavior Reinforcement and Implementation Coordinator (BRIC) with Elyria Schools and she spearheads many of the PAX workshops at the elementary level, including sessions with parents to equip them with knowledge and tools for using PAX strategies at home. We chatted with Holly about PAX and how it fits into bigger picture of positive behavior and culture in school. Take a listen! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

It's a hop-hop-hopping time of year in the Elyria Schools as we gear up for the many activities and programs of spring. One of our favorite functions each year is the Special Olympics Craft and Vendor Fair at Elyria High School! It's an event truly designed for fun, family and friendship. Nearly 100 vendors will be there to showcase their crafts, homemade goodies and products. If you're looking for unique stuffers for Easter baskets--this is the place! You'll want to bring the kids, too, for the fair's annual Easter Egg Hunt, with more than 6,000 filled eggs and pictures with the Easter Bunny! There will also be musical entertainment and delicious concession treats to eat. All proceeds benefit the Elyria Special Olympics. The Spring Craft and Vendor Fair is Saturday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Elyria High School. Get caught up on all the details with our guests, Shari Goodsite and Andy Menner of the Elyria Special Olympics Committee.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Take a listen and you'll quickly learn why students of Eastern Heights Elementary were selected by Disney Musicals in Schools and Cleveland's Playhouse Square to bring a Disney classic to life:  "101 Dalmations!" These young actors demonstrate their paw-some talent as they easily slip right into character on this episode of Petey Podcast. This is the first-ever on-stage production of Eastern Heights Elementary School because the school hasn't had an existing drama club--until now, that is! Eastern Heights is the only school in Lorain County, Ohio,--and one of only a handful of schools in Northeastern Ohio--to become a 2023-2024 recipient of the Disney Musicals in Schools program. This remarkable project is a collaboration with Cleveland Playhouse Square to create sustainable theater programs in schools. In March, the "101 Dalmations" crew will showcase their talents on stage at Playhouse Square, and again with a full production in April at the Elyria High School Performing Arts Center. You're in for a treat with this show--woof, woof!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Imagine waking up one day in someone else's shoes, literally! That's what happens when characters "Ellie" and "Katherine" swap bodies in the madcap tale  of "Freaky Friday One-Act Edition." And this is the oh-so-fun musical Northwood Middle School Drama Club is bringing to Elyria's Performing Arts Center stage in March. We caught up with a handful of actors and backstage experts of the cast and crew to learn all the details of the hilarious performance. Take a listen on this episode of Petey Podcast!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

The  Veterans Service Commission of Lorain County provides millions of dollars in assistance each and every year to ensure that veterans have basic needs met, such as transportation to medical appointments, financial assistance where eligible and legal assistance, including wills and assisting with guardianship matters, among many other things. It's also their mission to promote patriotism and to restore and commission veteran memorials in Lorain County. Their services are wide-ranging and life-changing. On Petey Podcast to tell us all about it, we recently welcomed Director Jacob Smith and Deputy Director Larry Amato. If you're a veteran or a family member of a veteran, don't miss this episode!  It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

The Ohio Task Force on Internet Crimes Against Children came to Elyria High School to talk with parents about this critical matter. EHS Associate Principal Patrick Griffis joined us on Petey Podcast to hit the high points from this incredibly important presentation. Internet crimes against children are on the rise but there are ways to fight back. Tune in to this important discussion on Petey Podcast, and watch the video on Elyria Schools PioneerTV.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Nothing much going on here but some holiday chit chat with Petey Podcast hosts, Amy and Marty! We're recapping some of the end-of-year holiday fun that's been boosting spirits here in the district as we round out the first half of the school year and look to put a bow on 2023. From all of us in the Elyria Schools--Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a most jubilant New Year! It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

After nearly nine years as a member of the Elyria Board of Education, President Greg Elek is stepping down at the end of this year after deciding not to seek re-election last November. Greg has been a key leader in decisions that have changed the face of the school district and of the community--most notably the building of all new schools and a new stadium in Elyria. We caught up with Greg on Petey Podcast to chat about his time on the Board and some of his most memorable moments. Thank you, Greg, for your dedicated service to Elyria Schools and to the community of Elyria. You will be missed!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

When you're offered a chance of a lifetime, you take it. Head Custodian Terry Lewis knew many years ago that he wanted to make a direct impact in the lives of veterans. For years Terry has been a trusty associate in the long-standing annual Veterans Day planning and preparation activities of Northwood Campus (and Windsor Elementary before then.). Terry is charged with ensuring the facility is ready to go for welcoming and recognizing the hundreds of veterans who participate in the formalities of this special day. Doing so, however, has inspired him to want to more. Windsor--and now Northwood--began fundraising for Honor Flights many years ago. The Honor Flights program ensures that Veterans of combat have the opportunity to visit the war memorials of Washington D.C. at no cost. Honor Flight Guardians are volunteers who fly with the veterans to assist with all their needs during their flights to and from Washington D.C., and throughout their day of travel. Terry was selected in October to take this unforgettable journey with a Vietnam Veteran. Terry joined us in studio to share this experience. Also a guest, Mary Karlovec--Teacher and organizer of Northwood's annual Veterans Day Celebration and Parade--with all the details of this year's event. Northwood's Annual Veterans Day Car Parade: Friday, Nov. 10, 9:45-10:15 a.m. (Vehicles must enter the campus from Rosealee Dr. to line up for the parade.)It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Morning talk radio host Bruce VanDyke of AM 930 WEOL talks with Elyria Schools staffer Terry Lewis about his unforgettable trip as an Honor Flight Guardian. Terry is a Head Custodian at Northwood Campus, where he works with Teacher Mary Karlovec--both are very involved in the school's annual tribute to veterans on Veterans Day. Take a listen as Terry describes his incredible journey and Mary shares how Elyria Schools came to be involved in sponsorship of the Honor Flight program. Mary also gives us the scoop on what Northwood has planned for this year's Veterans Day Parade.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

The Eastern Heights Middle School Drama Club has grown by leaps and bounds since it launched just four years ago.  The club takes on multiple productions a year, kicking off each new season with a fantastic musical. This year is no exception! The cast and crew are ready to welcome audiences this weekend to their fun-filled production of  "Junie B. Jones, Jr.," the lovable tale of a first grader--Junie B. Jones--who's trying to find her way through a brand new year of school. The play is loaded with entertaining music that will make you bounce in your seat--it's a perfect night out for the family. We caught up with a few members of the cast and crew and Club Advisor Charlene Hartley on this episode of Petey Podcast. Take a listen! "Junie B. Jones, Jr." premieres this weekend at the Elyria High School Performing Arts Center, Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20 & 21, 7 p.m. Tickets are $6 and can be purchased at the door or online at https://www.elyriaschools.org/performing_arts_center/purchase_event_ticketsIt's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Shirley Messaros grew up in Elyria during World War II, attending McKinley and Franklin Elementary Schools as a youngster and graduating from Elyria High School in 1954. She forged many friendships that have stood the test of time. She's been the keeper of her high school class memoirs, and continues to gather her classmates up every five years for meet ups. In 2024, the Class of 1954 will celebrate its 70th reunion! It's these fond school memories and deep friendships that's kept Shirley tied to Elyria Schools all these years. About 13 years ago Shirley started a coat collection for Elyria students. It began humbly with a small donation of coats after Shirley learned of the need while visiting a now shuttered elementary school. Shirley's coat drive has grown over the years to a collection of hundreds of brand-new coats, hats, gloves and scarves. The drive is held the first weekend of every November. Shirley's coat drive will take place Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 4 and 5, 2023, from Noon to 3 p.m., at the Elyria American Legion housed at 393 Ohio St. Thank you, Shirley, for your deep care, concern and kindness toward Elyria's children!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Hamilton Elementary School is the site for a districtwide celebration of culture and family: EL Family Night on Oct. 19, from 5-7 p.m. This is the second year in a row that Hamilton Elementary has hosted this celebration for families with English Learners to come together for an evening of food, friendship and fun. On this episode of Petey Podcast, we welcomed EL Teacher Dan Falk and EL Coordinator Celina Bigio to provide us with the history of EL Night in Elyria Schools and to share what's planned for this year's exciting event!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Elyria City School District is the first in Lorain County to screen the film, The Right to Read, and it's FREE to our parents and community at the Elyria High School Performing Arts Center, Tues. Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m. Joining us on this episode of Petey Podcast are Literacy Specialists Erica Kaufmann and Jennifer Martinez from the  Educational Service Center of Lorain County, and Elyria Schools Implementation Specialist Bianca Fries. The movie, The Right to Read, examines literacy instruction and identifiable gaps.  How the brain learns to read is a fascinating area of study of educators everywhere. And here in Lorain County, our teachers and literacy experts are rolling up their sleeves and delving right in. Take a listen to this exciting discussion with these fantastic educators!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

It's September and that can only mean one thing in Elyria: Apple Fest time! Take a listen as we chat with Apple Festival Committee Chair, Stacey Francis, as she fills us in on all the fun food and activities we can expect at Elyria's annual Apple Festival in Ely Square, Sept. 15-17--the festival is celebrating 43 years this year!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

If there's one thing that brings people together on a Friday night it's high school football. And this year Elyria has a new coach at the helm, Brian Fox. Brian joined us in the Petey Podcast studio before the start of the school year to talk about the season and his coaching philosophies. He also talks about academics and how coaches and teachers of Elyria High School work together for the common goal of student success. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

An English language expert of Elyria Schools, Celina Bigio, took her teaching strategies and skills across the Atlantic this summer to teach English to students in Poland. This is her second trip to Europe in a year--over spring break she was in Poland to guide teachers there in ways of incorporating fun and games into their lessons and classroom activities.  Celina is the district's EL (English Learner) and Gifted Coordinator. The work she's doing in Poland will help her immensely in assisting Elyria's teachers who work directly with students learning to speak English through the Elyria Schools. In this episode of Petey Podcast, Celina talks about lessons learned while teaching abroad and the impact of programs like this that give American educators the opportunity to teach in other countries. Watch for part two of this podcast in the fall when we catch up with Celina after her trip!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Sofia Fioravanti hails from the quaint, picturesque town of Lake Como, Italy. As a youngster, it was her dream to travel and study abroad in America. At 18 years old, and without knowing one word of English, Sofia boarded a plane and took her first flight ever across the Atlantic to the United States. Her final destination would be Elyria, Ohio, where she would enroll as a senior at  Elyria High School through a foreign exchange student program. Sofia said while at EHS this school year, she's had the full "American high school experience." And what did she make of it? You'll just have to listen to this episode of Petey Podcast to find out!  Get comfortable and settle in for this interview with Sofia--she's a delight and you won't be disappointed! (Since this interview was recorded in early May,  Sofia graduated from Elyria High School with the Class of 2023. She will return to Italy in June to pick up where she left off with her Italian studies as a fifth year Science High School student.)It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Checking in with a couple of our soccer gurus--Alyssa Martineau and Todd Church--on this episode of Petey Podcast. Alyssa is the Head Coach of the Elyria Girls Soccer Program and Todd is her Assistant, and he's also her dad. The duo finished up their first year as new coaches of the girls soccer program this past school year and just as quickly, kicked off their summer workout schedule and will start up a summer soccer camp in July. And, by the way...there's still time to register for that camp! We had a lot of fun catching up with Alyssa and Toddy and hearing about all the excitement surrounding Elyria Girls Soccer. Take a listen!  It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

Have you ever wondered about the island of Fiji or the Republic of Bulgaria, or any other far-off destination and its culture?  Learning about other places and people-- what makes us the same and what makes us different--that's the goal of an international studies project that has the students of Eastern Heights Middle School so engaged. The students selected a place from somewhere on the globe that they wanted to study and created projects to show of what they learned. The project will culminate at a spectacular International Festival at Eastern Heights Middle School on May 10, 2023, with live music, traditional foods of other countries and a walking tour of the finished work of the students. Community partners will be there, as well, with information for parents and many resources, including free clothing. Take a listen on Petey Podcast to Principals Dana Cerrito and Jake Keefe, and School Home Liaison Michelle Nimene, on what it took for the staff and students of Eastern Heights Middle School to pull off this exciting event!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!