West Aurora 129 Podcast

In Episode 48 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith wraps up the season with a conversation featuring Jen Bernal, Principal of Nicholson Elementary, and Justin McIntosh, Principal of Schneider Elementary. Together, they reflect on the role of relationships in building strong school communities and how their personal leadership journeys shape their work today. From empowering staff and supporting families to celebrating student growth and success, both leaders share how high expectations and genuine care create an environment where students thrive. Tune in for a thoughtful and energizing look at leadership, collaboration, and the lasting impact of elementary education.

In Episode 47 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith talks with Cindy Larry, Principal of Herget Middle School, and Jeff Bryant, Principal of Jefferson Middle School. They reflect on how their diverse career paths—from special education and the corporate world to student services and curriculum—shape the way they lead today. They discuss the unique role of middle schools in helping students navigate a time of big personal growth, and how they intentionally build school cultures that are inclusive, empowering, and grounded in strong relationships. Tune in for an engaging conversation on how two dedicated leaders are making a lasting impact during one of the most important stages in a student's journey.

In Episode 46 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith talks with Jana Ream and Liz Linning, principals at Freeman and Hall Elementary. They explore how their backgrounds in psychology and STEM influence their approach to education, focusing on nurturing a learning environment that balances rigorous academic challenges with strong emotional support. They also delve into how they encourage teachers and students to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, promoting a culture of growth and resilience. Tune in to discover their innovative approaches to education that inspire students and teachers alike.

In Episode 45 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith welcomes Dr. Kelly Person and Dr. Laurie Klomhaus, principals of Hope D. Wall School and the Early Learning Academy, respectively. They discuss their past collaboration and its significant impact on their current leadership approaches, highlighting how these experiences have fostered supportive and transformative environments in their schools. The episode delves into the deep connections they've built within their educational communities, enriching both student and community life. Tune in for a compelling discussion on how effective leadership shapes educational settings.

In Episode 44 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith talks with principals Daniel Ulrich of McCleery Elementary and Dr. Katy Schafermeyer of Fearn Elementary. They delve into their leadership approaches that shape positive and engaging learning environments, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and relationships in education. Plus, get a fascinating glimpse into what other careers they might have pursued if not for their roles as principals. Tune in for a rich discussion on the joys and challenges of education today.

Episode 43 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Smith explores high school educational pathways with Dr. Whitney Martino and Mr. Dave Sally from West Aurora High School, along with Mr. David Aguilar of Black Hawk Academy. They discuss tailored programs meeting diverse student needs, emphasizing strategies for success in both traditional and alternative settings. This episode provides insights into how these schools adapt their approaches to ensure inclusive and supportive educational environments for every student.

In Episode 42 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith explores the journeys of Jeff Hetrick and Kelly Papp, principals of Goodwin and Greenman Elementary Schools, respectively. They discuss their pathways to leadership, the impact of mentorship on their careers, and the unique aspects of their schools. Both building leaders share their belief in nurturing relationships and fostering inclusive school environments and what ownership as a principal means to each of them. Join us for this insightful conversation on leadership in education.

In Episode 41 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith continues hosting building leaders within the school district. This episode features Tim McKenna and Marchel Rogers, first-year principals at Jewel Middle School and Washington Middle School respectively. They share their transitions into their roles, reflecting on how previous experiences as deans have prepared them for their current positions. Both leaders emphasize the importance of community engagement, mentorship, and fostering a positive school culture.

In Episode 40 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith introduces the new season's theme of highlighting building leadership within School District 129 and the school communities they serve. Joined by principals Beth Smith of Nancy Hill Elementary and Dr. Pete Clabough of Smith Elementary, the episode illuminates their collaborative experiences, showcasing how mentorship and shared leadership have shaped their administrative approaches. Join us to hear their reflections on educational leadership, community building, and the distinctive paths that led them to where they are today.

In Episode 39 of the SD129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig steps out of his usual role as host to sit in the guest chair and is interviewed by guest host Neal Ormond. Dr. Craig reflects on his transformative tenure at SD129 and explores the diverse experiences that shaped his leadership and educational strategies. Mr. Ormond asks Dr. Craig to revisit pivotal initiatives during his administration, including the $84.2 million bond referendum that enhanced district facilities and the significant expansion of early childhood and career technical education programs. Don't miss this special episode!

In Episode 38 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig talks with North Aurora Mayor, Mark Gaffino, a lifelong North Aurora resident and local business owner. Mayor Gaffino reflects on his roots in the community, his educational journey, and his deep-seated connection to West Aurora schools. He shares insights into his role as mayor, emphasizing his commitment to community service and public engagement. The episode also highlights the collaborative efforts between North Aurora and School District 129, showcasing the impact of these partnerships on the community.

In Episode 37 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig speaks with Dr. Brian Knetl, President of Waubonsee Community College, and Dr. Susana Rivera-Mills, President of Aurora University. They delve into their recent role transitions and future visions, discussing the evolving educational landscape and its implications for post-secondary education. The episode also highlights their institutions' partnerships with School District 129, showcasing a shared commitment to community engagement, diversity, and educational innovation.

In Episode 36 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig and Linnea Windel, President and CEO of VNA Health Care, discuss the imminent opening of the VNA Health Care School-linked Health Center at the Jeff Craig Family Resource Center, located at the former Todd School. They highlight its mission to offer timely, accessible healthcare, aiming to decrease absenteeism and boost academic success. This center will provide comprehensive medical and support services, ensuring equitable care for all students, regardless of financial status.

In Episode 35 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig is joined by three exceptional senior students, Ella Brown, Maya Moneze, and Eleanor Rogowski, who serve as student board of education members. These students share their experiences and insights on balancing their academic, extracurricular commitments, and their roles as student board members. They discuss the impact of student representation on the Board of Education's decision-making process and the benefits it brings to the student body. Additionally, they offer advice to aspiring student board members and reflect on their memorable experiences in SD129, highlighting their future plans and aspirations.

In Episode 34 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig hosts Valerie Brown Dykstra, an integral member of the Board of Education and an administrative law judge. With a unique perspective as a district graduate and parent, Brown Dykstra shares her educational journey, reflecting on her school days and the evolution of the district. Her discussion covers her multifaceted career path from education to law, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. Brown Dykstra also highlights her commitment to ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students, illustrating her dedication to public service and education.

In this episode of the West Aurora 129 podcast, Dr. Jeff Craig interviews Mike Lehman, a veteran educator with over three decades of experience in the district. Lehman, who started as a student teacher in SD129 in 1990, has a remarkable journey from teaching fifth grade and kindergarten to becoming the President of the Aurora Education Association-West. He reflects on his early influences, the evolution of his teaching methods, and his tenure as a teacher's union president. Lehman also discusses the challenges and changes in education, emphasizing the importance of teacher-parent collaboration for student success.

In this episode, Dr. Jeff Craig, Superintendent of West Aurora Schools, interviews Kelly Person, principal of Hope D. Wall School. With nearly 20 years of experience in early childhood and special education, Ms. Person shares her journey to becoming an educator and emphasizes the impact of early influences and pivotal moments, such as working with a student with autism, on shaping her commitment to the holistic development of children. Ms. Person discusses the unique offerings at Hope D. Wall School, the extraordinary staff she gets to work alongside, and the special programs catering to students with diverse needs. Mr. Person also reflects on the district's focus on addressing the whole child and family, providing support beyond the classroom, and fostering a unique sense of community and care at Hope D. Wall School.

In this episode, Dr. Jeff Craig, Superintendent of West Aurora Schools, welcomes Ms. Laura Edwards, the new Curriculum Coordinator for West Aurora's Career and Technical Education Department. Ms. Edwards shares her educational journey and insights on the evolving significance of CTE in schools, including recent program updates in SD129. Join us as we uncover her perspective on the role of CTE in student development, addressing some common misconceptions surrounding CTE in our schools.

Jewel Middle School Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning, Mr. Pete Martino sits down for a conversation with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

In this episode, Dr. Craig is joined by veteran teacher Kevin Briars and first-year teacher Will Marks. The two are paired together as mentor/mentee as a part of the SD129 induction program for new teachers. Together, they discuss the challenges and rewards of being a mentor and mentee in the teaching profession. Kevin shares his years of experience in the classroom, while Will offers a fresh perspective as a new teacher navigating the demands of the job. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the power of mentorship in shaping the next generation of educators.

As a valued stakeholder of School District 129, we want to share with you our annual State of the District Message. In an effort to reach a larger audience, the message has taken the form of a podcast, featuring district leaders who reflect upon the accomplishments of the past year and share key initiatives for the coming year. We have also created condensed video summaries of each segment of the podcast, which will be shared via email and across our social media platforms. Segments include Leadership, Teaching & Learning (22:23), School Safety and Communication (52:02) and Operations (1:14:57).

West Aurora School District Executive Director of Student and Family Services, Marti Neahring sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

SD129 District Athletic Director, Jason Buckley, sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

Get to know the next SD129 Superintendent of Schools and current Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Dr. Michael P. Smith. He joins Superintendent Dr. Jeff Craig for a conversation that spans growing up in Aurora, what inspired him to become an educator, and his 23-year career in School District 129.

Principal of Washington Middle School, Tom Davidson, sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

StudioGC co-founder and Architect Pat Callahan, and West Aurora School District Captial Projects Manager, Pat Dacy, sit down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

West Aurora School District Director of Transportation, Lynn Head, sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

West Aurora High School Principal Dr. Chuck Hiscock sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

West Aurora School District Professional Development Coordinator, Laura Beatus, sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

Neal Ormond, a lifelong Aurora resident, former school board president, current volunteer coach, and the "Voice of the Blackhawks" sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

West Aurora High School Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning, Dr. Whitney Martino sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

Washington Middle School Dean of Students, Marchel Rogers, sits down with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig.

West Aurora High School CTE Pathway Program Coordinator Brian Veit and CTE Instructor Mark Williams talk with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

West Aurora High School Head Football Coach and Learning Specialist Nate Eimer talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig sits down with West Aurora alumni, Hayley Skye Darukhanavala, to talk about her unique experiences as a West Aurora student, recording artist, producer, songwriter, pianist, professional model, and soon to be NYU Graduate.

Aurora Police Officer and West Aurora alumnus, Chris Weaver, talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

West Aurora High School Dean, Pete Baker, talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

Early Learning Academy Principal, Dr. Laurie Klomhaus and 3 of the Early Childhood Academy students talk with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

The Principal of Hope D. Wall School, Dr. Terry Collette, talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig.

Episode 9- Victor Perez by West Aurora District 129

Episode 8- Chief of Police Kristen Ziman by West Aurora District 129

Episode 7-Kevin Triplett by West Aurora District 129

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeff Craig, is joined by members of the West Aurora 129 community, including students, staff, parents and other stakeholders to discuss personal stories and issues relevant to our school district environment.

Dr. Craig sits down with distinguished West Aurora alumni Gilberto Chaidez Jr. as he shares his take on work, life and how D129 helped shape his future.

AFJROTC Senior Aerospace Science Instructor, Lt Col Erik Pettyjohn, USAF (ret), talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig, about starting and growing the Air Force JROTC program at West Aurora High School.

School Board President, Bob Gonzalez, talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig, about his journey from Cuba to America and how it shaped him into who he is today.

Assistant Principal for Operations, Ron Murphy, talks with Superintendent of Schools, Jeff Craig, about his career path to his current position.