Podcasts about Seattle Public Schools

Seattle Public Schools is tackling the critical shortage of teachers of color with a strategic focus on increasing the presence of Black men in the classroom. Through the Academy for Rising Educators, the district is implementing initiatives to cultivate teaching talent from within the community, thereby dismantling stereotypes and fostering enduring transformation. This program emphasizes professional development for teachers of color, while the district concurrently strives to establish an inclusive educational environment for all students, irrespective of race or ethnicity. Dr. Sarah Pritchett, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources for Seattle Public Schools, meets with Christopher B. Bennett for this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Our conversation this week is with Vivian Van Gelder, Director of Policy & Research at the Southeast Seattle Education Coalition, a nonprofit that unites more than 50 community organizations, schools, parents, and caregivers behind advocacy for equitable education policy. Vivian is the lead author of a report called Left to Chance: Student Outcomes in Seattle Public Schools, A forensic history. It's a sweeping and detailed analysis of one public school district's leadership and policy choices over more than three decades and how those choices have shaped the educational experience of tens of thousands of students attending more than 100 schools.In her report, Vivian uncovers the story of how Seattle Public Schools embraced an experiment in local control, allowing parents and students to “vote with their feet” for support of their local schools. In theory, competition drives innovation; in practice, the story was more complicated, and it produced a fractured district with a hundred mini-systems that were unevenly funded, under-supported, and almost invisible to central leadership.We think there's a lot to be learned from this report and from researchers like Vivian who are doing the hard work of holding intractable social problems up to the light in a way that can spark progress and ignite momentum behind reform. We spend significant time discussing Seattle Public Schools in this episode, but Katie and I were struck by just how familiar some of these tensions are to what we've heard from educators in Appalachian Ohio, or to friends in suburban Maryland and rural Alaska and the Deep South. Vivian's work addresses universal questions of values and organizational leadership in public schools, and we encourage you to read it (we will link to it in our show notes).Thanks for listening to 16:1, and don't forget to sign up for our email newsletter for the latest news, resources, workshop offerings, and episode announcements from Moonbeam Multimedia. For a full list of episode sources and resources, visit our website at sixteentoone.com/archives.

WA international students sue the Trump Administration, parents call for better enrollment management at Seattle Public Schools, and nearby residents of Denny Blaine Park are suing the City of Seattle. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Patricia Murphy. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Seattle parents expressed their concerns to Seattle Public Schools over waitlists and lack of school choice. Is REAL ID going to be pushed back again? Guest: Host of “Jew or False” Jason Kessler has a new documentary on antisemitism at UW. // Big Local: A Renton rideshare driver was charged with sexual assault of a minor. Spokane passed a measure that bans employers from inquiring about someone’s housing status. The Fairfax Bridge over the Carbon River has been closed. // You Pick the Topic: Fox’s Martha MacCallum got into a heated exchange with American Federation of Teachers president Randi Weingarten.

This is a VIDEO.This episode explores the questions surrounding school waitlists in Seattle Public Schools — particularly for option schools — including how they're handled, why they often don't move, and what the impacts are for students and families. Thanks for the many contributions from educators, students, and community members. including:Liza RankinShraddha ShirudeJaneal MaureraJessica BaxterErin CombsKaitlin MurdockVivian Van Gelder / SESECLeslie HarrisSue PetersAll Together for Seattle Schools – ATSSSeattle School Options Coalition – SSOCSee more in our Show Notes.   -- by Dawson NicholsSubscribe to our podcast at rainydayrecess.orgSupport our work at our Patreon.Contact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Support the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

WA's Attorney General sues Seattle Public Schools, after-hours lounges in Seattle must abide by new security rules, and WA Dems push for a budget that could mean higher property taxes. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Brent Jones, Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, has announced he will step down from his role on September 3, 2025. A Seattle native and Franklin High School graduate, Dr. Jones has led the district through significant challenges, including financial instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure saw accelerated academic growth, strengthened mental health services, secured major voter support for education levies, and the launch of innovative programs. Dr. Jones will be remembered for his dedication to equity reforms and his impactful leadership in shaping the district's future. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The district's sudden reversal on Highly Capable programming was the big news at the March 12 school board meeting, with strong commitments from Dr Torres-Morales for a definitive plan by April 1. Testimony also covered option school waitlists and the possible loss of the SPS LGBTQ+ program coordinator. Progress monitoring on career readiness, and an update on the upcoming strategic plan were followed by a fascinating Progress Monitoring training session run by AJ Crabill of the Council of Great City Schools. In community notes, we cover school board training being run by community groups. At a recent panel, one director panelist candidly advised: "If you have a high need to be liked, don't do this gig." It's not too fun to be a superintendent either, and Superintendent Jones has announced his departure from Seattle Public Schools.Christie Robertson & Jasmine PulidoSee our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

In this Rainy Day Rundown, we explore key developments in Seattle Public Schools and the role of community engagement in decision-making:SPS Racial Equity Departments – We follow up on our breaking news segment from February 28, regarding the removal and return of key web pages raises questions about transparency.Board Engagement Meeting on the Budget (Feb 26) – Community members push for a more active role in district decisions.2025-26 Budget Planning – SPS projects staffing while awaiting final state funding decisions.Listener Feedback – Former Director Vivian Song provides insight into the budget timeline and process.See our Show NotesChristie Robertson and Jasmine PulidoSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

Amanda Willams is a former teacher in Seattle Public Schools and is the creator of the Seattle Green Book, an online listing of Black Owned Businesses in the Seattle Area. She joined us to talk...

Seattle Public Schools is considering closing Stevenson Elementary School amid declining enrollment. One longtime parent there is pushing back and trying to change its name to better reflect the school’s Japanese-American history. That’s the kind of opening line you might hear on Soundside if the events of the book Supersonic were real. The book is fiction, but it reflects the very real ethos of a city constantly reinventing itself through boom and bust cycles across generations. At the center of the story is Sami Hasegawa-Stalwarth, a PTA president with a deep history in the city. But Supersonic also takes us through the city’s history, to see the connections across generations. We meet a gold rush conman, aerospace workers building the Supersonic transport, a stay at home dad trying to open the city’s first legal cannabis dispensary, and the Native people who have called this area home since time immemorial. Guest: Thomas Kohnstamm, author of Supersonic Links: Third Place Books event info for Thomas Kohnstamm reading on Thursday, February 27See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rainy Day Rundown is your update on the latest happenings related to Seattle Public Schools. In this episode, we examine what systemic neglect looks like:

(The Center Square) – The fate of two levies from Seattle Public Schools will be determined on Tuesday by Seattle voters, amid recent survey results showing that parents of former students were dissatisfied with the quality of the education their children received. Currently, Seattle Public Schools' current tax rate is $1.85 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This includes the three-year Educational Programs and Operations Levy, the six-year Building Excellence VI Capital Levy, and the continuing Building, Technology and Academics Capital Levy approved in 2022. Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxx Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/washington/article_89b7056a-e7ee-11ef-a47a-bf8c23728a96.html

4PM The Department of Justice is going after sanctuary cities. Seattle Public Schools opted for remote learning yesterday, but are they actually learning anything? A Seattle judge placed an injunction on Trump’s order banning birthright citizenship. CNN’s Pamela Brown grilled Republican Congressman Brandon Gill about Elon Musk making policy in the Trump Administration. // Big Local: A drunk driver slammed into the side of a Mason County family’s home. The City of Tacoma isn’t going to be prosecuting people who use plant psychedelics. The missing donkeys in Bellevue have been found. // You Pick the Topic: Dozens of people came down with a stomach illness on a Royal Caribbean cruise.  

Rainy Day Rundown is your weekly update on the latest happenings related to Seattle Public Schools. In this episode:Special School Board Meeting: The School Board listens to public testimony on the proposed Goals and Guardrails  before discussing, amending, and adopting the new Goals and Guardrails for 2025-2030.National Assessment of Educational Progress : We mention the recently released  results of national test scores from the Department of Education. Community Notes: We share what our community is talking about including the controversial school levy on the next ballot and our experiences at the Billion Dollar Bake Sale. See our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

Seattle Public Schools and Metro League Athletic Director Tara Davis has joined the Rhythm & News Podcast to discuss the Seattle Metro League's participation in the State Basketball Playoffs. As the regular season concludes, the focus shifts to the playoff push for numerous teams, particularly those within the Metro League. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Rainy Day Rundown is your weekly update on the latest happenings related to Seattle Public Schools. In this episode:School Board Meeting: President Gina Topp's first full meeting featured strong facilitation and substantive debate.Goals and Guardrails: Board discussed reading targets, math goals, and graduation requirements, with student directors providing key insights. Decision postponed to January 29th.Budget Preview: High-level look at addressing potential $100M shortfall, with preview of upcoming enrollment study showing 86% family satisfaction.Public Testimony: Strong advocacy for libraries, concerns about racial disparities, calls for ethnic studies, and questions about HCC transitions.Community Updates: West Seattle education funding event and upcoming "Billion Dollar Bake Sale" advocacy in Olympia.See our Show Notes.Support the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

Not only is OpenAI's new o3 model allegedly breaking records for how close an LLM can get to the mythical "human-like thinking" of AGI, but Sam Altman has some, uh, reflections for us as he marks two years since the official launch of ChatGPT. Emily and Alex kick off the new year unraveling these truly fantastical stories.References:OpenAI o3 Breakthrough High Score on ARC-AGI-PubFrom the blog of Sam Altman: ReflectionsMore about the ARC Prizeo3's environmental impactThe brain is a computer is a brain Fresh AI Hell:"Time to Edit" as a metric predicting the singularity (Contributed by Warai Otoko)AI 'tasting' colorsAn AI...faucet??Seattle Public Schools calls ChatGPT a "transformative technology"A GitHub pull request closed because change would have been unfriendly to "AI" chat interfaceCohere working with PalantirElsevier rewrites papers with "AI" without telling authors, editorsThe UK: mainlining AI straight into their veinsCheck out future streams at on Twitch, Meanwhile, send us any AI Hell you see.Our book, 'The AI Con,' comes out in May! Pre-order now.Subscribe to our newsletter via Buttondown. Follow us!Emily Bluesky: emilymbender.bsky.social Mastodon: dair-community.social/@EmilyMBender Alex Bluesky: alexhanna.bsky.social Mastodon: dair-community.social/@alex Twitter: @alexhanna Music by Toby Menon.Artwork by Naomi Pleasure-Park. Production by Christie Taylor.

Join Rainy Day Recess as we kick off a new series exploring the Washington State Legislature and its impact on Seattle Public Schools. We're joined on this journey by Megan Larkin—advocate, SPS parent, and legislative expert—to break down how laws are made and how you can take action to shape them. With critical education funding gaps and a new legislative session underway, we'll give parents, educators, and students the tools to stay informed, speak up, and make an impact for Seattle Public Schools and beyond.This interview was edited for length and clarity. Each person's opinions are their own.See our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

We’re nearing the finish line of 2024, and wow what a year. Boeing’s year started with a bang, but not in a good way. In January, a door-sized panel blew off of a Boeing 737 Max 9 jet mid-flight. They also got a new CEO and endured a 53 day machinist strike. The Seattle Public Library, SeaTac Airport, and the Highline school district all got cyber attacked. Seattle Public Schools went from planning to close 20 schools to planning to close zero, University of Washington joined the big 10, and some zebras broke loose near North Bend. There’s a lot to reflect on, and thankfully our friends over at Week in Review took time to look back on the year for their Year in Review event. Here’s a portion of their conversation, hosted by KUOW’s Bill Radke. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Rainy Day Recess, we talk with Jie Lei, a Seattle Public Schools parent and former student, about the past, present, and uncertain future of the district's Highly Capable and Advanced Learning programs. Jie shares powerful personal stories, from being misidentified as needing special education after immigrating to the U.S., to ultimately thriving in advanced learning programs that set her on a path to college by age 14.We explore the district's controversial decision to phase out the Highly Capable Cohort (HCC) model without fully implementing promised neighborhood-based services. Jie discusses how these changes affect access, equity, and the future of advanced learning, highlighting the struggle for many students—especially neurodivergent and underrepresented learners—who risk being left behind.Through candid reflections on advocacy, policy, and personal resilience, this episode offers an in-depth look at what's at stake for Seattle's students and how meaningful change could still be possible.See our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

WIAA finally does what’s right and proposes a league for transgender athletes. Renton police performed a sexual abuse sting operation and one of the suspects is a vice principal at Seattle Public Schools. The Tacoma City Council approved funding in their budget to keep the fire department’s rover program in place. // A Seattle man dressed as a cat asked Jason to support Amnesty International… it didn’t go the way he probably thought it would. // There is a new attack against Pete Hegseth.

In this episode of Rainy Day Recess, we explore the Seattle Public Schools budget crisis with guest Alex Wakeman Rouse, co-chair of All Together for Seattle Schools. We dive into All Together for Seattle Schools' advocacy work, especially advocating for the Washington State legislature to fulfill its Paramount Duty to fully fund Washington Schools.  We also discuss some of the complexities of the district's budget. Alex explores potential budget solutions, emphasizing non-student-facing cuts, increased transparency, and potential enrollment growth. See our Show NotesSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo, logo by Cheryl Jenrow.

Seattle Public Schools continues to stare down a $100 million budget deficit.  It's a problem that's sparked frustration, protests, and even a legal battle over the district's leadership.  Plans to close schools drew a lot of backlash— and have been shelved, for now. Yet, the question remains: how will the district balance its books? To help answer that question and a few more is KUOW's education reporter Sami West. Guest: Sami West, KUOW Education Reporter Related Links: KUOW - Judge throws out attempted recall of Seattle School Board president KUOW - Seattle Public Schools drops contentious closure plan following months of waffling amid backlash KUOW - What the election means for school funding in Washington state Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Tomlin and Tim Gaydos filling in // Sara Nelson, Seattle City Council President joins the show // Seattle Public Schools losing enrollment // Taking advantage of Black Friday Deals.

Greg Tomlin and Tim Gaydos filling in // Sara Nelson, Seattle City Council President joins the show // Seattle Public Schools losing enrollment // Taking advantage of Black Friday Deals.

Episode 465 - Kay Smith-Blum - Tangles, A Suspense-Filled, 20th-Century Historical Environmental ThrillerMEET THE AUTHOR Redefining Historical Fiction - An Austin, Texas transplant, Kay Smith-Blum is a recovering retailer who is redefining the historical fiction genre from her bayside perch in Seattle. Named Woman Business Owner (NWWA) of 2013, her wit, humor, and resourcefulness helped her high-end retail fashion business endure multiple economic shifts in a decades-long career. She and her husband sold their company in 2016, allowing KSB to write full-time.Winner of the 2023 Black Fox Lit short story contest, Smith-Blum is a member of the WFWA (serving on the Scholarship committee), the HistFic Affinity Group, a member of the Feisty Deeds Anthology editorial committee, Ravenna Writers Circle, CommuterLit Writers Group, the Authors Guild, PNWA, NIWA and AWP. She has been published in over a dozen literary journals and her debut novel, TANGLES, will be published on December 3, 2024 (available for pre-order now and all preorders benefit the Heart of America NW/HanfordCleanup.org.As a publicly elected official (President of the Seattle School Board 2012) she led multiple initiatives on behalf of the students of Seattle. As a private citizen, Smith-Blum raised millions of dollars for education, the arts, and medical research. She established the first greenhouse and urban gardening program in Seattle Public Schools. She has served on numerous charitable boards in the Pacific Northwest. An active member of the downtown Seattle community, she is currently advocating for a park in the last green space in the urban core, made available by the demolition of the Highway 99 viaduct. An avid gardener, Smith-Blum works out her writer's block in her three sons' gardens and the nearest lap pool.​A graduate of the University of Texas, Smith-Blum chaired Downtown Seattle's first marketing campaign and published a seasonal magazine for 10 years. She co-authored the “Every Man, Every Woman” inspirational series of cards and posters, published by Schurman Fine Papers, Portal Publications, and Sawdust City. Smith-Blum is a dynamic speaker and experienced producer of large and small events that leverage both traditional and social media.Book: TanglesOppenheimer was just the beginning.When a harpooned whale offers proof the Hanford Nuclear Reservation is endangering all life in the Columbia River Basin, Luke Hinson, a brash young scientist, seizes the chance to avenge his father's death but a thyroid cancer diagnosis derails Luke's research. Between treatments, he dives back in, making enemies at every turn. On an overnight trek, Luke discovers evidence that Mary, his former neighbor, embarked on the same treacherous trail, and her disappearance, a decade prior, may be tied to Hanford's harmful practices mired in government-mandated secrecy.A love story wrapped in a mystery, this stunning Cold War home-front tale reveals the devastating costs of the birth of the nuclear age, and celebrates the quiet courage of wronged women, the fierce determination of fatherless sons, and the limitless power of the individual.Tangles is a genre-defying must-read for our time.https://a.co/d/gJxsZa8https://www.kaysmith-blum.com/Support the show___https://livingthenextchapter.com/podcast produced by: https://truemediasolutions.ca/Coffee Refills are always appreciated, refill Dave's cup here, and thanks!https://buymeacoffee.com/truemediaca

David Fahrenthold on Donald Trump's cabinet changes and his threat of harsh tariffs // Chris Sullivan with a Chokepoint: Preparing for "Revive I-5" part 2 // Chris Fox on Trump's border czar visiting the southern border-LIVE // Linda Gradstein in Jerusalem on the latest ceasefire proposal // Gee Scott on Seattle Public Schools not closing 4 elementary schools in 2025

In this introductory trailer for Rainy Day Recess, hosts Christie Robertson and Jasmine Pulido introduce their new podcast, which focuses on making Seattle Public Schools' decisions and policies accessible and understandable to the community. As former hosts of Seattle Hall Pass, they reflect on their journey and bid farewell to their co-host Jane Tunks Demel.They outline their mission to empower listeners with weekly updates, event highlights, expert interviews, and stories from students, parents, and community members. With a focus on collaboration and understanding, the hosts aim to help listeners navigate Seattle's school district "one rainy day at a time." Stay tuned for their new website, logo, and upcoming episodes!Contact usSupport the showContact us at hello@rainydayrecess.org.Rainy Day Recess music by Lester Mayo.

What’s Trending: Seattle parents are trying to recall the Seattle Public Schools president over potential school closures in the district. Matt Gaetz made another surprising cabinet pick today by nominating Matt Gaetz for Attorney General. // Big Local: Two Lacey parents are facing murder charges for allegedly trying to kill their daughter in an “honor killing.” King County Executive Dow Constantine announced he will not run for reelection next year. Due to mandates from Major League Baseball, the City of Everett must either renovate the Aquasox baseball stadium or build a new one. If they don’t, they will lose the team. // A TikTok food critic reviewed restaurants in Seattle.

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, hosts Christie, Jane, and Jasmine dive into the data-rich presentation on Seattle Public Schools' student outcomes, delivered by Dr. Ray Hart, Executive Director of the Council of Great City Schools, at the October 23rd special school board meeting. They break down the findings on student performance trends, equity gaps, and economic factors affecting achievement. The hosts also explore the subsequent board discussion, where school directors reviewed draft goals proposed by district staff for the upcoming strategic plan.See our Show NotesContact usSupport the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, school board director Gina Topp discusses the school closure plans with co-hosts Christie and Jane. The three also discuss Seattle Public Schools' $94 million budget gap, the upcoming legislative session, community engagement, and student outcomes-focused governance. See our Show NotesContact usSupport the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we dive into Seattle Public Schools' proposal to close and consolidate four elementary schools: North Beach, Sacajawea, Stevens, and Sanislo. Christie, Jane, and Jasmine explore critical questions surrounding the district's decision-making process, including the criteria used for selecting these schools, the potential impacts on special education services, and how transitions might affect students and staff. We discuss community concerns, staffing changes, and the broader implications for the SPS landscape.See our Show Notes.Contact us.Support the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we sit down with former Seattle Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Stephen Nielsen to understand the implications of “binding conditions” and potential state oversight for Seattle Public Schools if it can't close its budget gap. Nielsen shares his insights on what financial oversight might look like, the difficult cuts that could follow, and the complex history of Washington's education funding.See our Show NotesContact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person's opinions are their own. Support the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

I am a dad. That means I worry almost constantly about our kids. This week, I met two lovely people who made me worry a tiny bit less about how I am doing as a parent. You may have heard of Dr. David Baker. He’s a genius who works at UW on creating brand new proteins.  He was just awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work. He’s a pretty big deal. What you may not have heard, is that long before he was a Nobel recipient, he was a kid in Seattle Public Schools. He went to Garfield High School and what was then Meany Junior High.

Detainee dies at ICE facility in Tacoma, former SPD chief Adrian Diaz files tort claim against city, and Seattle Public Schools settles sexual abuse lawsuit. It's our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW. We want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Halloween-inspired episode, our hosts explore recent highlights in NREL's research, including: A look into the potential of geothermal heat pumps (GHPs). NREL's 19 new case studies provide real-world GHP examples across various U.S. climate zones, with installations at the NREL Alaska Campus, Seattle Public Schools, and more.  A gathering of “Sun Nerds” at the NREL Pyrheliometer Comparisons (NPC) event, during which scientists from around the world had the chance to calibrate solar measurement tools, ensuring accuracy for solar energy and climate research. How researchers throughout the U.S. can utilize NREL's Kestrel Supercomputer for their projects. Students from across the country used Kestrel's computing power to advance clean energy projects, including modeling solar wind effects on energy grids, developing hydrogen-based engines, and optimizing vehicle designs. Learn more about these cutting-edge clean energy innovations shaping the future! This episode was hosted by Kerrin Jeromin and Taylor Mankle, written and produced by Allison Montroy and Kaitlyn Stottler, and edited by James Wilcox, Joe DelNero, and Brittany Falch. Graphics are by Brittnee Gayet. Our title music is written and performed by Ted Vaca and episode music by Chuck Kurnik, Jim Riley, and Mark Sanseverino of Drift BC. Transforming Energy: The NREL Podcast is created by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado. We express our gratitude and acknowledge that the land we are on is the traditional and ancestral homelands of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute peoples. Email us at podcast@nrel.gov. Follow NREL on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Threads, and Facebook.

Cordell Carter, Esq. Convenor | Leaders, Ideas, and Experiences Cordell Carter, Esq. is a dynamic leader, speaker, and advisor known for his relentless pursuit of a world where everyone belongs and has opportunities to thrive. As the long-term executive director of the Aspen Institute Socrates Program (2017-2024) and founding director of the Project on Belonging, Cordell curates transformative, off-the-record leadership seminars in capital cities across the globe, shaping the perspectives of over 1,500 leaders annually.   Cordell's passion for creating inclusive spaces led him to establish the Festival of the Diaspora in Medellín, Colombia—a powerful summit (deemed the secular tent revival) uniting diasporic communities across the Americas. As the founder of Expectant Advisory, LLC, he helps leaders and boards navigate their inclusion and belonging journeys with thoughtful strategy and foresight. His leadership journey spans prestigious roles at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, IBM, Seattle Public Schools, and the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools. He is a sought-after speaker and facilitator on belonging, inclusion, post-secondary success, and the democratic ideals that hold our society together. Cordell is also the author of the groundbreaking keynote series, "Becoming an Inclusive Republic," a forthcoming book of the same name, and the producer of the documentary “The Road Trip to Belonging." In recognition of his expertise and leadership, Cordell was appointed by President Biden to the President's Commission on White House Fellowships and has received numerous accolades, including being named a 2023 Minority Executive Making Moves, a 2021 Champion of Change for Computer Science Education, and a distinguished Eisenhower Fellow to China. Cordell also serves as a Board Director for Concordia, Orbit Capital, Oasis Fresh Markets, Redemption Holdings, and the International Advisory Committee of Danubius University (Galatz, Romania). Finally, he is a limited partner with the Fvlcrum Fund and Mendoza Ventures. His influence stretches far and wide. He has spoken in 15 countries and 20 U.S. states on topics such as liberal democracy, belonging, and civic faith. Cordell's leadership extends to corporate boardrooms, advising companies like SkillStorm in their mission to upskill underserved communities. He holds degrees from the University of Notre Dame, Carnegie Mellon University, and the University of Washington, and his thought leadership continues to shape the national and global conversation around equity, inclusion, and the future of democracy. https://CordellCarter.com  

On this Tuesday topical show re-air, Crystal learns about north King County's innovative new Regional Crisis Response (RCR) Agency with its inaugural Executive Director Brook Buettner and Kenmore Mayor Nigel Herbig. Following national guidelines and best practices for behavioral health crisis care, a five-city consortium established RCR in 2023 as part of a vision to provide their region with the recommended continuum of behavioral health care - which includes someone to call, someone to respond, and somewhere to go. Executive Director Buettner and Mayor Herbig share how the program grew out of a need for a person-centered mobile crisis response, rather than the traditional law enforcement response which is often without the right tools or expertise for the job. They describe the collaborative process of getting buy-in from police agencies, electeds, and city staff to design a service that has evolved from the RADAR co-response program to approaching a 24/7 behavioral health first response. Finally, they cover impressive early results in cost-savings & outcomes and offer advice to other cities looking to bring similar solutions to their own communities. As always, a full text transcript of the show and resources is available below and at officialhacksandwonks.com. Follow us on Bluesky at @HacksAndWonks. Find the host, Crystal Fincher, on Bluesky @finchfrii and find Mayor Nigel Herbig on X at @nigelherbig.   Brook Buettner Brook Buettner is inaugural Executive Director of the groundbreaking Regional Crisis Response Agency, which deploys services to people experiencing behavioral health crisis in the North King County community. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an experienced human services professional with a focus on policy advocacy and program implementation for high-needs populations. During her two decade-long career, she has been focused on transforming systems to meet the needs of individuals who are high utilizers of both criminal legal and health and human services systems. Ms. Buettner holds Masters in Public Administration and Social Work from the University of Washington. Mayor Nigel Herbig Nigel grew up in the Seattle neighborhood of Wallingford, attended Seattle Public Schools, and graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Political Science and Comparative Religion. Nigel and his wife, Tiffany, decided to move to Kenmore when their daughter was a baby as they were looking for a great place to raise their daughter where they could purchase their first home. They have never regretted that decision. Nigel has worked in broadcasting, fundraising, and politics. He currently works at the King County Regional Homelessness Authority. Mayor Herbig represents the Council on the Eastside Transportation Partnership (Vice Chair), and the Sound Transit SR 522 Bus Rapid Transit Elected Leaders Group. He also sits on the King County Affordable Housing Committee.  

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we discuss school and student safety in Seattle Public Schools, featuring interviews with students, staff, and parents. We explore concerns about balancing physical safety measures with the need for mental health support, sharing perspectives on a $20 million initially promised from the city for mental health. Voices from the community highlight the role of telehealth, community organizations like Community Passageways, and the controversial possibility of the return of School Resource Officers (SROs). Interviewees offer suggestions for improving safety, including wellness rooms and better communication between students and administrators.Community voices featured in this episode include:Rafi Brewer, a sophomore at Garfield High SchoolFatra Hussein, a junior at Franklin High SchoolIsaiah Parker, a student at Ingraham High SchoolKaz Hill, a student at Ingraham High SchoolShraddha Shrudde, a math teacher at Cleveland High SchoolLexi Awdziejczyk, a counselor at Franklin High SchoolAlicia Spanswick, co-president of the PTSA at Garfield High SchoolKathleen Zagers, president of the parent organization at Ingraham High SchoolSee our Show NotesContact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person's opinions are their own. Support the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, School Board Director Joe Mizrahi shares his perspective on Seattle Public Schools' plans for addressing declining enrollment and budget deficits. Director Mizrahi emphasizes the importance of minimizing impacts on students and families, focusing on a more thoughtful and community-centered approach to school closures. He touches as well on the role of state funding and community advocacy in shaping the future of Seattle's schools. We also discuss his thoughts on school board operations and dynamics.See our Show NotesContact UsSupport the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

In this first episode of our Option C series, we explore alternatives to Seattle Public Schools' closure plans, known as Options A and B, which initially proposed closing up to 21 schools. Our guest, Ben Gitenstein, an SPS parent and former school board candidate, introduces the idea of a school board recall as his "Option C" in response to what he sees as the school board's undemocratic and ideological actions. Our guests' opinions are their own.See our Show NotesContact usSupport the showMusic by Sarah, the Illstrumentalist, logo by Carmen Lau-Woo.

Bill Radke discusses the week's news with writer and editor Sarah Anne Lloyd, Seattle Times Claudia Rowe, and political and public affairs consultant Sandeep Kaushik.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s Trending: JD Vance became the front runner for the 2028 GOP presidential nomination last night, but will his strong debate performance have an affect on this election cycle? Tim Walz appeared and had a few very awkward moments, particularly when he was asked about his lie that he was in China during the Tiananmen Square massacre. // Israeli soldiers engaged Hezbollah terrorists in a minor ground incursion into Lebanon today. The Brandeis Center has filed a civil rights complaint against the University of Washington for the treatment of Jewish students on campus. // Despite the district’s ongoing budget crisis, Seattle Public Schools decided to give the superintendent a raise.

What’s Trending: Despite yesterday’s court ruling, the King County Sheriff’s Office is still refusing to enforce Burien’s no camping ordinance. The Saint Louis superintendent—who used to work for Seattle Public Schools—was fired by the school board due to budget issues. // Big Local: The Tacoma police Chief Avery Moore has been placed on administrative leave but it’s a mystery as to why. A refugee camp in Kent has finally been cleared. Residents in Southwest Washington have been bemused by a mysterious odor that isn’t very pleasant. // Despite being a climate change alarmist, Kamala Harris has spent millions on private jets.

What’s Trending: Some Seattle sports teams are at least signaling that they may have to cut ties with Macklemore after his anti-American and antisemitic remarks at a concert over the weekend. Seattle Public Schools are pulling back from their school closure plans. // LongForm: GUEST: Steve Autio (SILSA NW president) is livid by the new Seattle burglary policy. // The Quick Hit: George Soros is closing in on control of hundreds of radio stations.

5pm: Guest - Auburn Police Department PIO Kolby Crossley on How They Recovered John’s Stolen Car // Seattle Public Schools cancels upcoming community meetings, retooling plan on potential closures // Survey Finds One-Third of Former NFL Players Believe They Suffer from Brain Injury // Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre says he has Parkinson’s disease // Letters 

What’s Trending: Bob Ferguson didn’t fare so well during last night’s gubernatorial debate when Dave Reichert directly questioned him on crime. Seattle Public Schools held a meeting regarding the closure of a school for deaf children that had one glaring omission… and ASL interpreter. // LongForm: GUEST: Tommy Pigott (RNC Communications Director) reacts to the latest troubling news from a whistleblower at the USSS, plus what do the polls say about black voter support for Trump?  // The Quick Hit: Pramila Jayapal claims immigrants pay more in taxes than the 1% top earners. Is this true? Not even remotely close.

This week…  Seattle Public Schools welcomed students back, but there are concerns about their physical and mental safety.  The New York Times gave its recommendations for spending 36 hours in Seattle, including quite a few stops in the U-District. And knock knock! campaigns in the tight Public Lands Commissioner race sent people door to door to make sure their ballots counted. Rachel Belle and Maleeha Syed are here from Cascade PBS to break down the week.  Afropunk Seattle: https://www.kexp.org/events/kexp-events/afropunk-seattle/ We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. You have the power! Make the show happen by making a gift to KUOW: https://www.kuow.org/donate/seattlenow And we want to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram at SeattleNowPod, or leave us feedback online: https://www.kuow.org/feedback See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s Trending: Kamala Harris is slated to sit down for her first longform interview with CNN tonight and she is taking heat for bringing VP pick Tim Walz along and not doing it solo.  // Meta Mark Zuckerberg CEO admitted in a letter to the House Judiciary committee that the Biden Administration pressured the company to censor content. Seattle Public Schools is slated to close 20 elementary schools due to low enrollment. // Washington State Superintendent Chris Reykdal is encouraging schools to ban cell phone usage in the classroom.