More Than Lunch

More Than Lunch

Ever wonder what it takes to feed thousands of students every single day? This week, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by Christa Lechner, Student Nutrition Manager, and Assistant Manager Kayla Taylor for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the busiest departments in Rapid City Area Schools. From serving more than 1.2 million meals during the school year to navigating power outages, food deliveries, staffing challenges, and summer meal programs, this team keeps students fed no matter what. They also share how school meals have evolved, why today's cafeteria food is healthier than many people realize, the surprising menu favorites students love, and how their growing catering program is serving events across the district. Plus, the conversation gets fun with favorite school lunches, recess memories, local ice cream shops, and the Rapid City restaurants they can't resist. It's an inside look at the people who prove school nutrition is about much more than what's on the lunch tray. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Rapid City Area Schools' "Print-cess"

Behind every worksheet, yearbook, graduation program, and student certificate is someone making it all happen. This week on the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Angela Buskerud, the Rapid City Area Schools Print Shop Supervisor, whose work quietly impacts every classroom across the district. From producing nearly 2 million printed pages every month to creating more than 54,000 spiral-bound books each school year, Angela shares what it takes to keep 22 schools running behind the scenes. Hear how she balances constant rush requests, why teachers trust her with their biggest projects, and the heartwarming story of students seeing their own published books for the very first time. Angela also reflects on the importance of support staff, the joy of helping students succeed, and why a simple printed page can make a lasting difference. If you've ever wondered who keeps schools moving long before the first bell rings, this episode is for you. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

The Morning Nest

What started as a simple idea to help students prepare for the school day has grown into one of Wilson Elementary's most impactful programs. In this episode, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Wilson Elementary Counselor of the Year Brittany Henry-James and recent Central High School graduate Melissa Saucerman to discuss the Morning Nest. Held twice a week before school, the Morning Nest provides students with hygiene supplies, hair care, self-care resources and, most importantly, a sense of belonging. Students gather to connect with friends, receive encouragement, build confidence and start their day in a supportive environment. The program has become a place where relationships grow, students help one another and school staff can connect with children in meaningful ways. Brittany shares how the idea came to life through a Rapid City Public School Foundation grant, while Melissa reflects on her experience volunteering and the impact the program has had on younger students. Together, they explore the importance of creating welcoming spaces where students feel seen, supported and ready to learn. Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, mentorship, community support and the small acts of care that can make a lasting difference in a child's day. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Building Belonging One Spirit Award at a Time

What happens when schools focus on recognizing what students are doing right? In this episode, hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with South Middle School educator Stacy Cole and Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings teacher Marie Herbert to discuss the impact of the Spirit Awards program. Supported through a Rapid City Public School Foundation grant, the program celebrates students who demonstrate self control, perseverance, integrity, respect, initiative and teamwork. The conversation explores how positive reinforcement can build confidence, strengthen relationships between schools and families, and help students develop the skills needed for success both inside and outside the classroom. Stacy shares inspiring stories of student growth, while Marie explains how the values behind the program connect to the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and create a stronger sense of belonging for all students. From recognizing small victories to creating lasting change, this episode highlights how a simple certificate and a few words of encouragement can make a powerful difference in a student's life. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Student Photographers Finding Their Future

Photography is more than taking pictures. It is about telling stories, capturing emotion, and seeing the world from a different perspective. In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School photography teacher Roxanne Rathbun and graduating senior Kennedy Block to talk about the power of photography in public education. The conversation explores how students develop creative skills through photography, the importance of perspective, and how a partnership with the Rapid City Post is giving students real world journalism experience. Kennedy shares how her work photographing sports led to published articles and a new role as a freelance photographer and journalist after graduation. From double exposure photography and dream photo destinations to the impact great teachers have on students' lives, this episode highlights how public schools help students turn their passions into future careers. It is a story about creativity, mentorship, and the opportunities that happen when educators believe in their students. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.