Inside the Literacy Crisis: One Teacher’s Bold Stand at Rise Academy

Episode 10- Lights, Legacy, Action: Adam Weick and the Power of Theatre at RMSA

Episode 10 of The Watchmen Podcast we sit down with Adam Weick and take you inside the powerful impact of theatre education at Rollings Middle School of the Arts. In this episode, we explore how creativity, mentorship, and teamwork come together to shape students both on and off the stage. From Greek theatre history to modern student productions, this conversation highlights how the arts build confidence, leadership, and resilience in young people. This episode goes beyond performance—it’s about growth, connection, and the lasting influence educators have on the next generation. Music by Elysium audio labs www.elysiumaudiolabs.com Lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn513

Superior with Distinction: The Mindset Behind the Music

What does it take to build a program where excellence isn’t the goal… it’s the standard? In this powerful episode of The Watchmen Podcast, we take you inside Rollings Middle School of the Arts and explore a culture where discipline, preparation, and belief in our youth are producing extraordinary results. From earning Superior with Distinction at Choral Performance Assessment—where students are challenged to sight-read and perform music in just seven minutes with no assistance… To taking first place at a national competition at Universal Studios… To consistently producing some of the highest numbers of All-State Chorus students… This episode goes beyond the performances and into the mindset behind the success. We dive into what it takes to lead at a high level, how standards are built and maintained, and the impact that mentorship and accountability can have on young people. Music by Elysium audio labs www.elysiumaudiolabs.com lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn513

Inside the Literacy Crisis: One Teacher’s Bold Stand at Rise Academy

In this impactful episode of The Watchmen Podcast, Deputy Wes Slusher sits down with Kimberly Bender, an educator at Rise Academy Alternative School in Dorchester District Two, to discuss the powerful connection between literacy and life outcomes. With research showing that a majority of individuals in the justice system struggle with reading, this conversation highlights why literacy is more than education — it is prevention. Kimberly shares her personal journey, her work with students often labeled “at-risk,” and the vision behind the Rise Readers Initiative — a program focused on building confidence, strengthening families, and breaking generational cycles through literacy. This episode dives into the importance of early intervention, community engagement, and investing in our youth before challenges become consequences. Because when we invest in literacy, we invest in safer communities, stronger families, and better futures. Music by Elysium audio Labs www.elysiumaudiolabs.com lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn513

Purpose behind the scenes: Theater, Film, Faith, and Finding your lane

Leadership doesn’t always stand in the spotlight. In this episode, Deputy Slusher sits down with a Rollings alum whose journey spans theater, film, mission work, and mentorship. From backstage beginnings to working on major productions — and pivoting during the 2020 shutdown — this is a story of purpose, resilience, and serving behind the scenes. Music by Elysium audio labs Track "Play Hard" www.elysiumaudiolabs.com lic: http;//bit.ly/3pzpn513

Beacons Mentoring Group Founder Frankie Staropoli

In this episode, I sit down with Frankie Staropoli, the founder of the Beacons Mentoring Group, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about investing in our youth and the life changing impact of mentorship. Frankie shares the story behind Beacons, the mission that drives the program, and why showing up consistently for our young people can change the trajectory of their lives. From building confidence to creating accountability and opportunity, this conversation highlights why mentorship matters now more then ever. I also want to extend a sincere thank you to Adriana Melendez and Mike Greer from the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center for their outstanding technical support and behind the scenes work. This episode is about purpose, leadership, and the responsibility we all share in shaping the next generation beaconsmentoring.org Music By Elysium Audio Labs Track "Play Hard" www.elysiumaudiolabs.com Lic:http://bit.ly/3pzpn513