What It Takes to Start a School – And How Learning Lab Helps

The Confidence to Lead, with Audra Dinell, Founder of The Thread

Self compassion is at the root of growing into the best version of ourselves, says Audra Dinell, founder of The Thread and host of A LOT with Audra. In this episode of Let’s Get Personal, Audra reflects on the teacher who first recognized her leadership potential, the joys and challenges of motherhood, and her family's experience with neurodivergence. She also shares how she found the work she was meant to do and what she's learned about building confidence and community. Listen to Audra's podcast, A LOT with Audra, here [https://alotwithaudra.transistor.fm/].

FutureReady: Connecting Students to Careers

How are schools tangibly preparing students for the future workforce? Four years ago, Wichita Public Schools partnered with WSU Tech to launch its first FutureReady Center, giving students hands-on experience in manufacturing. Today, the FutureReady program has expanded from one center to three, with additional opportunities in the works. In this episode, Eric Shipman, principal of FutureReady Centers, discusses why schools should focus on training kids for in-demand jobs, and he shares about the values that have guided his own journey in education.

More Than Books: Inside Wichita Public Library with Savannah Ball

As the literacy services librarian at the Wichita Public Library, Savannah Ball combines her deep commitment to helping people access the resources they need to thrive with her love for books. Driven by a passion for helping others, Ball connects people with resources, opportunities and stories that help them grow. Her own educational journey gives her perspective on the importance of supporting people in finding their own right path. In this episode, Lydia, Kristin and Savannah talk about the role of libraries in a community, swap favorite book recommendations and share practical tips for helping kids become confident readers.

When Isabel Peine Coaches, Every Kid Belongs

Isabel Peine's background is impressive. She earned degrees in biomedical engineering and mathematics while competing as an NCAA Division I cheerleader. But at NTegrity Athletics in Goddard, Peine uses those talents in a different way. She uses her critical-thinking skills to help kids who have disabilities or other differences take tumbling lessons, and she uses her welcoming personality to make all kids feel like they belong. In this episode of Let's Get Personal, hear how this STUNT and ninja warrior coach is making her corner of the world a little brighter for kids.

Finding the Right Fit: Lauren and Learning Lab

Lauren Mason is often the first face families see when they walk into Learning Lab Wichita, and her warmth, organization and care help set the tone for a positive experience. Behind the scenes, Lauren plays a vital role in keeping Learning Lab moving forward, combining relationship-building and project management to support our community of students, families and educators. But, like many people, Lauren did not always know what path she wanted her career to take. An internship at Learning Lab provided a twist she never saw coming. In this episode of Let's Get Personal, Lauren shares how working in the right environment helped her find fulfillment.