Thinking Out Loud with JCHS

Busy, Balanced, and Becoming: Ever Keegstra’26 on Finding Her Footing at JCHS

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2536241/fan_mail/new] What does it take to balance a demanding dance schedule, academics, leadership, service, and still make time for friends? In this episode, graduating senior Ever Keegstra reflects on how four years at JCHS helped her grow from a nervous ninth grader into a confident young adult ready for her next chapter at UC Santa Barbara. Ever shares how meaningful relationships, strong routines, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone shaped her high school experience. She offers an honest look at managing a packed schedule while staying engaged in the things she loves. To find out more about JCHS, visit www.jchsofthebay.org. [http://www.jchsofthebay.org/] Follow us on Instagram at @JCHSWolves, and on YouTube at @JCHSOnline.

How Keystone Builds Real-World Thinking with Robin Gluck, Librarian & Keystone Coordinator

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2536241/fan_mail/new] What happens when students are trusted to design their own learning and take it out into the real world? This week, we connect with JCHS librarian and Keystone director Robin Gluck to explore how the school’s signature senior project transforms curiosity into meaningful, real-world work. Through four key pillars—project management, communication, iteration, and community engagement—students learn to navigate challenges, connect with experts, and build something that extends well beyond the classroom. Gluck shares powerful stories of students who turn personal passions into impactful projects, created for authentic audiences. Find out why Keystone is more than a capstone—it’s a formative experience that builds confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills. To find out more about JCHS, visit www.jchsofthebay.org. [http://www.jchsofthebay.org/] Follow us on Instagram at @JCHSWolves, and on YouTube at @JCHSOnline.

Becoming More You: Finding Confidence in Unexpected Places with Henry Barenbaum ‘26

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2536241/fan_mail/new] What happens when you find the place where you can truly just be yourself? In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, senior Henry Barenbaum reflects on his decision to transfer to JCHS and how this welcoming, connected community helped him grow in confidence and authenticity. He shares an honest perspective on living with autism—highlighting both the challenges and the strengths that have shaped his identity and social growth. From speaking openly on student panels to designing a creative Keystone project around the “perfect burger,” Henry’s journey offers a thoughtful look at self-discovery, resilience, and the power of being fully yourself. To find out more about JCHS, visit www.jchsofthebay.org. [http://www.jchsofthebay.org/] Follow us on Instagram at @JCHSWolves, and on YouTube at @JCHSOnline.

Where Curiosity Meets Possibility: Saying Yes to Challenge—and What Comes Next with Bennett Taubman ‘24

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2536241/fan_mail/new] What if the moments that challenge you most are the ones that shape you most? In this episode, Bennett Taubman (JCHS’24, Dartmouth College ‘28) reflects on how stepping outside his comfort zone at JCHS—from theater to AP Comparative Government—sparked unexpected passions and shaped his path to Dartmouth. He shares how academic challenge, creative exploration, and learning to manage real struggle prepared him for both the freedom and responsibility of college life. Along the way, Bennett offers an honest look at growth: balancing ambition, building community, and discovering when to say no. It’s a thoughtful, energizing conversation about curiosity, resilience, and making the most of every opportunity. To find out more about JCHS, visit www.jchsofthebay.org. [http://www.jchsofthebay.org/] Follow us on Instagram at @JCHSWolves, and on YouTube at @JCHSOnline.

Educating the Whole Student, From Classroom to Field with Aaron Pollock, History Teacher and Soccer Coach

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2536241/fan_mail/new] What if the true measure of a school isn’t just academic excellence, but how deeply every student feels seen, challenged, and supported? In this episode of Thinking Out Loud, we are talking with veteran educator and coach Aaron Pollock about the power of small classrooms, intentional differentiation, and a culture rooted in meeting each student “according to their way.” Mr. Pollock reflects on how JCHS’s strong sense of community—especially as a Jewish institution—creates both a safety net and a source of pride, particularly in the wake of the October 7 attacks. Drawing parallels between the classroom and the soccer field, he highlights how growth, patience, and shared responsibility allow students of all levels to develop into confident leaders. To find out more about JCHS, visit www.jchsofthebay.org. [http://www.jchsofthebay.org/] Follow us on Instagram at @JCHSWolves, and on YouTube at @JCHSOnline.