Shaking the Tree: A Royal Oak Schools Podcast

Shaking the Tree (Ep. 20): Lindsey Potterack

This week, Dr. Tafelski is joined by Lindsey Potterack for a conversation about a new program she helped launched this year, Black Girl MATHgic. This patented learning tool is designed to foster math confidence while helping students strengthen their understanding of over 10 math concepts, build ELA skills, and explore connections to Black history through engaging, hands-on instruction. In-studio interviews feature Lindsey Potterack, Teacher and Math Interventionist at Royal Oak Middle School, along with students Chassidy Davis (8th grade) and Milani Moore (8th grade), who share how Black Girl MATHgic is shaping their approach to learning and building confidence in the classroom. Tune in to learn how this innovative program is supporting academic growth, cultural connection, and student success across Royal Oak Schools.

Shaking the Tree (Ep. 19): Sam English & Briana Decker

This week, Dr. Tafelski is joined by new student co-host Stella Rogers for a conversation about the impact of robotics programs across Royal Oak Schools and the broader community. Junior students Sam English, co-pit captain and lead FLL Challenge mentor, and Brianna Decker, co-technician, co-pit captain, and impact presenter, share how robotics has helped students build leadership, teamwork, and STEM skills while mentoring younger learners throughout the district and in Detroit outreach programs. We also hear from Keller Elementary students Ben Lutz (5th grade), Connor McLeod (3rd grade), and Lauren Ng (4th grade) as they talk about their favorite parts of robotics, the challenges they faced, and what makes the experience exciting. Tune in to hear how robotics is inspiring students of all ages through innovation, collaboration, and community impact.

Shaking the Tree (Ep. 18): Marcella Rogers & Nellie Harrie

This week, Dr. Tafelski is joined by our new student co-host, Stella Rogers, for a conversation focused on the impact of the PTA across Royal Oak Schools. We’re joined by Marcella Rogers, President of the Royal Oak Council PTA. Marcella’s children attended Upton Elementary and are now in 8th and 10th grade, and she is also a PTA member at ROMS and ROHS. Additionally, Nellie Harrie, Member at Large for the Royal Oak Council PTA, joins the conversation. Nellie’s children attended Oakland and include a 5th grader, 8th grader, and 10th grader. She is also a PTA member at Oakland, ROMS, and ROHS. We also hear from Jess Sorbo, a PTA member at Northwood Elementary who chairs the Science Olympiad event and Trunk or Treat, and Tiffany Vosburg, President of the ROMS PTA and Vice President of Events for Michigan PTA. Learn more about the PTA and how to get involved: ⁠https://www.royaloakschools.org/parents__guardians/district_p_t_a⁠ [https://www.royaloakschools.org/parents__guardians/district_p_t_a?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

Shaking the Tree (Ep. 17): Stella Rogers & Rachel McGowan

This week, Dr. Tafelski sits down with Royal Oak High School seniors Stella Rogers and Rachel McGowan to talk about their future plans and reflect on what high school has meant to them. You’ll also hear from students across the district as they share what they’re most excited about in their next chapter—from preschool to kindergarten, fifth grade to sixth grade, and eighth grade to ninth grade.

Shaking the Tree (Ep. 16): Dr. Jennifer Kowalkowski & Kerry Derminer (part 2)

This week, Dr. Tafelski sits down with Dr. Jennifer Kowalkowski, parent and Bond Steering Committee Member, and Kerry Derminer, ROMS Math Teacher and Royal Oak Education Association President, to take a closer look at the 2026 Bond Proposal. They explore the long-term improvements that go beyond the district’s day-to-day operating budget. The conversation dives into the work of the Bond Steering Committee, showing how community input, facility priorities, and financial strategy come together to build a thoughtful, responsible proposal. Listeners will learn how key decisions were made, where investments are focused, and what it all means for students, staff, and the broader community. This is part 2 of a 2-part series.