Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast

EPISODE 62: Behind the Scenes, Making a Difference

In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with three outstanding district leaders recognized at the Annual Recognition Banquet. Lisa Erickson, Dorothy Norrington, and Megan England represent the growing group of certified non-teachers whose work often happens behind the scenes but makes a lasting impact on students, teachers, and schools. They share their journeys from the classroom into specialized roles, discuss how their work supports instruction and student success, and reflect on what it means to be recognized for contributions that are not always visible. This conversation highlights the teamwork, trust, and shared commitment that help schools thrive.

EPISODE 61: Removing Barriers: Inside the Teen Center at Deseret Peak High School

What happens when students have a place where they feel supported, seen, and ready to focus on learning? In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst records from Deseret Peak High School to spotlight the Teen Center and the people behind some of the district’s most meaningful student support services. Joined by Jennifer Firth, the district’s McKinney‑Vento Liaison; Kristine Naylor, Director of At‑Risk Students and Teen Centers; and Denise Martin, Teen Center aide at DPHS, the conversation explores how removing everyday barriers can completely change a student’s school experience. Listeners hear how access to resources like food, hygiene items, laundry, quiet study space, and trusted adults helps students feel confident, connected, and ready to learn. The episode also features a powerful student letter describing how the DPHS Teen Center helped her improve her grades, rebuild confidence, and find a place where she truly belongs. This is an uplifting, honest look at how schools, community partners, and the Tooele Education Foundation work together to support students not just academically, but socially and personally as well — and why these quiet supports matter more than most people realize.

EPISODE 60: Grantsville Girls Wrestling - A Budding Dynasty

In this episode of Elevated Insights, we step onto the mat with members of the Grantsville High School girls wrestling team, one of the Utah's fastest‑growing sports with one of the most successful programs. Joined by Superintendent Ernst and student cohost Rebekah Smith, the athletes share what motivates them, how the sport has shaped their confidence and resilience, and what it’s like to be part of a program that has earned multiple state titles and top finishes in its early years. With stories of teamwork, grit, and personal growth, this episode showcases the heart of a program that’s inspiring students and redefining what’s possible in girls wrestling across Utah.

EPISODE 59: Small Thinkers, Big Ideas... A Visit with GEM Students

In this episode of Elevated Insights, we take listeners inside the GEM program, where students explore creative thinking, problem‑solving, and hands‑on academic challenges. Joined by gifted‑and‑talented teacher Stacie Blake and several GEM students, Superintendent Ernst talks with them about what makes the program meaningful, how it supports different learning styles, and why providing additional learning options helps students grow. The students even share a fun challenge for the Superintendent to try on air. It’s a fun, uplifting look at how the GEM program sparks curiosity and confidence in young learners.

EPISODE 58: From Grantsville to Sydney... A Conversation with Olympian Amy Palmer

As the Winter Olympics conclude in Italy, Elevated Insights brings the Olympic spirit close to home. Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with Tooele County’s own Olympian, Amy Palmer. Amy represented the United States in the hammer throw at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games after a record‑breaking career at Grantsville High School and Brigham Young University. Today, she teaches at Stansbury Junior High School, inspiring students in the classroom and in life. In this episode, Amy reflects on her journey from local competition to the world stage, the lessons she learned as a competitor, and how she now brings that experience into her teaching. Join us for this fun and insightful discussion with our own Olympian... and did anyone notice the “6/7” reference Amy made along the way? Her students are sure to catch it.