Inspire Shasta, Episode 20: Rural Roots, Powerful Voices: Advocacy for Rural Schools

Inspire Shasta, Episode 21: Building Innovators: How STEM is Transforming Learning

Guests: * Brian Grigsby * Kadence Angel * Catherine Thompson In this episode of Inspire Shasta, we explore how STEM and Career Technical Education (CTE) programs are transforming learning for students across Shasta County. From robotics and CAD design to collaborative math classrooms and NASA-inspired projects, this conversation highlights the power of hands-on learning, creativity, critical thinking, and student voice.  In This Episode *  How CTE courses connect students to real-world careers  *  The impact of hands-on STEM learning and industry certifications  *  Why failure, collaboration, and critical thinking matter in education  *  New approaches to math instruction focused on confidence and problem-solving  *  How student voice and peer collaboration are shaping classrooms  *  The importance of industry partnerships and career exploration opportunities  *  Encouragement for students to step outside their comfort zones and try new experiences  Highlights from the Conversation *  Brian Grigsby shares how students design robotics systems, spacecraft concepts, and 3D models using professional-level software and technology.  *  Kadence Angel explains how self-paced, project-based learning has helped her build confidence, earn industry certifications, and explore future career pathways.  *  Catherine Thompson discusses efforts across Shasta County to reimagine math instruction through collaboration, problem-solving, and “Building Thinking Classrooms.”  *  The group discusses how creating safe spaces for mistakes helps students develop resilience, confidence, and deeper learning.  Memorable Quotes > “You’re getting more than a grade. You’re getting experience that you can translate into proper fields.” — Kadence Angel  > > “Learn how to fail, and learn how to do it well.” — Brian Grigsby  > > “The more we can get kids talking and collaborating within a classroom, I truly believe that’s how they start seeing themselves as mathematicians.” — Catherine Thompson  Resources & Topics Mentioned *  Career Technical Education (CTE)  *  Robotics and industrial automation  *  CAD and 3D design software  *  NASA design challenges  *  Building Thinking Classrooms  *  Industry certifications in AutoCAD, Revit, Inventor, and SolidWorks  *  Rural Math Collaborative  Closing Thoughts This episode is a powerful reminder that education is about much more than grades. It’s about creating environments where students feel safe to explore, collaborate, fail forward, and discover what excites them. Whether through STEM, math, engineering, or hands-on career pathways, students across Shasta County are building skills that will prepare them for whatever comes next.

Inspire Shasta, Episode 20: Rural Roots, Powerful Voices: Advocacy for Rural Schools

In this powerful two-part episode of Inspire Shasta, we explore the challenges, strengths, and future of rural education through the lens of leadership, policy, and student voice. First, Assemblymember Heather Hadwick shares her unique perspective as both a policymaker and lifelong rural resident, offering insight into the realities rural schools face, from funding and staffing shortages to the resilience and innovation that define North State communities. In part two, we hear directly from Fall River High School students Lauren Giessner and Alexa Iniguez, who traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for rural school funding. Their story is a compelling reminder that student voices can drive real change. 🔑 Key Topics & Takeaways 🌄 The Reality of Rural Schools *  Rural districts face unique challenges, including geographic isolation, limited staffing, and declining tax bases.  *  Funding inequities and mandates often disproportionately impact small districts.  🤝 Strength in Community *  Rural schools thrive on deep relationships, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility.  *  Community connection is a defining strength and often a model for the rest of the state.  👩‍🏫 Workforce & Opportunity Gaps *  Recruiting and retaining teachers, staff, and skilled professionals remains a major hurdle.  *  Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways and “grow your own” workforce strategies are critical solutions.  🗣️ Student Voice = Real Impact *  Students advocating for Secure Rural Schools funding helped influence federal action.  *  Personal stories and lived experiences proved more powerful than traditional lobbying.  🌱 Leadership Through FFA & CTE *  Programs like FFA build confidence, leadership, and real-world skills for all students—regardless of background.  *  These opportunities are often the first to be cut without critical funding.  🔥 Resilience Through Adversity *  Rural communities often unite through challenges like wildfires and economic shifts.  *  That resilience fuels innovation and a deep commitment to future generations.  🌟 Featured Guests Heather Hadwick, California Assemblymember, District 1 *  Former educator, school board president, and emergency services leader  *  Advocate for rural communities and education policy  Lauren Giessner & Alexa Iniguez, Students, Fall River High School & FFA *  Youth advocates for rural education funding  *  Emerging leaders using their voices to shape policy  💬 Memorable Moments *  “It’s not how small is too small—it’s how far is too far.”  *  “Our voices made the biggest impact.”  *  “These schools are the heart of our community.”  *  “Be brave. Just go out there and do it.”  🎯 Why This Episode Matters This episode highlights the power of perspective—from policymakers to students—and underscores a central truth: rural communities are not just surviving, they are leading. By elevating student voice and investing in local pathways, the future of rural education is not only hopeful—it’s already in motion. 📣 Call to Action *  Encourage student voice in your schools and communities  *  Support CTE and leadership programs like FFA  *  Advocate for policies that reflect the realities of rural education

Inspire Shasta, Episode 19: Voices of Our Future, A Student-Led Dialogue

Episode Summary In this special episode of Inspire Shasta, we pause to listen directly to the voices of students from across Shasta County. This recorded Student Voices panel features middle school and high school students sharing their honest perspectives about school life today—from AI in the classroom and cell phone policies to feeling prepared for life after graduation. Students also reflect on what helps them feel included at school, the teachers who make the biggest impact, and how adults can better support young people. Their insights highlight both the challenges students face and the many ways educators, administrators, and communities can create stronger learning environments. This conversation is thoughtful, candid, and full of ideas for building more supportive schools. IN THIS EPISODE: AI in Education Students discuss how artificial intelligence is increasingly part of school life. While many see AI as a helpful learning tool—especially for explaining difficult concepts—they also emphasize the importance of using it responsibly. Students raise concerns about: * Overreliance on AI for assignments * Academic integrity and where the line should be drawn * Inaccurate AI detection software * The need for AI literacy education so students learn how to use it ethically and effectively Many students agree AI should support learning—not replace critical thinking.  Cell Phone Policies Cell phone rules vary widely between schools, and students have mixed experiences. They highlight: * Differences between strict phone bans and more flexible policies * Frustration when rules are ignored and not enforced * The importance of teaching responsible technology use rather than simply banning devices  Preparing for Life After High School Students share honest thoughts about how prepared they feel for the future. Common themes include: * Many students rely on their own research to learn about college pathways * Counselor-to-student ratios can make personalized guidance difficult * Students want more information about all post-graduation options, including trades and career pathways * Some feel there is a gap in exposure to opportunities, especially at younger grades Students also suggested more real-world learning opportunities, such as financial literacy, life skills education, career exploration, and internship and job shadow programs.  Belonging and School Culture Students emphasize the importance of feeling connected at school. What helps students feel included: * Clubs, extracurricular activities, and performing arts programs * Supportive teachers who create welcoming classrooms * Opportunities for student voice and leadership Some students also shared that differences in beliefs or identities can make belonging more challenging in certain environments.  The Teachers Who Make a Difference Students repeatedly highlighted the impact of teachers who: * Build genuine relationships with students * Show understanding and flexibility * Treat students with respect * Create structured yet supportive learning environments Many students described teachers who check in with them personally, provide encouragement, and help them feel seen. WHY THIS CONVERSATION MATTERS This episode reminds us that students are thoughtful observers of their own education. When we create spaces for youth voices to be heard, we gain valuable insights that can shape stronger schools and communities. Listening to students is one of the most powerful ways to inspire change.

Inspire Shasta, Episode 18: Safety Through Preparedness & Partnership

In this powerful and timely episode, we explore what safety really means for schools and communities — not just in theory, but in action. Hosts Maggie Joyce and Jenn Cobb sit down with: * Ayla Tucker, Safety Director at the Shasta County Office of Education (SCOE) * Jennifer James, Region 3 Regional Disaster Medical Health Specialist with the Sierra-Sacramento Valley EMS Agency Together, they discuss how collaboration, communication, and proactive planning are strengthening safety and preparedness across Shasta County and beyond. 🔍 In This Episode 🤝 Building Safety Through Partnership * How SCOE supports districts internally and externally to enhance preparedness * Why collaboration between schools, law enforcement, EMS, public health, and fire agencies is critical * The importance of relationship-building before disaster strikes 🚨 What Counts as a “Disaster”? From wildfires and floods to infectious disease and power outages, disasters look different depending on where you stand. The conversation explores: * How rural and regional realities shape emergency response * Why resources and scale matter * The importance of after-action reviews to improve future responses 🏫 Schools as Community Hubs Schools are more than places of learning — they often serve as: * Emergency shelters * Communication hubs * Points of medical distribution * Community gathering centers This makes integrating schools into regional disaster planning absolutely essential. 📢 The Power of Clear Communication Jennifer shares what matters most to her as a parent: * Timely, honest communication * Clear explanations of what happened and what’s being done * Sharing the “why” behind safety decisions The conversation highlights how strong communication builds trust and reduces misinformation. 💻 Navigating the Digital World: Online Safety Initiative Ayla introduces SCOE’s upcoming three-part online safety series in partnership with Common Sense Media. The initiative will: * Provide tools for families, educators, and school leaders * Focus on empowerment rather than fear * Address social media, AI, online predators, and digital well-being * Include a community panel discussion at Mercy Oaks The goal? To bring the entire community together to better support youth in today’s rapidly evolving digital environment. 🏢 Safer Schools Coalition: Standardizing Campus Safety One exciting new initiative involves collaborating with law enforcement to implement a standardized campus building numbering system across Shasta County schools — modeled after a battle grid system. Why it matters: * First responders may not be familiar with every campus layout * Seconds matter in emergencies * Standardization can improve response time and outcomes 💡 Key Takeaways * Safety is not a single program — it’s a system built on relationships. * Preparedness requires practice, planning, and honest evaluation. * Communication is often the most critical (and most challenging) part of any response. * Everyone plays a role — even small contributions matter. * Human connection remains one of our strongest protective factors. 🌟 A Hope for the Next Generation The episode closes with reflections on mentorship, service, and the importance of simplifying life in a fast-paced world. Jennifer shares her hope that future generations prioritize real connection, community involvement, and meaningful contribution — even if it’s just an hour a day.

Inspire Shasta, Episode 17: Student Voice — What Young People Want Adults to Hear

Hosts: Maggie Joyce & Jenn Cobb Guests: * Jacob Garcia, Student Board Member, West Valley High School * Abby Deng, Student Board Member, Enterprise High School * Emily Rogers, Youth Commission Member, Central Valley High School * Reese DeCosta, Youth Commission Member, Shasta High School 🎙️ Episode Summary In this powerful and honest episode of Inspire Shasta, we turn the microphone over to students. Maggie Joyce and Jenn Cobb are joined by SCOE Student Board Members and Youth Commission representatives who share what it’s really like to be a student today—and what they wish adults better understood. From peer pressure and social media to substance use, mental health, and the importance of feeling seen at school, these young leaders speak candidly about the pressures they face and the adults who have made a lasting difference in their lives. Their insights offer a meaningful reminder that student voice isn’t just valuable—it’s essential. 🌟 Topics Covered * What peer pressure really looks like in 2026—and why it’s often subtle, not explicit * How social media shapes popularity, identity, and mental health * Easy access to substances and the role of education and awareness on school campuses * Why asking for help can be one of the hardest things for students to do * The hidden pressures students carry outside of school—jobs, family responsibilities, and stress * What genuine support from teachers looks like (and what feels forced or dismissive) * How small actions—checking in, listening, noticing—make students feel seen * Ideas students would implement as “principal for a day” to improve wellbeing * Advice for middle schoolers who are nervous about starting high school * Coping strategies that help students stay true to themselves * Adults—teachers, counselors, principals, parents—who have made a lasting impact 💬 Memorable Quotes > “Peer pressure isn’t always someone telling you to do something. It’s a quiet need to fit in.”“Social media affects everything—what you wear, how you talk, and how popular you are.”“Sometimes the hardest part isn’t needing help—it’s asking for it.”“The teachers who made the biggest difference spoke to me, not at me.”“It only takes one adult to change a student’s life.” 🌱 Key Takeaways for Educators & Leaders * Relationships matter more than programs * Students notice authenticity immediately * Flexibility and understanding go a long way * Student voice leads to real, positive change * Small moments of connection create lifelong impact ❤️ Final Thoughts This episode is a reminder that when we truly listen to students, we gain insight, clarity, and direction. Their voices help shape better schools, stronger communities, and more supportive systems for the next generation.