Orbert Davis, Jazz Trumpeter on the Genius of Social Symphony

Orbert Davis, Jazz Trumpeter on the Genius of Social Symphony

Today’s episode of The One takes us deep into the rhythm of resilience, vision, and heart. I had the great privilege of sitting down with Orbert Davis — jazz trumpeter, composer, arranger, educator, and proud alumnus of Momence Schools. But if you’re expecting a conversation filled only with name drops, accolades, and performance credentials, let me prepare you for something far more expansive. Orbert’s journey from a shy first grader to an internationally respected artist and educator is more than a story of musical mastery — it’s a testament to the quiet power of human connection. A mouthpiece before he had a trumpet. A car ride every Saturday for four years with a mentor who asked for nothing but legacy in return. A curriculum built from the bridge between music and language, helping kids not only learn to read and count but to believe in who they are and what they can become. And through it all — whether performing in Havana, lifting students in Chicago, or composing alongside musicians from around the world — Orbert has never strayed from his roots. This conversation is a tribute to the community that shaped him, the people who believed in him, and the enduring belief that music and love are tools not just for expression but for transformation. You're going to love this one.

The Art of Life: Tomlyn Brza

From graduating college at the height of a global pandemic to becoming an educator, a soccer coach, and an exhibiting artist, Tomlyn Brza has carved out a path that blends creativity, leadership, and a deep commitment to students. Whether she’s guiding young artists through self-expression, leading athletes on the field, or showcasing her own work in galleries, she embodies the power of lifelong learning and exploration. Today, we’ll dive into her unique teaching philosophy, her journey from student to teacher, and how the arts and athletics have shaped the way she connects with young people. So, whether you’re a teacher, a coach, an artist, or just someone who loves a great story, you’re in for a fantastic conversation.

Paying the Bills, Powering Schools: A Conversation with Helen Giba

Today, we’re taking a look behind the scenes at one of the most essential roles in keeping Momence Schools running smoothly. Often, when we think about the people who make a school function, we think about teachers, coaches, principals, and counselors. But there’s an entire team working behind the scenes to ensure that bills get paid, budgets are balanced, and the financial foundation of the district stays strong. Today, I’m sitting down with Helen Giba, Momence High School’s longtime Assistant Bookkeeper who serves as the Accounts Payable Clerk, someone who has dedicated decades to the district—not just as an employee, but as a member of a family that has walked these hallways for generations. Helen's story is one of dedication, community, and the quiet yet powerful impact of financial stewardship in public education. We talk about what brought her to this work, how she’s seen the district evolve over the years, and the special kind of connection that comes with seeing multiple generations of students come through Momence Schools—including some of her own children. She even shares a few fun behind-the-scenes stories about the realities of school finance—including what happens when receipts don’t quite meet the audit requirements. It’s a great conversation with a great person, and I’m excited for you to hear it.

Fifth Grade: The 3D Team

Welcome to The One, Momence Schools' podcast where we dive into the remarkable stories shaping our students, educators, and the community. I’m Craig Williams, publisher of The One magazine, and today’s episode takes us inside the classroom to meet an exceptional trio of fifth-grade teachers at Momence Junior High School. Together, Jonna, Kelly, and Ralph are redefining what teamwork means in education, each specializing in a core subject: Jonna leads Language Arts, Kelly handles Math, and Ralph champions Science and Social Studies. In this episode, we’ll explore how this innovative team approach is not only helping students build essential skills but also fostering a sense of connection and collaboration among educators. You’ll hear their inspiring journeys into teaching, how their diverse paths led them to Momence, and why they’ve embraced this unique teaching model. We’ll unpack their day-to-day strategies, from cross-curricular lesson plans to fostering independence and confidence in their fifth graders. More than just a discussion about teaching methods, this episode highlights the human side of education—what it takes to adapt, collaborate, and innovate in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or someone curious about the power of teamwork in shaping young minds, this episode offers insights that will leave you inspired. So let’s jump in and meet Jonna, Kelly, and Ralph—the fifth-grade teaching team making waves at Momence Junior High School.

Madison Meyer - Ag, FFA, and the Worlds Beyond

I’m excited to introduce you to Madison Meyer, the Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor here at Momence Schools. Madison’s passion for agriculture education goes beyond the farm. She’s committed to fostering leadership, inclusion, and opportunity for every student, whether they come from an agricultural background or not. In today’s conversation, we’ll dive into the incredible work she’s doing with her students, the innovative programs she’s brought to life, and how FFA helps shape confident, well-rounded young people ready to take on the world.