Season 2, Episode 31: Season 2 Finale: Navigating Our Growth & Next Steps with Dr. Mathews

Season 2, Episode 31: Season 2 Finale: Navigating Our Growth & Next Steps with Dr. Mathews

In the season two finale of Raider Reach, District Director of Communication Meagan Hogg sits down with Lumberton ISD Superintendent Dr. Mathews to reflect on a fast-paced and transformative 2025–2026 school year. Dr. Mathews breaks down the notable cultural shift sweeping across the community, highlighting how unified communication and enhanced customer service are building stronger local partnerships. The conversation dives deep into the realities currently facing the district, including an honest look at the long-range facility planning committee's work, demographic reports indicating an aging local population, and the resulting revenue deficits caused by declining student enrollment. Despite these statewide financial balancing acts, Dr. Mathews shares why the future of LISD remains incredibly exciting, from innovative new CTE pathways like the upcoming cosmetology program to a relentless focus on elevating academic rigor. Finally, the duo looks ahead to an inspiring transition for the podcast next fall, which will shift to a student-produced format, serving as a powerful reminder of what it truly means to be on "One Team" and how every member of the Raider family has the daily opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

Season 2, Episode 30: Real World Ready with the CTE Team

In this episode of Raider Reach, Meagan Hogg sits down with part of Lumberton High School’s outstanding CTE team — Lacy Hall, Carrie Trahan, Kristi Bourque, and Lindsey Linney — to talk about the courses and experiences helping prepare Raider students for life beyond high school. From financial literacy and interview skills to collaboration, communication, and real-world technology applications, this conversation highlights how Career & Technical Education equips students with practical skills they’ll use for years to come. Along the way, the team shares funny classroom memories, heartfelt student success stories, and the passion behind helping students grow into confident, capable adults.

Season 2, Episode 29- Breaking Barriers: Supporting Student Success Through Section 504

In this episode of Raider Reach, host Meagan Hogg sits down with Lumberton ISD’s campus Section 504 Coordinators — Kayla Wilson, Ashley Nicholson, and Jennifer Rinando — to break down what Section 504 services really mean for students and families. From medical accommodations to academic support, the conversation highlights how individualized plans help remove barriers and create equal opportunities for student success. Listeners will gain insight into the referral process, common misconceptions, real-life examples of accommodations, and the collaborative effort between schools and families to support every child. Plus, the coordinators share heartfelt stories, practical advice, and encouragement for parents navigating the process for the first time.

Season 2, Episode 28: The Impact of Substitute Teachers with Jana Moore

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Jana Moore, Lumberton ISD’s District Substitute Specialist and HR Assistant, to shine a light on the critical role substitute teachers play in keeping our classrooms running smoothly. Jana shares her journey from hairstylist to central office, and how her passion for people led her to a role that supports both students and staff every day. Listeners will get an inside look at how substitutes are recruited, trained, and supported—and why they are such a vital part of the Raider family. From flexible schedules to meaningful connections on campus, Jana highlights how subbing can open doors to careers in education and beyond. Whether you’re a parent, community member, or someone considering a new opportunity, this episode will inspire you to see the value and impact of stepping in when it matters most.

Season 2, Episode 27: The Intermediate Bridge – Building Confidence through MTSS

In the final installment of our series on district-wide supports, host Meagan Hogg sits down with Kerry Koch and Valerie Gill from the Lumberton Intermediate School (LIS) intervention team. As students transition into grades 3–5, they face a significant academic shift from "learning to read" to "reading to learn," while simultaneously tackling increasingly complex multi-step math problems. Kerry and Valerie share how they use data-driven, individualized strategies—from phonics-based games like "Roll and Read" to multiplication songs—to fill learning gaps and boost student morale. By focusing on both skill and performance deficits in small-group settings, this team ensures that every student develops the independence and "mental stamina" required for success as they prepare for the jump to middle school.