Let’s Talk, HCS

Inclement Weather and School Cancellation - Let's Talk HCS Episode 11

How does a school district really decide when to close schools for bad weather? It's not one person, one forecast, or one quick call. In this episode of Let's Talk HCS, we're recording from the Emergency Operations Center to pull back the curtain on how weather decisions are made. District leaders, transportation staff, a local meteorologist, and emergency management personnel all come together to explain what happens behind the scenes when snow, ice, wind, or severe storms threaten our area. You'll hear: * Why Chattanooga's geography makes weather so hard to predict * What role do bus drivers play in decisions * Why closing just one part of the county isn't as simple as it sounds.

Real Talk with David Carroll - Let's Talk HCS Episode 10

In this episode of Let’s Talk HCS, Real Talk with David Carroll, Superintendent Dr. Justin Robertson and David take a year-end look at what’s working in Hamilton County Schools and what still needs attention. Dr. Robertson shares updates on school safety, building upgrades like controlled entrances, and key-fob access. He also highlights the value of relationships and the importance of students feeling connected to trusted adults who will notice when something feels off. The conversation shifts to student support, including a conversation about nurses, progress in counseling services, and a stronger career focused support for students entering the workforce. David and Dr. Robertson also review the district’s cell phone policy, Finally, Dr. Robertson speaks candidly about working with county leaders on funding and why he’s vocal about widening recruitment and ensuring students see mentors who reflect their experiences.

Celebrating Student Successes and Schools This Thanksgiving - Let's Talk HCS Episode 9

In this Thanksgiving episode of Let’s Talk HCS, our superintendent sits down with Deputy Superintendent Stewart and community superintendents Dr. Shane Harwood, Dr. Marques Stewart, Dr. Elaine Harper, and Dr. Lee Ziegler to pause, reflect, and share what they’re most thankful for so far this school year. Parents will hear about: * Why this has been one of the smoothest school openings in years * Big wins in student learning, including more level 5 schools * How a strong leadership pipeline is changing what happens in classrooms * E-sports, student-run coffee shops, and other ways schools are helping kids feel like they belong * Powerful student stories from mentoring to a graduate with disabilities now speaking at the state Capitol You’ll also hear how community partners are showing up in big ways, from packed fall festivals to college fairs and support for new school buildings. Before you pass the turkey and pie, tune in and hear why there is so much for Hamilton County families to be thankful for this year and what’s coming next for our students.

Let's Talk HCS - School Nutrition Episode 8

This week on Let’s Talk HCS, we cook up a great conversation with the Director of School Nutrition and a registered dietitian. They explain how HCS serves 40,000 meals a day across 70+ schools. They also share how students can test and shape school menus. We also visit Orchard Knob Middle, where science teacher Sarah Roberson and her students launch a garden club to grow produce for school meals.

Real Talk with David Carroll - Let's Talk HCS Episode 7

In this episode of Let’s Talk HCS: Real Talk, David Carroll sits down with Dr. Justin Robertson to pull back the curtain on what a superintendent really does—and how the job is judged. Carroll surprises Dr. Robertson with on-the-spot questions about his annual evaluation, the ins and outs of school funding, teacher hiring safeguards, shifting enrollment, and why School Choice programs can change lives. Later, Dr. Robertson explains why he completes a detailed self-assessment and how the board uses it. He shares a candid grade on his work with the County Commission and Mayor Wamp. They also tackle teacher background checks—what state licensure holds catch, what reference calls reveal, and where gray areas still exist. Then they explore enrollment trends and traditional schooling.