Public School Podcast

Substitute Supermom

This week on Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Rapid City substitute teacher and mom of three, Caitlin Scully, to talk about the reality of stepping into classrooms across the district. From comforting nervous students and navigating high school classrooms to surviving without lesson plans and learning the Promethean board, Caitlin shares the joys, challenges and hilarious moments that come with substitute teaching. The conversation also dives into why substitute teachers matter so much, how flexible the job can be for parents, and why community involvement in schools makes a lasting difference. Along the way, the group swaps stories about favorite teachers, dodgeball injuries, cafeteria honey buns, and the legendary singing janitor from Wilson Elementary. It’s a heartfelt and funny episode about public education, showing up for kids, and the people who quietly keep schools running every day. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

More Than Theater

After more than two decades leading Central High School’s theater program, Justin Speck sits down with Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer to reflect on a career that helped shape generations of students in Rapid City. From sold out productions and award winning student performances to hilarious backstage mishaps and emotional moments that changed lives, Justin shares the stories behind one of the most respected theater programs in the region. The conversation explores the importance of fine arts in public education, the lasting impact teachers can have on students, and why theater remains one of the most human experiences we can share. It is funny, heartfelt, inspiring, and a reminder of how one teacher can leave a lasting mark on an entire community. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Honoring the Journey: The Feathering Ceremony

This episode takes a meaningful look at one of the most powerful traditions in Rapid City Area Schools, the senior honoring and feathering ceremony. Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by Kit Veit and Marie Hebert to talk about the deep cultural and spiritual significance behind this event, which honors Native American graduates as they reach a major life milestone. From the meaning of eagle feathers and plumes to the role of family, prayer, and community, this conversation highlights why this ceremony matters not just for students, but for generations. You will also hear about the history behind these traditions, how they were once suppressed, and why preserving them today is so important. If you have never attended the feathering ceremony, this episode will show you why it is one of the most moving and impactful events of the school year.  ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

From Tiny Learners to Big Impact

What does it really take to teach the youngest learners in our schools? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Jennifer Maciejewski, a junior kindergarten teacher at Valley View Elementary and former South Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist. Jennifer shares what a typical day looks like in her classroom, the importance of early childhood education, and how those first school experiences shape a child’s future. The conversation also dives into the heart behind teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with little learners, and the unexpected opportunities that come with being recognized for excellence, including a once in a lifetime ride in a Blue Angels jet. It is a fun, honest look at the people who help build the foundation for lifelong learning. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

A Parent’s View from the Press

What happens when a local journalist is also a parent in the school system? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Chris Hornick of Homeslice Media and the Rapid City Post to talk about the unique perspective of covering schools while raising kids in them. From funny parenting moments to the responsibility of sharing accurate, positive stories, Chris gives an inside look at how local media and public schools work together to inform and strengthen the community. The conversation also highlights the impact of teachers, the importance of local storytelling, and why supporting public education matters for everyone. Plus, a few laughs along the way, including one unforgettable forged signature story. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.