Alaska EdVenture: Lessons from the K-12 Frontier with Dr. Meinert

051: For The Game—For The Students: Leadership, Mentorship, and Impact

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with retiring Coach David DeVaughn, Alaska’s winningest high school football coach, and longtime Activities Coordinator Wayne Sawchuk to reflect on careers dedicated to students, leadership, and community. Together, they discuss the moments, relationships, and lessons that defined decades of service and helped shape the lives of countless students both on and off the field. Listeners will hear stories and reflections on the lasting impact of school activities and the important role they play in helping students build confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and meaningful connections. The conversation also looks ahead to the future of student activities across the district and explores why involvement in athletics, clubs, and school programs continues to be such an important part of the student experience. Join us for an inspiring discussion on legacy, mentorship, and the lessons that extend far beyond the game.

050: The Power of School Culture: North Pole Middle

In this episode, we sit down with the leadership team from North Pole Middle School to discuss the importance of student experience, positive school culture, and the relationships that help students succeed. Thank you to our guests for joining the conversation: * Joseph Self, Principal * Jacob Glenn, Assistant Principal * Chip Abolafia, Assistant Principal The conversation explores how schools create environments where students feel safe, connected, supported, and motivated to learn each day. Listeners will hear about the intentional work behind building strong relationships between students, staff, and families, along with examples of student success both inside and outside the classroom at the district’s largest middle school. The episode also highlights the role of staff collaboration, consistency, and leadership in creating a positive and supportive learning environment.

049: Stronger Together: Supporting Military-Connected Students and Families

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert is joined by Colonel John Campbell, U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Fort Wainwright; Colonel Timothy Foster, 354th Mission Support Group Commander, Eielson Air Force Base; and Janet Farris, Fort Wainwright School Liaison Officer, to highlight the experiences and needs of military-connected students and families in our schools. The conversation begins by exploring the unique transitions military students face when moving between communities, and how schools can help them feel welcomed, supported, and connected. The discussion also highlights the strong partnership between the district and local military leadership, including the role of the colonels as military advisors to the school board, in strengthening programs, resources, and communication that support student success. In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, guests reflect on the strengths military-connected students bring to schools and the importance of honoring their experiences. With more than 25% of students in the district identified as military-connected, the conversation underscores the significant role military families play in our school community and the shared responsibility to support them well.

048: Pathways to Independence: Inside Project SEARCH

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert sits down with Lisa Laqua, Project SEARCH Instructor, and Jessie Beyer, Talent Development Specialist at Foundation Health Partners, to discuss how this unique program is helping students with disabilities transition from school to the workplace. Together, they share how the program operates, combining real-world job experience with training in employability and independent living skills. Listeners will hear firsthand about the impact of hands-on learning in a professional setting, the support systems that help students succeed, and the role the local hospital plays in mentoring and developing interns. Project SEARCH has a 100% success rate in helping participants find employment after completing the program! This episode offers a look at how strong partnerships and purposeful training create real opportunities for students, building confidence, developing skills, and supporting successful transitions into adult life.

047: Investing in Our Schools: Understanding the FY27 Budget and Reinvestment

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Meinert is joined by Board President Bobby Burgess and Board Clerk/Board Budget Committee Chair Morgan Dulian to walk through the district’s FY27 Recommended Budget and what it means for students, staff, and families. The conversation highlights key updates, including a shift toward reinvestment after several years of reductions, and how those decisions are being made with both immediate needs and long-term stability in mind. They discuss how resources are being directed into classrooms, supporting priorities such as class size, student programs, and supply budgets, while also addressing ongoing challenges, including rising costs and state funding uncertainty. The episode offers a look behind budget decisions and what the community can expect moving forward.