Affton Unplugged

41. Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week

Welcome to Affton Unplugged, the podcast that takes you into the heart of the Affton School District by highlighting the individuals and narratives that form this remarkable learning community. For our latest episode, we turn our attention to National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, devoting the entirety of this special edition to appreciating and recognizing the excellent work of our teachers.
For the most comprehensive insight, we hear directly from our students. From the youngsters at Mesnier Primary School to the mature voices at Affton High School, all students were eager to share their views on their teachers. Responses beautifully encapsulate the enthusiasm, affection, and respect teachers inspire daily.
Our younger students expressed their love and appreciation for their teachers widely. Words like 'kind,' 'fun,' 'helpful,' and 'nice' were frequently used to describe teachers who made learning enjoyable and engaging for them.
Moving up to Gotsch Intermediate School, students fondly spoke about the flexibility and generosity offered to them by their teachers. They mentioned the varied teaching strategies and learning activities, teachers' willingness to answer questions and provide ample time for task completion, the extra recess, and the unforgettable field trips!
At Rogers Middle School, the appreciation for teachers jumped up a notch, with students expressing gratitude for teachers treating all students equally, creating a welcoming learning environment, offering individualized attention, and providing substantial educational support.
Finally, at Affton High School, the students portrayed their teachers as hardworking, selfless, approachable, passionate, and dedicated educators. They particularly appreciated their teachers for incorporating students' interests in the learning process, maintain high teaching standards and provide early morning ice cream when necessary!
In summary, the episode offered a momentous celebration and acknowledgment of the teachers' significant contributions to the Affton School District. Don't miss out on hearing these heartfelt testimonials that paint a vivid picture of the positive impact made by our educators!

40. Building The Future: Gotsch Intermediate Student Leaders

Join our newest episode of 'Affton Unplugged' with Superintendent Travis Bracht, set in the vibrant educational environment of Gotsch Intermediate School. Discover how the Affton School District is bridging the gap between staff and students, brought into the limelight through inspiring hidden tales from the heart of their scholastic ecosystem. Explore the thoughtful journey and diverse experiences of cultivating young leaders via the district's thriving Student Leadership Program.
SEL Interventionist, Mrs. Greta Pitcher, and Assistant Principal, Dr. Sarah Davidovits, provide keen insight into their roles and experiences in shaping these young leaders. Join us as we delve into the essence of the Student Leadership Program, its progression, and their shared vision for its future.
Our spirited student leaders, each with their unique passion and ambitions, provide insights into their experiences. They candidly share the application process, outline their leadership roles, and discuss the program's beneficial impact on their development - from voice cultivation to problem-solving, and fostering a thriving school environment.
Finally, we conclude the episode with a nuanced dialogue on the program's approach towards nurturing student voices, community partnership, and its role in promoting the school's improvement goals and the integration of cultural learning into their curriculum. Hear our young leaders discuss their unique learning experiences, their commitment, and how they are striving towards positive changes in their school.
In an era where student voices are often overlooked, the Affton School District has been relentless in championing student leadership and advocacy. Tune in to this not just as a podcast episode, but a testament to the innate potential within every young mind, inspiring educators, parents, and students alike.

39. Undefeated: RMS Boys Basketball

Welcome to the latest episode of Affton Unplugged, where we delve into the heart of Affton School District by spotlighting its individuals and their accomplishments. In this episode, we focus on the acclaimed Rogers Middle School Basketball Team, and their extraordinary undefeated season. Our host, Superintendent Travis Bracht, invites you to enjoy the stories of our young champions and their dedicated coach, which detail their victorious journey and their thoughts on this triumphant achievement.
Meet our guests - the esteemed Rogers Middle School Basketball Team, composed of three standout players and their devoted coach. Our first conversation is with the beloved coach, Mr. DiDonato, a seventh-grade social studies teacher with a long history with the Afton School District. He shares his unique path which led him to Rogers Middle School, and a glimpse into his personal life.
Following the coach are key players Dresden, Drake, and Breylon - eighth-graders with diverse interests extending beyond the basketball court. Our discussion encompasses their winning season, detailing their successes, tryouts, off-court antics, and their relationships within the team. The coach attributes their undefeated victories to the exceptional bond within the team, providing a far-reaching glimpse into their unity and love for the game.
The episode concludes with memorable highlights of the season, and expressions of gratitude from Coach DiDonato and the team members who underscore the essence of teamwork in their unbeaten season. Tune in to celebrate the undefeated Rogers Middle School basketball champions. Listen to their victorious story filled with teamwork, fortitude, and unforgettable memories—all while garnering valuable life lessons applicable beyond the game of basketball.

38. The Next Chapter: Retirement

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht sits down with two retiring educators from Mesnier Primary School in the Affton School District - Cheryl Ladd and Janet Peistrup. Each of them has worked extensively in shaping the growth and learning of numerous students throughout their teaching careers.
In the first part, Cheryl takes us through her journey from an Affton graduate to becoming a beloved kindergarten teacher who took a break to focus on her family before returning to her Alma mater to dedicate another 19 years. Janet, a reading and language teacher who transformed into a reading specialist, discusses how her three-decade-long career has been instrumental in helping students acquire foundational reading skills.
Sharing a sense of nostalgia, both the retiring educators illuminate their profound love for education, the undying passion which shaped their careers, and the positive influence they’ve had on students' lives. They offer valuable career advice for fellow educators and highlight how embracing change, balancing work with personal well-being, and maintaining an open mind can lead to better learning outcomes.
In the later part of the episode, Cheryl and Janet share some heartwarming classroom stories, shedding light on the immense impact educators have on their students. As they head towards retirement, our guests express their gratitude towards the Affton School District for fostering a supportive environment that helped them grow both personally and professionally.
Join us in this episode of Affton Unplugged as we celebrate the achievements of Cheryl and Janet, two exemplary educators whose contribution to the domain of education is truly inspiring!

37. Behind the Curtain: AHS Spring Musical

In this thought-provoking episode of Affton Unplugged, host Travis Bracht takes an insider's tour of the preparations for Affton High School's highly-anticipated spring musical, Into the Woods. This behind-the-scenes look peels back the curtain, revealing the passion, hard work, and commitment Affton's young thespians put into bringing their characters to life.
Sylas Hampton and Mary Cooper, cast members and high school students themselves, willingly share their experiences. They delve into their dual lives – managing their academic responsibilities while devoting countless hours to rehearsals. Sylas divulges his recent success at the FCCLA competition, while Mary expresses her deep-rooted love for the arts.
Furthermore, they take us through the twisted and thrilling storyline of Into The Woods. The viewers get to understand the complexity of their characters, the Baker and his wife, and how these vibrant roles intertwine with the other Grimm's Brothers tales within the musical.
Sylas and Mary further discuss their journey of managing the challenging music score while synchronizing dialogues with specific actions. Amidst these challenges, their devotion to theatre and their roles is burning brighter than ever - illuminating their words with the fervor that can only come from a love of theatre.
Moving beyond the stage's glare, the duo delve into their plans after high school. From dreams to fears, they discuss their hopes of theatre, becoming more than just a hobby. Amidst the pressure, they are immensely grateful for their school's supportive team that has continually propelled their theatrical productions to higher levels.
In this captivating episode of Affton Unplugged, join us as we explore the unseen magic behind a high school musical. From memories formed to lessons learned, this episode brings to light the art, dedication, and allure of the theatre.

36. Youth Leadership St. Louis

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast, brought to you by the Affton School District. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the transformative Youth Leadership Program at Affton High School. Join us alongside Mr. Lewis, the program sponsor, and several participating students who share their insights and experiences.
Delve into the workings of this extraordinary program backed by Focus STL, with the intention of molding several junior students, from across various schools in the city, into promising leaders. Witness how this initiative creates unique opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community building for these young leaders.
Hear first-hand accounts by students about their experiences in decision-making simulations, community-based projects, and other resourceful exercises. Understand how these unique learning opportunities are imparting leadership skills, forming deep connections, and offering invaluable insights to these individuals. Explore how initiatives such as these help them comprehend their local community's dynamics better, thereby shaping their journey into becoming well-rounded leaders.
Reflect on the profound personal growth these young leaders have experienced. From recognizing their individual leadership strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging diverse perspectives, to coping with unexpected circumstances, every experience contributes significantly to their overall development. Moreover, Mr. Lewis, an experienced educator, sheds light on the remarkable growth he has witnessed in these young individuals.
The episode is not just limited to serious discussions, but also reminisces about the memorable instances and camaraderie synonymous with the leadership program. Finally, the episode concludes with an invitation for rising juniors, eager to embark upon this enriching journey of leadership, community involvement, and personal growth.
Tune in to discover more about the Affton High School Youth Leadership Program and explore the multifarious aspects of youth leadership development.

35. Lifelong Learning: A Conversation With Dr. Brian Esselman

Join Affton Unplugged in an interesting episode where Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews Dr. Brian Esselman, an accomplished high school teacher in the Affton School District. Unfold the inspiring journey of Dr. Esselman as he depicts his passion for teaching, recount his experiences in the district, and sheds light on his academic achievements. Listen as he explains how attaining a National Board Certification amplified his teaching skills and the process involved in acquiring it.
Get to learn about Dr. Esselman's Educational Leadership doctoral program centered on social justice, equity, and heritage leadership. He shares his in-depth insights into how this program synergizes with his national board certification pursuits, contributing positively to his professional journey.
Further, Dr. Esselman takes us on a insightful trip to Montgomery, Alabama, that profoundly influenced and sparked meaningful dialogues among professional communities. This episode also touches upon the unusual challenges and learning opportunities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
So, tune in to this engrossing episode of Affton Unplugged that underscores the worth of higher education in enhancing educators and brings you closer to the passionate professionals devoted to education.

34. Mentoring Matters

Welcome to an episode of Affton Unplugged dedicated to presenting the transformative work of the Mentoring Matters Club at Affton High School. Our guests, Mary Beth Merlo and Gina Stewart, tell their inspirational stories of setting up the initiative, aiming to promote social skills, foster friendships, and create an inclusive atmosphere for all students.
Immerse yourself in a tale of dedication, growth, and triumph as we explore the mentoring program's inception in 2013 and its evolution into approximately 40 students participating on an annual basis. Discover the club's dynamic activities, including Special Olympics participation, pizza parties, field trips, and more, all designed to strengthen peer relationships and enhance the high school experience.
Listen to heartwarming testimonies of students benefiting from conventional games and special outings they may not have experienced otherwise. The Mentoring Matters Club not only adds an enriching dimension to their school lives but also opens doors to pursue careers in education and special education.
Benefit from a wealth of feedback from parents, mentors, students, and staff, underscoring the invaluable contribution the club makes to students' overall happiness and social development. Hear how this has led to the program gaining support and receiving recommendations at Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings.
Join us as we express our heartfelt gratitude for the support provided by the Affton Education Foundation, which has been instrumental in keeping this outstanding initiative thriving. Come, be a part of our journey as we strive to make a difference in the lives of the students at Affton High School.

33. Affton Early Childhood

Welcome to another episode of Affton Unplugged, our enlightening podcast by the Afton School District. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the lives and experiences shaping our district's atmosphere.
Join us as Superintendent Travis Bracht gives a comprehensive tour of the Affton Early Childhood Center, offering a deep dive into the pivotal education hub for our three and four-year-olds and pre-kindergarten students. The Center provides full-day and half-day programs as well as before-care and after-care and summer programs.
We have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Amber Sinamon, the Early Learning Director, Erica Grissom, the Lead Teacher, and Stephanie Kanzler, a Classroom Leader. These individuals, who play significant roles in the Early Childhood Center, provide invaluable insights into the center's daily operations, the program structure, and the remarkable impact it has on the children's life and growth.
Our discussion uncovers how the center engages children in Project Lead the Way, Motor Lab, and an innovative curriculum that involves coding and much more. From instilling scientific virtues to nurturing life skills through play, the Early Childhood Center's approach transcends traditional educational paradigms.
Get to know more about the enrollment procedures and get a glimpse of the collaborative initiatives, summer programs, and before and after school care offerings. Dive into the captivating world of early childhood education and meet the extraordinary people shaping the future of young minds.
In this episode, our guests delve into their journey of building rich and meaningful relationships with the students, tapping into their individual interests and encouraging parent participation in their child's learning process. Learn about how lessons like "All About Me" enable teachers to better understand their students and how focusing on children's interests can foster growth and development.
Discover how the educators at the Affton School District create a vibrant learning community by integrating parents into their child's educational journey through unique communication methods. Enjoy heartwarming anecdotes from our guests' interactions with children and parents.
Get ready for more educational discussions and inspiring stories from our community of educators in future episodes of Affton Unplugged. The educators at the Affton School District firmly believe in the transformative power of education and aim to provide the best experiences for each child. Stay tuned, and join the conversation.

32. Empathy In Action

Join us this week on Affton Unplugged, a family-oriented podcast that celebrates the remarkable stories and individuals of the Affton School District. This special episode offers you an inside look into the world of school social workers and social emotional learning (SEL) interventionists, spotlighting their crucial roles and contributions.
This week's guests, Beckie Rainbolt and Greta Pitcher, are dedicated professionals advancing the crucial work of SEL at our schools. Felicitously timed to coincide with the upcoming SEL Day and National Social Worker Day, they offer a comprehensive account of their multifarious duties and how their work influences students' educational, emotional, and academic growth.
We explore the diverse social work terrain, the interventionist's role within it, and the direct impact they make on their students' lives. Get an understanding of how they prepare and relentlessly adapt to better connect with students and address their needs, providing them with important life skills and an optimal learning environment.
We shift our focus to the power and significance of SEL in promoting the comprehensive development of students. From collaborative problem-solving to building positive relationships, our educators share their innovative strategies for fostering an enriching learning environment, underlining that SEL is not just an add-on but a core part of education.
The conversation also illuminates the latest advancements and practices in SEL, including the newly updated Second Step curriculum. Also, don't miss the inspiring stories of community engagement and togetherness that have contributed significantly to the Affton community.
In this enlightening episode, dive into the fascinating world of Social Emotional Learning and grasp the instrumental role of these community maestros in shaping the minds and lives of tomorrow. Tune into the 'Affton Unplugged Podcast' now to learn more!