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What’s it really like to be an elementary school teacher in Idaho? In this episode, I chat with Teri Smith, a dedicated educator from the Middleton School District, about the joy, heart, challenges, and everyday realities of teaching.

We talk about what it feels like walking into the classroom on the first day of school versus the last, how much goes into prepping for class, what caring for our students truly looks like—and yes, even the need to plan ahead just to use the bathroom!

Teri also shares what it’s like teaching in an overcrowded building, what overcapacity means for Idaho kids, and why she’s still all in on the work she loves. Plus, we explore the push for a new elementary school to meet the growing needs of the community.

🎧 Join us for stories, laughter, and real talk from inside the classroom.
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alexis@ourkidsourschools.com

Find great resources and info on school communities:
https://ourkidsourschools.com/

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Join Alexis as she sits down with Jeff Simmons, Superintendent of the Idaho Digital Learning Alliance (IDLA), to explore the incredible opportunities this online school provides to students across Idaho. From elementary to high school, IDLA offers courses for students at every level, including summertime classes designed to combat the "summer slide." Not sure what the summer slide is? Tune in to find out! They also discuss how IDLA enables students to take dual credit courses, earn CTE certifications, and utilize Advanced Opportunities funding to cover all costs.

Plus, don't miss the HUGE announcement that WILL impact families statewide. This episode is packed with valuable insights for every parent in Idaho—be sure to listen and share! Have questions? Reach out to Alexis directly!

About IDLA:

Idaho Digital Learning Alliance was created by the Idaho State Legislature (Title 33, Chapter 55 Idaho Code, 2002) and Idaho educators, developed for Idaho students, and is recognized as a leader across the nation in online virtual education. Idaho Digital Learning Alliance was created to provide access, equity, and flexibility for students in the state of Idaho according to its statutory authority, and Idaho Digital Learning Alliance enables the state to meet its constitutional requirement to provide a uniform and thorough educational system.

Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/

Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.
alexis@ourkidsourschools.com

Find great resources and info on school communities:
https://ourkidsourschools.com/

Send us a text

BONUS EPISODE!

We welcome Jake Dempsey, a dedicated school board trustee for the Middleton School District. Jake joins us to discuss Middleton's efforts to pass a critical school bond in the upcoming May election — a feat that requires a supermajority of 66.67% voter approval, a notably high threshold to meet in Idaho. This won't be Middleton’s first attempt, but this time the school board approached the proposal differently, revising it based on community feedback to ensure their patrons' voices were heard. Jake shares insights into the collaborative process behind proposing a school bond and highlights key changes made to improve its chances.

Additionally, we explore the dos and don'ts of being an effective school board member, especially in a role that demands significant volunteer time and a passion for the school community. Whether you're interested in the complexities of school bonds or want to better understand the responsibilities of a school board trustee, this episode offers an engaging look into leadership, community interaction, and the perseverance needed to support local education. Take a listen to learn more about Middleton's school bond initiative and the valuable lessons from Jake’s experience!

Find Alexis on Instagram and JOIN in the conversation: https://www.instagram.com/the_idaho_lady/

Send Alexis an email with guest requests, ideas, or potential collaboration.
alexis@ourkidsourschools.com

Find great resources and info on school communities:
https://ourkidsourschools.com/