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The Hornet Hive Podcast

Auteur(s): Williamston Community Schools
  • Résumé

  • The Hornet Hive is your one stop location to get up to date on everything that is happening within the Williamston Community Schools.
    2024
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Épisodes
  • Kelly Goudreau: A Teacher's Passion for First Grade and Making Lifelong Impressions
    Jun 6 2024
    In this episode of the Hornet Hive Podcast podcast, host Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Kelly Goudreau, a dedicated 1st grade teacher at Discovery Elementary in Williamston Community Schools. Kelly shares her heartwarming journey as an educator and reflects on the impactful experiences she has had with her students. Her story is a testament to the profound connections teachers can form with their students and the lasting influence they can have on young minds. Finding Her Place in Williamston: Kelly's decision to join Williamston Community Schools was fueled by her desire to create a nurturing and wholesome environment for her own family. Having grown up in a small town, she sought a similar sense of community for her children. When she volunteered at the school, she was deeply impressed by the supportive staff and the positive atmosphere. This experience solidified her belief that Williamston was the perfect place for her to continue her teaching career. The Return to Teaching: After a period of being a stay-at-home mom, Kelly's journey back into the classroom was met with enthusiasm and determination. Starting as a guest teacher, she swiftly rekindled her passion for teaching. Embracing the changes in the education landscape, she eagerly pursued professional development opportunities, highlighting her dedication to providing her students with the best learning experience. Sustaining Passion and Connection: One of the key elements that have sustained Kelly throughout her years in the district is the sense of community and support among the staff. She emphasizes that her motivation is not driven by monetary gains but by her unyielding passion for teaching and the genuine connection she shares with her students. It is evident that the nurturing environment and the camaraderie among the faculty have played a significant role in her continued dedication to Williamston Community Schools. The Charms of First Grade: preference for teaching first graders stems from her reveling in their unique blend of innocence, curiosity, and emerging independence. She cherishes the tender dynamics of this age group, capitalizing on their eagerness to learn and their budding autonomy. Her seamless transition into teaching first grade showcases her adaptability and commitment to providing an enriching educational experience for her young students. Impactful Moments: Kelly fondly recalls heartwarming instances where former students recognize and approach her in public settings, expressing their fondness and gratitude for the bonds they forged. These moments affirm the enduring influence and meaningful connections teachers can cultivate with their students. It is a poignant reminder of the profound impact teachers have on the lives of their students, extending far beyond the classroom and into their future endeavors. The Educator's Legacy: As Dr. Lewis and Kelly reflect on the pivotal role teachers play in shaping the lives of young individuals, it becomes evident that the journey of an educator is marked by the countless lives they touch. Kelly's commitment to nurturing and guiding her students highlights the profound influence educators can have in instilling a love for learning and empowering the next generation to achieve their fullest potential. Kelly's narrative embodies the profound impact that teachers can have on their students. Her unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment underscores the transformative power of educators. As we celebrate the educators who work tirelessly to inspire, encourage, and mold young minds, let us recognize and appreciate the enduring influence they have on shaping the future of our communities. In this insightful conversation with Kelly Goudreau, we have gained valuable insights into the passion and dedication of educators within the Williamston Community Schools. As we commend the exemplary contributions of teachers like Kelly, we are reminded of the essential role they play in shaping the fabric of our society through their unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:19]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, doctor Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. You know, every week, I love being able to talk with you to bring forward great things that are happening in our schools because there are so many amazing things that are happening within the Williamston Community Schools. And it's important that you know about it, whether your kids are experiencing it right now or not. You just should feel really proud of the great things that are happening, the great people we have in our schools, the great experiences that our kids are able to get both inside and outside the classroom. And that's why I love doing this. That's why I love talking to you every week because I think there ...
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    12 min
  • Celebrating Success: Williamston Community Schools Year-In-Review and Upcoming Bond Proposal
    May 29 2024
    As we near the end of an incredibly productive school year, Dr. Christopher Lewis and Dr. Adam Spina took a moment to reflect on the accomplishments of Williamston Community Schools and to discuss future opportunities that will further enhance our district. Here’s a comprehensive wrap-up of the discussion from Dr. Lewis's recent podcast episode on the Hornet Hive. Overview: A Year of Success 2023–2024 has been a year filled with remarkable achievements for Williamston Community Schools. From academic awards to comprehensive plans for future development, the community has continued to foster an environment of excellence. Dr. Spina emphasized how the consistent top rankings for both high school and middle school, according to data from the Michigan Department of Education, speak volumes about the dedication and hard work from students, parents, and faculty. “We’re proud to be the top-rated district in our county, and this is something everyone in our community should take pride in,” said Dr. Spina. Upcoming Bond Proposal Continuous Improvement One of the critical topics discussed was the upcoming bond on the ballot in August. The bond aims to address ongoing facilities and equipment issues that have been identified over two years of detailed analysis. “We’ve conducted a comprehensive facilities assessment and gathered community feedback through surveys, and the results were overwhelmingly supportive,” shared Dr. Spina. The bond, a $38.5 million investment, will cover numerous projects without altering current tax rates. These include the redesigning of traffic patterns for better safety, construction of modern classrooms and new gyms, and installation of outdoor restrooms. It will also upgrade HVAC systems and rebuild the only public tennis courts in Williamston. “We understand that safety is paramount. The traffic redesign alone will mitigate long-standing safety concerns. We’re also planning significant improvements in our educational facilities to enrich the learning environment for our students,” Dr. Spina explained. Celebrating the Class of 2024 As the school year concludes, Williamston Community Schools will bid farewell to the Class of 2024. With 144 seniors graduating, this class has continually excelled, maintaining top academic ratings every year at the high school. “Their determination and the support of their teachers and parents have been instrumental to their success. We’re excited to see the future accomplishments of this incredible group,” Dr. Spina noted. Honoring Our Retirees The end of the school year is also a time to acknowledge the dedication and contributions of our retirees. This year, several valued staff members will be moving on, including Julie Monette, Marion Shear, Robin Monette, Phil Berlientes, Joe Rasmus, and Gail Cobb. “The wisdom and commitment of our retirees have left an indelible mark on the district. We wish them the very best in their future endeavors,” stated Dr. Spina. Highlights and Accolades The district has also celebrated noteworthy awards and recognitions: Williamston Middle School ranked as the top middle school in Ingham County according to state data.Recognition from the College Board Awards, including the Advanced Placement Female Diversity Award for Computer Science and being named to the Advanced Placement Honor Roll.Achieving rewards school status across all participating schools.Academic All-State recognition for 10 sports teams. Faculty members also earned significant awards, such as Cassandra Eberhard’s regional Teacher of the Year recognition, Becky Dierling being a finalist for a national teaching award, Steve Kersten’s induction into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and Lindsay Bolas recognized as Educator of the Year by the Greater Lansing United Nations Association. “It’s essential to acknowledge these successes don’t happen in isolation. They are a result of a collaborative and supportive community,” said Dr. Spina. Moving Forward: Stay Connected As Dr. Lewis concluded the conversation, he reminded listeners of the importance of staying informed and engaged with the district’s future plans. He encouraged everyone to visit the Williamston Community Schools website to find more information on the bond and other district initiatives. “Whether you have children in the schools or are simply a proud member of this community, your involvement matters. Stay engaged, ask questions, and be an active participant as we continue to strive for excellence,” Dr. Lewis urged. In closing, as we celebrate the end of an academic year filled with accomplishments, we also look forward to the significant opportunities on the horizon that promise to make Williamston Community Schools an even better place for our students. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Doctor. Christopher Lewis. One of the members of the Williamston...
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    20 min
  • Jordan Williams: Making a Difference in Physical Education at Williamston's Elementary Schools
    May 16 2024
    In the latest episode of the Hornet Hive Podcast host Dr. Christopher Lewis sat down with Jordan Williams, a dedicated physical education teacher at Discovery Elementary and Explorer Elementary in the Williamston Community Schools. The conversation delved into Jordan's experiences, challenges, and the inspiring impact he has had within the school community. The Pandemic Pivot: Navigating Physical Education during COVID-19 Teaching physical education during a pandemic was no easy feat, as Jordan shared. He highlighted the initial challenges of connecting with students while adhering to safety protocols that included masks and social distancing. Despite these hurdles, Jordan emphasized the support he received from both the students and the school community. As a new addition to the district during the COVID-19 era, Jordan expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and the collaborative efforts to ensure the continuation of physical education in a safe and engaging manner. The Heart of the Community: Fostering Student and Family Engagement One of the aspects that stood out in Jordan's discussion was the deep sense of community he experienced in Williamston. From the enthusiastic participation in events such as the Halloween parade to the overwhelming support for initiatives like the Kids Heart Challenge, it was evident that the school and the community are deeply intertwined. Jordan's anecdotes painted a picture of a vibrant community that not only embraces the school but actively participates in initiatives aimed at promoting student health and wellness. The strong bond between the school, families, and the broader community reflects a shared commitment to nurturing the holistic development of each child. Empowering Through Physical Education: The Impactful Role of a Teacher As the conversation unfolded, Jordan revealed the personal connection he has with his role as a physical education teacher. His journey from a student passionate about sports and physical activity to a teacher dedicated to inspiring the same enthusiasm in his students showcased the profound impact a teacher can have. He shared how the diverse range of activities offered in class, from traditional sports to lesser-known activities like pickleball and tennis, aims to ignite a lifelong love for physical fitness and well-being. By emphasizing the broader aspects of health, including nutrition and making healthy choices, Jordan embodies the modern approach of physical education, aligning with the evolving needs of today's children and providing them with the tools for holistic well-being. Mentoring and Learning Together: Building a Supportive Network in Education Jordan's recollection of his experiences, particularly the mentorship he received from fellow educators, shed light on the importance of a supportive network in the field of education. His acknowledgment of learning from his colleague, Mr. Plaxton, showcased the collaborative environment within the school. It highlighted the significance of continuous learning and professional development, even for experienced educators. The narrative underscored the immense impact of teamwork and collaboration in fostering an environment where not only the students but also the educators can thrive and continue to grow. Jordan Williams' insights and experiences as a physical education teacher at Williamston Community Schools exemplify the critical role of educators in shaping the overall well-being of students. His dedication to promoting physical fitness, healthy habits, and community engagement underscores the profound impact of a supportive school environment. Through Jordan's words, we are reminded of the instrumental role of physical education in grooming the next generation and inspiring them to lead fulfilling, healthy lives. In this engaging conversation, Jordan's passion for his work shone through, serving as a testament to the profound influence of educators who go beyond teaching and truly shape the lives of their students. As we reflect on this insightful discussion, we are inspired by the commitment and care that Jordan and his colleagues bring to their roles, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future for the students in their care. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:04]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, doctor Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. This week, as always, I love being able to share with you Some of the amazing things that are happening within our schools and taking some time to be able to not only tell you about programs and activities and things that are happening, but beyond that, letting you get to know some of the amazing staff that are within our schools, that are working with our kids on a daily basis because you may or may not know them, and that's okay. But it's important for you to get to know who they are so that you...
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    14 min

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