Episodes

A simple question about Harry Potter opened the door to an energetic conversation about books, reading traditions, and Hogwarts houses. Whether you're a dedicated Potterhead or just curious what all the fuss is about, this Off the Record episode offers a fun glimpse into the enthusiasm of these students.

As a new NHL season gets underway and excitement around the Utah Mammoth continues to grow, we sit down with Griffin, now an eight-grade student at Grantsville Junior High School who is making a name for himself on the ice. In this episode, Griffin shares how he first discovered hockey, what the sport has taught him about leadership and resilience, and how he balances practices, travel, academics, and family life. Joined by his father, Chisolm, and Grantsville Junior High Principal Amy Jaskowic...

What do UFC fighters, Parkinson's therapy programs, and a Grantsville High School social studies teacher have in common? In this episode, Dr. Mark Ernst talks with Brad Evans about Jukestir, an invention that challenges the brain as much as the body. What started as a better training tool for athletes has found unexpected applications in hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and beyond. Along the way, Brad shares how entrepreneurship, resilience, and creative thinking shape both his invention and ...

This episode explores the upcoming UHSAA realignment process and some of the changes being used for high school athletics across Utah. Dr. Mark Ernst is joined by TCSD Activities Director Catham Beer and Tooele High Athletic Director Cody Valdez to discuss how classifications and regions will be determined, the official introduction of competitive balance and socioeconomic factors, potential impacts on travel and time away from school, and what athletes, parents, coaches, and communities should ...

Dr Ernst sits down with Bob Curfew this week to discuss changes and updates in school and student safety. From wearable panic allerts to school guardians, tune in to learn about some of the things going on at the state and school level to help keep our students and employees safe.

We kick off another season of Elevated Insights by talking with Lisa Mecham, a teacher at Grantsville High School, and students Courtney and Chloe about the American Exchange Project. Similar to a foreign exchange program, this unique opportunity allows students from across the country to experience different communities and cultures right here in the United States. We’ll hear about their experiences visiting other parts of the country, as well as from students who came to Tooele County. From p...

In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with three outstanding district leaders recognized at the Annual Recognition Banquet. Lisa Erickson, Dorothy Norrington, and Megan England represent the growing group of certified non-teachers whose work often happens behind the scenes but makes a lasting impact on students, teachers, and schools. They share their journeys from the classroom into specialized roles, discuss how their work supports instruction and studen...

What happens when students have a place where they feel supported, seen, and ready to focus on learning? In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst records from Deseret Peak High School to spotlight the Teen Center and the people behind some of the district’s most meaningful student support services. Joined by Jennifer Firth, the district’s McKinney‑Vento Liaison; Kristine Naylor, Director of At‑Risk Students and Teen Centers; and Denise Martin, Teen Center aide at DPHS...

In this episode of Elevated Insights, we step onto the mat with members of the Grantsville High School girls wrestling team, one of the Utah's fastest‑growing sports with one of the most successful programs. Joined by Superintendent Ernst and student cohost Rebekah Smith, the athletes share what motivates them, how the sport has shaped their confidence and resilience, and what it’s like to be part of a program that has earned multiple state titles and top finishes in its early years. With storie...

In this episode of Elevated Insights, we take listeners inside the GEM program, where students explore creative thinking, problem‑solving, and hands‑on academic challenges. Joined by gifted‑and‑talented teacher Stacie Blake and several GEM students, Superintendent Ernst talks with them about what makes the program meaningful, how it supports different learning styles, and why providing additional learning options helps students grow. The students even share a fun challenge for the Superintendent...

As the Winter Olympics conclude in Italy, Elevated Insights brings the Olympic spirit close to home. Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with Tooele County’s own Olympian, Amy Palmer. Amy represented the United States in the hammer throw at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games after a record‑breaking career at Grantsville High School and Brigham Young University. Today, she teaches at Stansbury Junior High School, inspiring students in the classroom and in life. In this episode, Amy reflects on h...

Join us as we visit schools across TCSD to share the sounds of the season! Hear performances from West Elementary, Grantsville Junior High, Tooele Show Choir, and our transition students. It’s a festive celebration of talent and togetherness. Listen now and enjoy this holiday of music!

While recording a previous episode in a French Dual Language Immersion classroom, we decided to pull in a few students for an "OFF THE RECORD" conversation about their experience in the DLI program. This bonus clip offers a fun, candid perspective from the students themselves... and they were even allowed to speak in English (a rare treat in a DLI class!). Hear what Ashlyn, Amanda, and Keith love about learning in two languages and how the program is shaping their education in unique ways.

Celebrate the season of gratitude with our Thanksgiving special! We asked elementary students from Sterling, Old Mill, and Twenty Wells what they’re thankful for and their favorite Thanksgiving foods. From preschoolers to sixth graders, their answers range from sweet and simple to wonderfully unexpected. Tune in for a heartwarming collection of perspectives that will make you smile and remind you what Thanksgiving is all about.

In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst talks with three educators whose careers began outside the classroom. Chad Valdez (Criminal Justice), Brianna Rounds (Dental Assisting), and Jodi Cook (Computer Technology) share how their real-world experiences in law enforcement, healthcare, and tech influence their teaching, connect with students, and prepare learners for life beyond school. Discover the challenges, benefits, and unique perspectives that come from bringing in...

Our “Off the Record” episodes shares some of the conversations that happen after the official recording ends, at least unofficially. These short bonus episodes capture candid thoughts, extra stories, and fun insights that we still want to share with you. It’s a quick listen with a lot of personality. This week listen as the Bookmobile crew talks Off the Record about building relationships, how literacy opens up the world, and the new Reading Rainbow.

What happens when the library hits the road? In this episode of Elevated Insights, we’re taking you inside the world of the Utah State Library’s Bookmobile—a rolling library that brings thousands of books and digital resources to rural communities across Utah. Join us as we visit Vernon Elementary and talk with the Bookmobile driver about the magic of delivering stories on wheels, the joy of connecting kids with reading, and the adventures that happen when the library comes to you. You’ll hear s...

Welcome back to Elevated Insights, the official podcast of Tooele County School District! We’re kicking off a new season with an inspiring episode that highlights the global reach and local impact of our French Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program. In this on-site recording straight from Grantsville High School, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with three remarkable educators whose journeys span continents and classrooms: Jean Charconnet – French DLI Teacher, Grantsville High Cloe Rem...

In this special graduation week edition of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we hear from some of our dedicated faculty and staff as they share thoughtful advice and encouraging words for the Class of 2025. As our seniors prepare to take their next steps beyond high school, this episode offers a collection of uplifting messages meant to inspire confidence, resilience, and hope for the future. Whether you're a graduate, a proud family member, or part of our TCSD community, this episode is a cel...

What happens when you ask students to name a teacher who’s changed their life? You get some genuine, heartfelt, and fun answers. In this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we step out of the office and into the hallways to hear directly from our students as they give shoutouts to the teachers who’ve made a real difference. It’s a celebration of connection, gratitude, and the everyday heroes in our classrooms.

In this fascinating episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with some talented students who have dubbed themselves The "Bee" Team and their incredible teacher, Grant Roberts, from the CLC CTE Graphic Design 3 class. These innovative students recently secured first place in the TSA Game Board Design competition and are now preparing to compete at the TSA Nationals in Tennessee. Join us as we delve into the creative process behind their award-winning ...

If you're a fan of the Rise Up Children's Choir or simply appreciate the harmony of talented voices coming together to create beautiful music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This week, Dr. Ernst sits down with one of the shining stars of the Rise Up Children's Choir, Kenzington Anderson. Kenzie, a student at Stansbury High School and a member of the school's show choir, shares her journey and the rhythm of her dreams. Her mom, Valerie Anderson, also joins us, providing a backstage pa...

Join Dr Ernst on Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast this week as he explores the world of kindergarten with three of our dedicated elementary educators: Meghan Mouritsen, Michelle Bruderer, and Thomas Trotter. They share their experiences, challenges, and joys of teaching kindergarten, along with insights into recent legislative changes and the registration process. Terra Sherwood also provides valuable behind-the-scenes perspectives about registration. Tune in to hear inspiring stories from the...

Join Superintendent Ernst and special guests Corley Ward, Silvia Robles Juhas, and Lois Simpson as they discuss the power of learning about different cultures and the growth of the district’s upcoming Culture Fest event. In this episode, we explore the benefits of cultural education and share inspiring stories of communities coming together thanks to the languages being taught in our schools. They also touch on some of the exciting activities, cultural performances, and delicious offerings from...