Episodes

Welcome to another episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, where we delve into the world of education with a focus on mentorship. Join Dr. Mark Ernst, the Superintendent of Schools, as he engages in a lively discussion with our new teacher mentors: Camille Clegg-Patch, Cheri Leavitt, Debbie Bird, and Jeanne Manzione. With over 100 years of combined experience in education, these mentors share invaluable advice gained from their extensive journey. From overcoming challenges to celebrating ...

On this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, recorded from the KSL Podcast studios, we shine the spotlight on some unsung heroes in our communities—students facing intellectual disabilities and unique challenges. These remarkable individuals inspire us not with their fame or athletic prowess, but with their everyday courage and determination. Dr. Ernst welcomes Utah's First Lady, Abby Cox, to explore her passion for Special Olympics and Unified Sports in Utah's high schools. Ad...

Join us on this episode of Elevated Insights as we sit down with Jamie Broderick, a passionate photography teacher and yearbook advisor at Tooele High School. With over two decades of experience in the field and a thriving photography business, Jamie brings a unique perspective to the classroom. In this episode, we explore Jamie's journey from being a successful professional photographer to becoming an educator, discover her passion for photography, what sets her apart in the industry, and the t...

Join Superintendent Ernst as he hosts a compelling episode diving into the complexities of cell phones in classrooms. In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ernst is joined by a diverse panel of guests, including students Raygan Clegg, Jessi Norton, and Jax Allred, as well as educational professionals Ethan Wilford, Makaylee Tenhoeve, and Whitney Wallace. While the adults share insightful experiences and challenges they have faced, it's the voices of students—Raygan, Jessi, and Jax—that truly elevate...

Join Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst as he explores Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Tooele County School District during CTE month. In this episode, Dr. Ernst and CTE Director Kristy McLachlan discuss the diverse CTE courses available. Learn about some of the fascinating projects done by students with Cyber Security and IT instructor Clint Thomsen with astronauts and NASA, and the impact courses like Dental Assisting with Brianna Rounds has on students lives. From traditional students to ...

In this episode of "Elevated Insights" guest host Brett Valdez steps in as Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst joins us to educate us about school funding and budgets. Together, they break down essential topics such as budget timelines, the Weighted Pupil Unit (WPU), funding sources, and common misconceptions surrounding education finance. They also touch on the budget cut challenges the district is currently facing. Tune in to gain a clearer understanding of how school funding works and the district'...

Gear up for an unexpected journey into the world of agriculture in Dugway! Join us as we dive into the thriving FFA program in a place not commonly associated with farming. Dr. Ernst sits down with advisor Ed Johnson, along with students Quaid Elton and Vincent Pace, to discuss the origin of the chapter’s name and the diverse backgrounds of their members. And don’t miss a couple of cheerful surprises, including Quaid serenading us with the Cheers theme song and the superintendent's personal turk...

Discover the diversity at Stansbury High School in our last podcast of the year. Join the conversation with Aurian, PICA club president and student, and Whitney Cruz, advisor and English teacher at Stansbury High, as we explore the club's origins and its contribution to celebrating diversity. We will also learn about the school's initiatives like Odd Jobs and the Silver Stampede, designed to raise funds for charity during the holiday season. This episode offers a straightforward look at unity, c...

For over three decades, Tooele High School's Winter Tree Festival has been a holiday cornerstone of the Tooele community, impacting countless lives within the school's halls and beyond. Join Kami Perkins, Cody Valdez, Dana Emery, and Emily Sheppard in this touching podcast as they share heartfelt stories about the festival's origins, its evolution over the years, and the lasting impact it has had on the community and school. Get ready for an emotional and laughter-filled ride as we reminisce ab...

In this week's episode, we sit down with some of our preschool contingent to talk about "Preschool Adventures". While we explore practical tips for parents to prepare their little ones for school, they also share the adorable and humorous antics of preschoolers. From endearing moments like being affectionately called "Mommy" or "Daddy" to the hilarity of being compared to a horse or sporting a non-existent mustache, these educators unveil the candid and unfiltered world of preschool interactions...

In the latest podcast episode featuring COL James Harwell, Dugway Commander, listeners are taken to the Dugway School for a unique insight into the Dugway Proving Grounds mission and community life. The engaging conversation covers a range of topics, including COL Harwell's personal experiences living in over 34 homes, Dugway's status as the 4th largest Army installation sprawling across nearly 800,000 acres, and intriguing events like the Alien Invasion Run. The discussion also touches on space...

In this podcast episode, we'll introduce Sean Fetherston, a passionate biology and physics teacher at Tooele High School and the new district science fair coordinator. Sean's journey to education wasn't always the plan, and he'll share his professional background before joining the Tooele County School District.

In the second part of our discussion on student safety, we once again sit down with Dr. Ernst, Bob Curfew, and Mert Russo. We dive deeper into the measures aimed at ensuring the safety of students and employees within our schools. We discuss critical components such as Standard Response Protocols terms like "secure," "lockdown," and "evacuate." Additionally, we explore apps and software solutions like SafeUT and Bark. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone concerned with enhancing school...

Discover the crucial role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in ensuring school safety in this week's episode. In an era where school safety is paramount, this episode dives into the relationship between SROs and the school district. Join us as Mert Russo, the SRO at Stansbury High School, and Bob Curfew, the director of safety and security for the district, engage in a conversation with Dr. Ernst. This episode marks the first of a two-part series, providing valuable insights into this important...

From two friends with a passion for mountain biking to nearly 50 riders and an official team, join us as we talk to Collin Black, Nate Brady, and Leland Roberts about the start and growth of mountain biking in Tooele County.

In episode 5 of our podcast, we continue our exploration with Scott and Mark from Hughes Construction, focusing on the exciting updates at Deseret Peak High School. Discover the innovative features aimed at enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. We'll also explore the unique aspects of the school, including college-style learning spaces, functional aesthetics, and improved conveniences for sports and activity groups. Plus, Mark shares a unique experience where employees from Hughes, the ar...

This week we're joined by Mark Spence and Scott Walters, graduates of Tooele High and now part of Hughes Construction leadership who is building Deseret Peak High School. We delve into their roles in the construction of the new high school and discuss influential teachers like Niles Broadhead and Brent Eggett who helped to inspire their careers. This discussion will cover two episodes offering a closer look at projects enhancing our educational facilities and community relationships, showcasing ...

Join us in this episode of "Elevated Insights" as we delve into the world of school lunch. We'll explore gluten-free options with student Eliza Cowan, have a conversation with her mom, Chantel, and hear from Clarke N Johnsen's lunchroom manager, Misty Johnson. We'll be covering everything from corndogs and mashed potatoes to firework salad, and of course, a mention of Adam Sandler's popular parody, "Lunch Lady Land." Whether you're a student, parent, or just curious about school lunches, this ep...

Amid the spirited celebrations of homecoming at several of our high schools, join us today as we dive into the heart of school traditions. In this engaging episode, Superintendent Ernst talks with Kenna Aagard and Rowe Harrison, exploring the vibrant role traditions play in shaping our students' school experience.

In our debut episode, we dive into the world of education with an enlightening conversation featuring two dedicated teachers, Jenn Kinville from Willow Elementary and Chris Wilcox from Tooele High. Dr. Ernst moderates the discussion as our guests shed light on what it takes to prepare for school from a teacher's perspective. They offer valuable advice for parents while also sharing personal stories about their unique paths to becoming teachers.

Welcome to "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast," your backstage pass to the heart of what and who make Tooele County School District run. In this podcast, we're breaking down classroom walls and opening up conversations with students, educators, community leaders, and experts. Whether you're a lifelong learner, a dedicated educator, or just passionate about education, join us on this journey of discovery as we uncover the stories, achievements, and heart of our educational community.