In the third episode of “The 2023 UCF VLP Institute Podcast Series,” Sebastian Garcia had his first conversation with the K12 teachers. The teachers he spoke with were Lisa Bostick and Kristen Reilly, both second-grade teachers at Union Park Elementary and Clay Springs Elementary, respectively. Several key themes get talked about in conversation for the first time in this episode, such as the three deliverables the teachers worked on during the Institute—the Veteran biography, a themed mini-tour of St. Augustine National Cemetery, and a lesson plan that integrates the Veteran experience within the context of American and local history. More importantly, however, these teachers represented the youngest grade levels of the Institute—second grade—and thus had a unique perspective and approach from their peers. Lisa and Kristen explained the delicacy of implementing Veteran history teaching materials for a young audience. However, they also stressed why it’s ultimately worth pursuing.

This episode was directed, produced, written, edited, and hosted by Sebastian Garcia, and featured Lisa Bostick and Kristen Reilly.

Executive Producers: Sebastian Garcia and Dr. Amelia Lyons.

Music: “Honor and Glory” and “Real Heroes” by SergePavkinMusic (Pixabay)

Podcast Cover Artwork: Sebastian Garcia

The 2023 UCF VLP Institute Podcast Series is brought to you by the UCF Department of History and UCF’s Veterans Legacy Program—a partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration.