Welcome to a special episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast where we take you back in time and relive the class of 2024 graduation ceremony. In this episode, we revisit the exhilarating speeches of prominent speakers including the Acting Principal, Dr. Jason Buck, two distinguished student speakers, and Superintendent, Dr. Travis Bracht. Get ready to experience the overwhelming power of Superintendent Travis Bracht's congratulatory message, praising the resilience and accomplishments of the students, infusing them with leadership skills, and imparting wisdom about life lived with courage, kindness, and passion. Next, delve into the passionate monologues of Isabella Behrle as she shares her journey - from young dreams to the brink of a new life, capturing the naiveté of youth, the thrill of embracing unknowns, and the nostalgia coupled with hope for the future. The narrative is followed by Yasamin Mohammadgul expressing her gratitude for those who've significantly influenced her life, notably her mother. Her speech touches many hearts, reminding us of the profound impact the influential figures in our lives can have on our personal journey. Take a trip down memory lane as we recall the challenges, triumphs, and major leaps that have brought us to the graduation moment and the future that lies ahead. In this special episode, we immerse ourselves in the profound graduation speeches that express gratitude to teachers, coaches, peers, and parents. These speeches inspire all to persevere, irrespective of the hardships faced, emphasizing the shared journey towards laudable growth and learning. We finish by reflecting upon life post-graduation, focusing on personal growth through trials, the importance of ambition, and resilience. The speaker concludes by reminiscing the invaluable lessons and experiences of their school life that have equipped them with tools to face future challenges. Listen to the heartfelt words of wisdom pushing them, and you, towards embracing life's unpredictability. Let this be your guiding force as well as your comfort in uncertain times - courage, kindness, embracing diversity, maintaining determination, building resilience, and nurturing personal pride – the potent keys to navigating life's journey.

Welcome to Affton Unplugged, the podcast that takes you into the heart of the Affton School District by highlighting the individuals and narratives that form this remarkable learning community. For our latest episode, we turn our attention to National Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week, devoting the entirety of this special edition to appreciating and recognizing the excellent work of our teachers. For the most comprehensive insight, we hear directly from our students. From the youngsters at Mesnier Primary School to the mature voices at Affton High School, all students were eager to share their views on their teachers. Responses beautifully encapsulate the enthusiasm, affection, and respect teachers inspire daily. Our younger students expressed their love and appreciation for their teachers widely. Words like 'kind,' 'fun,' 'helpful,' and 'nice' were frequently used to describe teachers who made learning enjoyable and engaging for them. Moving up to Gotsch Intermediate School, students fondly spoke about the flexibility and generosity offered to them by their teachers. They mentioned the varied teaching strategies and learning activities, teachers' willingness to answer questions and provide ample time for task completion, the extra recess, and the unforgettable field trips! At Rogers Middle School, the appreciation for teachers jumped up a notch, with students expressing gratitude for teachers treating all students equally, creating a welcoming learning environment, offering individualized attention, and providing substantial educational support. Finally, at Affton High School, the students portrayed their teachers as hardworking, selfless, approachable, passionate, and dedicated educators. They particularly appreciated their teachers for incorporating students' interests in the learning process, maintain high teaching standards and provide early morning ice cream when necessary! In summary, the episode offered a momentous celebration and acknowledgment of the teachers' significant contributions to the Affton School District. Don't miss out on hearing these heartfelt testimonials that paint a vivid picture of the positive impact made by our educators!

Join our newest episode of 'Affton Unplugged' with Superintendent Travis Bracht, set in the vibrant educational environment of Gotsch Intermediate School. Discover how the Affton School District is bridging the gap between staff and students, brought into the limelight through inspiring hidden tales from the heart of their scholastic ecosystem. Explore the thoughtful journey and diverse experiences of cultivating young leaders via the district's thriving Student Leadership Program. SEL Interventionist, Mrs. Greta Pitcher, and Assistant Principal, Dr. Sarah Davidovits, provide keen insight into their roles and experiences in shaping these young leaders. Join us as we delve into the essence of the Student Leadership Program, its progression, and their shared vision for its future. Our spirited student leaders, each with their unique passion and ambitions, provide insights into their experiences. They candidly share the application process, outline their leadership roles, and discuss the program's beneficial impact on their development - from voice cultivation to problem-solving, and fostering a thriving school environment. Finally, we conclude the episode with a nuanced dialogue on the program's approach towards nurturing student voices, community partnership, and its role in promoting the school's improvement goals and the integration of cultural learning into their curriculum. Hear our young leaders discuss their unique learning experiences, their commitment, and how they are striving towards positive changes in their school. In an era where student voices are often overlooked, the Affton School District has been relentless in championing student leadership and advocacy. Tune in to this not just as a podcast episode, but a testament to the innate potential within every young mind, inspiring educators, parents, and students alike.

Welcome to the latest episode of Affton Unplugged, where we delve into the heart of Affton School District by spotlighting its individuals and their accomplishments. In this episode, we focus on the acclaimed Rogers Middle School Basketball Team, and their extraordinary undefeated season. Our host, Superintendent Travis Bracht, invites you to enjoy the stories of our young champions and their dedicated coach, which detail their victorious journey and their thoughts on this triumphant achievement. Meet our guests - the esteemed Rogers Middle School Basketball Team, composed of three standout players and their devoted coach. Our first conversation is with the beloved coach, Mr. DiDonato, a seventh-grade social studies teacher with a long history with the Afton School District. He shares his unique path which led him to Rogers Middle School, and a glimpse into his personal life. Following the coach are key players Dresden, Drake, and Breylon - eighth-graders with diverse interests extending beyond the basketball court. Our discussion encompasses their winning season, detailing their successes, tryouts, off-court antics, and their relationships within the team. The coach attributes their undefeated victories to the exceptional bond within the team, providing a far-reaching glimpse into their unity and love for the game. The episode concludes with memorable highlights of the season, and expressions of gratitude from Coach DiDonato and the team members who underscore the essence of teamwork in their unbeaten season. Tune in to celebrate the undefeated Rogers Middle School basketball champions. Listen to their victorious story filled with teamwork, fortitude, and unforgettable memories—all while garnering valuable life lessons applicable beyond the game of basketball.

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht sits down with two retiring educators from Mesnier Primary School in the Affton School District - Cheryl Ladd and Janet Peistrup. Each of them has worked extensively in shaping the growth and learning of numerous students throughout their teaching careers. In the first part, Cheryl takes us through her journey from an Affton graduate to becoming a beloved kindergarten teacher who took a break to focus on her family before returning to her Alma mater to dedicate another 19 years. Janet, a reading and language teacher who transformed into a reading specialist, discusses how her three-decade-long career has been instrumental in helping students acquire foundational reading skills. Sharing a sense of nostalgia, both the retiring educators illuminate their profound love for education, the undying passion which shaped their careers, and the positive influence they’ve had on students' lives. They offer valuable career advice for fellow educators and highlight how embracing change, balancing work with personal well-being, and maintaining an open mind can lead to better learning outcomes. In the later part of the episode, Cheryl and Janet share some heartwarming classroom stories, shedding light on the immense impact educators have on their students. As they head towards retirement, our guests express their gratitude towards the Affton School District for fostering a supportive environment that helped them grow both personally and professionally. Join us in this episode of Affton Unplugged as we celebrate the achievements of Cheryl and Janet, two exemplary educators whose contribution to the domain of education is truly inspiring!

In this thought-provoking episode of Affton Unplugged, host Travis Bracht takes an insider's tour of the preparations for Affton High School's highly-anticipated spring musical, Into the Woods. This behind-the-scenes look peels back the curtain, revealing the passion, hard work, and commitment Affton's young thespians put into bringing their characters to life. Sylas Hampton and Mary Cooper, cast members and high school students themselves, willingly share their experiences. They delve into their dual lives – managing their academic responsibilities while devoting countless hours to rehearsals. Sylas divulges his recent success at the FCCLA competition, while Mary expresses her deep-rooted love for the arts. Furthermore, they take us through the twisted and thrilling storyline of Into The Woods. The viewers get to understand the complexity of their characters, the Baker and his wife, and how these vibrant roles intertwine with the other Grimm's Brothers tales within the musical. Sylas and Mary further discuss their journey of managing the challenging music score while synchronizing dialogues with specific actions. Amidst these challenges, their devotion to theatre and their roles is burning brighter than ever - illuminating their words with the fervor that can only come from a love of theatre. Moving beyond the stage's glare, the duo delve into their plans after high school. From dreams to fears, they discuss their hopes of theatre, becoming more than just a hobby. Amidst the pressure, they are immensely grateful for their school's supportive team that has continually propelled their theatrical productions to higher levels. In this captivating episode of Affton Unplugged, join us as we explore the unseen magic behind a high school musical. From memories formed to lessons learned, this episode brings to light the art, dedication, and allure of the theatre.

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast, brought to you by the Affton School District. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the transformative Youth Leadership Program at Affton High School. Join us alongside Mr. Lewis, the program sponsor, and several participating students who share their insights and experiences. Delve into the workings of this extraordinary program backed by Focus STL, with the intention of molding several junior students, from across various schools in the city, into promising leaders. Witness how this initiative creates unique opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community building for these young leaders. Hear first-hand accounts by students about their experiences in decision-making simulations, community-based projects, and other resourceful exercises. Understand how these unique learning opportunities are imparting leadership skills, forming deep connections, and offering invaluable insights to these individuals. Explore how initiatives such as these help them comprehend their local community's dynamics better, thereby shaping their journey into becoming well-rounded leaders. Reflect on the profound personal growth these young leaders have experienced. From recognizing their individual leadership strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging diverse perspectives, to coping with unexpected circumstances, every experience contributes significantly to their overall development. Moreover, Mr. Lewis, an experienced educator, sheds light on the remarkable growth he has witnessed in these young individuals. The episode is not just limited to serious discussions, but also reminisces about the memorable instances and camaraderie synonymous with the leadership program. Finally, the episode concludes with an invitation for rising juniors, eager to embark upon this enriching journey of leadership, community involvement, and personal growth. Tune in to discover more about the Affton High School Youth Leadership Program and explore the multifarious aspects of youth leadership development.

Join Affton Unplugged in an interesting episode where Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews Dr. Brian Esselman, an accomplished high school teacher in the Affton School District. Unfold the inspiring journey of Dr. Esselman as he depicts his passion for teaching, recount his experiences in the district, and sheds light on his academic achievements. Listen as he explains how attaining a National Board Certification amplified his teaching skills and the process involved in acquiring it. Get to learn about Dr. Esselman's Educational Leadership doctoral program centered on social justice, equity, and heritage leadership. He shares his in-depth insights into how this program synergizes with his national board certification pursuits, contributing positively to his professional journey. Further, Dr. Esselman takes us on a insightful trip to Montgomery, Alabama, that profoundly influenced and sparked meaningful dialogues among professional communities. This episode also touches upon the unusual challenges and learning opportunities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. So, tune in to this engrossing episode of Affton Unplugged that underscores the worth of higher education in enhancing educators and brings you closer to the passionate professionals devoted to education.

Welcome to an episode of Affton Unplugged dedicated to presenting the transformative work of the Mentoring Matters Club at Affton High School. Our guests, Mary Beth Merlo and Gina Stewart, tell their inspirational stories of setting up the initiative, aiming to promote social skills, foster friendships, and create an inclusive atmosphere for all students. Immerse yourself in a tale of dedication, growth, and triumph as we explore the mentoring program's inception in 2013 and its evolution into approximately 40 students participating on an annual basis. Discover the club's dynamic activities, including Special Olympics participation, pizza parties, field trips, and more, all designed to strengthen peer relationships and enhance the high school experience. Listen to heartwarming testimonies of students benefiting from conventional games and special outings they may not have experienced otherwise. The Mentoring Matters Club not only adds an enriching dimension to their school lives but also opens doors to pursue careers in education and special education. Benefit from a wealth of feedback from parents, mentors, students, and staff, underscoring the invaluable contribution the club makes to students' overall happiness and social development. Hear how this has led to the program gaining support and receiving recommendations at Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Join us as we express our heartfelt gratitude for the support provided by the Affton Education Foundation, which has been instrumental in keeping this outstanding initiative thriving. Come, be a part of our journey as we strive to make a difference in the lives of the students at Affton High School.

Welcome to another episode of Affton Unplugged, our enlightening podcast by the Afton School District. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the lives and experiences shaping our district's atmosphere. Join us as Superintendent Travis Bracht gives a comprehensive tour of the Affton Early Childhood Center, offering a deep dive into the pivotal education hub for our three and four-year-olds and pre-kindergarten students. The Center provides full-day and half-day programs as well as before-care and after-care and summer programs. We have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Amber Sinamon, the Early Learning Director, Erica Grissom, the Lead Teacher, and Stephanie Kanzler, a Classroom Leader. These individuals, who play significant roles in the Early Childhood Center, provide invaluable insights into the center's daily operations, the program structure, and the remarkable impact it has on the children's life and growth. Our discussion uncovers how the center engages children in Project Lead the Way, Motor Lab, and an innovative curriculum that involves coding and much more. From instilling scientific virtues to nurturing life skills through play, the Early Childhood Center's approach transcends traditional educational paradigms. Get to know more about the enrollment procedures and get a glimpse of the collaborative initiatives, summer programs, and before and after school care offerings. Dive into the captivating world of early childhood education and meet the extraordinary people shaping the future of young minds. In this episode, our guests delve into their journey of building rich and meaningful relationships with the students, tapping into their individual interests and encouraging parent participation in their child's learning process. Learn about how lessons like "All About Me" enable teachers to better understand their students and how focusing on children's interests can foster growth and development. Discover how the educators at the Affton School District create a vibrant learning community by integrating parents into their child's educational journey through unique communication methods. Enjoy heartwarming anecdotes from our guests' interactions with children and parents. Get ready for more educational discussions and inspiring stories from our community of educators in future episodes of Affton Unplugged. The educators at the Affton School District firmly believe in the transformative power of education and aim to provide the best experiences for each child. Stay tuned, and join the conversation.

Join us this week on Affton Unplugged, a family-oriented podcast that celebrates the remarkable stories and individuals of the Affton School District. This special episode offers you an inside look into the world of school social workers and social emotional learning (SEL) interventionists, spotlighting their crucial roles and contributions. This week's guests, Beckie Rainbolt and Greta Pitcher, are dedicated professionals advancing the crucial work of SEL at our schools. Felicitously timed to coincide with the upcoming SEL Day and National Social Worker Day, they offer a comprehensive account of their multifarious duties and how their work influences students' educational, emotional, and academic growth. We explore the diverse social work terrain, the interventionist's role within it, and the direct impact they make on their students' lives. Get an understanding of how they prepare and relentlessly adapt to better connect with students and address their needs, providing them with important life skills and an optimal learning environment. We shift our focus to the power and significance of SEL in promoting the comprehensive development of students. From collaborative problem-solving to building positive relationships, our educators share their innovative strategies for fostering an enriching learning environment, underlining that SEL is not just an add-on but a core part of education. The conversation also illuminates the latest advancements and practices in SEL, including the newly updated Second Step curriculum. Also, don't miss the inspiring stories of community engagement and togetherness that have contributed significantly to the Affton community. In this enlightening episode, dive into the fascinating world of Social Emotional Learning and grasp the instrumental role of these community maestros in shaping the minds and lives of tomorrow. Tune into the 'Affton Unplugged Podcast' now to learn more!

Welcome to our latest episode of Affton Unplugged, taking you behind the scenes at Rogers Middle School's drama club—the creative hub behind some truly intriguing theatrical productions. Join our superintendent Travis Bracht as he engages in heartfelt conversations with the inspiring drama teacher, Mr. Joe Murphy, and some exceptionally talented students. Unfolding his journey from an enthusiastic teacher in Houston, Missouri - Mr. Murphy leads us through his fascinating career, which included stepping into the role of director at the YMCA, before he made his return to teaching. His experiences, passion for hiking, and undying love for teaching form the heart of this compelling conversation. The plot thickens as the students reveal their roles in "Comic Book Artists," adding an element of surprise to the spring production. They proceed to share an equally engaging narrative about their fall performance, Honk Jr, diving into the depths of their characters while shining a light on their personal growth and how they overcome challenges. Their descriptions highlight not only their talent but also the sense of camaraderie that direct these productions. Prepare to be transported into the vibrant world of Blake, Russell, Kit, and Eden—each bringing a unique perspective to the table. From Blake's dedication exceeding acting, Russell's take on playing the 'Ugly Duckling,' Kit's journey from being an apprehensive participant to owning the stage, and Eden's unforgettable mic-incident—these stories not only entertain but resonate with the intricacies of performing arts. As we journey through rousing tales centered around stage fright, resilience, the impact of comedy, and growth, Mr. Murphy adds the cherry on top with his favorite memories. This episode serves as a testament to the drama club's vital role in shaping students, fostering friendships, nurturing talent, and building confidence that extends far beyond the stage.

Celebrating the unsung heroes within our school district, this episode of Affton Unplugged focuses on our dedicated school resource officers. Hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, we delve into the lives of Officer Bryan Felts of Affton High School, and Officer John Whitmore of Rogers Middle School. We learn about their service in the school district, as well as their personal journeys that have led them to serve and protect our educational community. Officer Whitmore, a veteran St. Louis County police officer, shares his rewarding experiences with the students and the Affton community. He emphasizes the significance of connecting with students on a personal level, and the gratifying effect these interactions can have in stressful situations. Officer Felts, a former Navy and a self-proclaimed family man, shares his passion for golf, hockey and how he prioritizes safeguarding the Affton High School community. Not surprisingly, he feels that the Affton School District is among the safest school districts and is proud to put his military and police training to good use. Both officers highlight the importance of safety in the school environment, praising the Affton School District for staying at the forefront of technology, training and safety measures. This engaging conversation reiterates that in the Affton School District, education and safety are always paramount.

Welcome to this thrilling episode of the Affton Unplugged Podcast! Join Superintendent Travis Brach with our two special guests, Jane Bohn and Hannah Dreas, as we celebrate National School Counseling Week through an exploration of the significant roles school counselors play within the Affton School District. In this episode, Jane from Affton High School and Hannah from Mesnier Primary School share insightful stories about their roles, responsibilities, and aspirations as school counselors. They uncover the multifaceted aspects of their work, that stretch beyond classroom schedules to crisis counseling, individual student planning, and career development programs. As we delve deeper into the conversation, we highlight the unique facets of school counseling at different grade levels, illustrating the criticality of their roles throughout a student's educational journey. Our school counselors showcase their dedication to students’ wellbeing and their personal experiences that shape their efforts behind the scenes. Wait until the end, as we hear from Harley, Blessed, and Lucas - some of our youngest learners at Mesnier Primary School, to gain an understanding of their experiences with their school counselors. They discuss the impact of counselor-led initiatives in developing their problem-solving abilities and emotional management skills. This episode provides an in-depth view of the evolving landscape of school counseling in the Affton School District. Listen in, as we celebrate the accomplishments of our school counselors during National School Counselor Week and develop an appreciation for these unsung heroes of our educational system.

Join Affton School District Superintendent Dr. Travis Bracht for an insightful episode of the Affton Unplugged Podcast, where he sits down with Dr. Jake Lohse, the Principal of South Technical High School. They discuss South Techs unique approach towards education, emphasizing real-world skills and student passion, with first-hand accounts from three Affton High School Seniors who describe their learning experiences. Students from different programs, ranging from HVAC to Auto Body Repair to Early Childhood Education, reveal their in-depth academic journey. Witness how education goes beyond traditional classroom learning, inspiring students like Ben, Kayleigh, and Zoey, who share their projects, passions, and plans for the future. Experience the passion and commitment from Dr. Lohse as he credits the school's success to the dedicated staff and Special School District organization, as well as the school's deep-rooted bond with the St. Louis workforce. The students share tips and advice for potential South Tech students, emphasizing how the school successfully augments education with practical real-world applications. This fittingly encapsulates the essence of South Tech's mission – to provide students with real-world experiences, real-world skills, and engaging, hands-on learning to prepare them for college and careers.

This episode takes you on a fascinating tour of South Technical High School as five juniors from Affton High School discuss the academic programs shaping their future in Cosmetology, Pharmacy Science, Construction Innovations,  Networking and Robotics. Hear firsthand the extraordinary learning experiences students are engaged in - each unique to their individual interests, supported by expert knowledge from industry-experienced educators. The episode allows listeners to gain an insight into the dynamic learning environment, as students share their journey, including their favorite experiences and their aspirations beyond graduation, nurtured at South Tech. The podcast also highlights the camaraderie and collaboration between the different programs and students from various backgrounds. You will also get to hear from the Principal at South Tech, Dr. Jacob Lohse, and the Superintendent of the Affton School District, Dr. Travis Bracht. The partnership between Affton and South Tech reinforces that in the Affton School District, education indeed is the most important thing they do.

In this episode you will hear how classroom teachers can use artificial intelligence (AI) to support their teaching and learning expertise. You will also learn about the types of things ChatGPT is better at than others and how to effectively use this specific AI system. Zack Wangler, 8th Grade Science Teacher at Rogers Middle School, and Adam Jasinski, Director of Technology in the Affton School District, discuss what they have learned about AI and offer tips on how employees can lean into AI to support their work.

In this episode you will learn about the APEX Learning Center within Affton High School. You will hear from current students taking online enrichment and in-person career exploration courses as well as a 2020 graduate that found their future occupation by tapping into what APEX has to offer. APEX stands for Academic Personalization and Experiential Learning and handles everything from dropout prevention to online enrichment to career exploration. Beginning with the 2018-19 school year APEX transitioned from a credit recovery program serving 35 students to a multi-facet academic options center that now serves over 200 students on an annual basis. Whether it is one period a day or a full-day programming plan, APEX is here to make sure each student has the success options they need. Erica Chandler, Director of Communications, will guest host this episode and you will also hear from APEX Teacher Brandon Lewis and Director of Student Services Dr. Loren Widmer who founded the APEX Learning Center in 2018.

The Affton High School Boys Soccer team had a phenomenal season that culminated in setting the single-season wins record and a District Championship. In this episode you will hear from Coach Brian Mesplay, Affton High School Teacher, and six of the seniors on the team. Listen to them share their most memorable moments from the season and other individual recognitions they received. At the beginning of the episode you will also get to hear the energy and sounds leading up to their Quarterfinal game.

In this episode you will hear from Affton School District alumni who returned this year as new teachers to the district. Listen to them recount fond memories from when they were students and how welcoming their colleagues have been since returning as teachers. The respect and appreciation they have for their teachers and the Affton community is clearly evident. We are so excited to welcome home our Affton alumni who will help educate the next generation of Affton students!