Inside The Rock

On this week’s episode, Dr. Grate talks with Chris Baldwin, Director of HR & Safety, and Teresa Layton, WWS Nurse Coordinator about how COVID-19 is impacting our district. Listen to learn the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

The awesome Mr. Joel Bruns, Innovation Specialist at WHS, was the guest on Inside the Rock. While your families are home for the next few weeks, take some time to listen and learn about all of the amazing things Mr. Bruns is doing in terms of innovation at WHS. Super exciting stuff!!

Meet the new Executive Director of the Westfield Education Foundation - Jody Dedon! On this week’s episode of Inside the Rock, Dr Grate talks with Jody about her experience, her vision for WEF and about the big Top Golf fundraiser coming up this weekend!

Dr. Grate talks to the WIS leadership team, Annette Patchett, Carmen Carnes and Mike McKinney. They gave a great overview of their new construction features, talked about the intense curriculum work happening with teachers, and how they are working hard to ensure ALL students have a sense of belonging!

Dr. Grate talks to our Assistive Technology (AT) folks, Beth Becher and Anne West! They had an interesting conversation about the strides we’ve made with AT, how they are working with teachers to help define needs, and how AT is helping provide assistance to ALL students! Video link: https://vimeo.com/389028749/4ae095e818

Dr. Grate talks to Marci Derado, Director of Student Support Programs! They discussed the latest and greatest happenings with BAC, All Aboard, TOTS and Summer Camps and some upcoming registration deadlines you’ll need to know!

Dr. Grate talks to Washington Woods Elementary School Principal Tom Hakim! They talked about their upcoming fundraiser featuring the Harlem Wizards on 2/9 which will help fund a learning garden and outdoor classroom! They also talked about their upcoming Leader In Me Leadership Day and a special award Mr. Hakim recently received which will also help fund some cool projects at WWES!

Dr. Grate talks to frequent podcaster Brian Tomamichel, WWS CFO. They talked about how we finished 2019, what to expect in 2020, and how our current tax rate is the lowest it’s been in a decade!

On this week’s episode of Inside the Rock, Dr. Grate talks to Maple Glen Principal, Mary Beth Riley, and Counselor, Nicole Newman, about Global Play Day! Global Play Day will take place around the world on February 5th and this year, MGES is participating! It’s an entire school day of unstructured and self-directed play time for all students - which is so important to the development of children. Listen to hear details!

Dr. Grate talks to frequent podcasters Ashley Knott and Kyle Miller about Purposity! They discussed how Purposity allows users to make a difference for our students, right from your phone! With Purposity, you’ll get a weekly notification, read the story of a student in need, and decide if you want to help - all from your phone in under a minute.

Dr. Grate talks to Student Impact Executive Director, Danyele Easterhaus. Danyele talked about how Student Impact is developing students to be leaders in our community while providing connections and building their “web of support” - which is key to success.

Dr. Grate talks to OTES principal, Robin Lynch, and students Hallie Walther and Reed Barton! These special guests talked about the Oak Trace Gives Back program and how this program is teaching students the importance of giving back to the community. Listen for details!

Dr. Grate talks “giving” with Ashley Knott, Rocks Family Experience Facilitator. Listen to hear about some of our community needs and how you and your family can help during this season of giving!

Dr. Grate talks to School Board President, Duane Lutz! They discussed the role the School Board plays for our district and some of the changes Duane has seen over the years both in the district and our community!

Dr. Grate has a conversation with Kyle Miller, SEL Coordinator, and teachers, Jeni McAndrews, Mitzi Johnson and Kara Linton about the changing environmental landscape kids are facing and how SEL can help with pressures and anxiety and provide tools to deal with difficult situations.

On Inside the Rock this week - back by popular demand - CFO Brian Tomamichel! He and Dr. Grate discussed how WWS is financially planning for the growth of our community and shared some great progress made over the last couple years! Listen to learn details.

Dr. Grate talks to SSES Principal Robb Hedges, Teacher Jaima Kinsler, and Dir. of Elementary Curriculum, Carrie Alday. They had such an energizing conversation about literacy and what they’re doing at SSES to build relationships and develop a love of reading at every grade level!

On this week's episode of Inside the Rock, Dr. Grate talks to the amazing Carol Cramer, WWS Behavioral Specialist! Listen to learn how Carol listens, coaches, problem solves, and empowers teachers and students to be focused on their strengths and be the best version of themselves.

Dr. Grate talks to new Monon Trail Elementary School principal Dana Dietz! Dana talked about her transition into her new role and how they are making every moment count at MTES. She also talked about some exciting new initiatives and community partnerships on the horizon.