Public School Podcast

In this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School healthcare teacher Brendon Sato to talk about the growing opportunities for students interested in the medical field. From hands on healthcare training and the district’s Certified Nursing Assistant program to plans for an international healthcare tour through Great Britain and Scotland, Sato shares how real world experiences can shape a student’s future.The conversation explores the importance of exposure, travel, and practical learning in helping students discover whether healthcare is the right path for them. Sato also reflects on his own journey from laboratory scientist to educator and why preparing students for life beyond graduation is at the heart of public education.The episode also includes stories about classroom experiences, memorable teachers, school lunch favorites, and why public schools continue to make a lasting impact on students and communities.

After more than two decades leading Central High School’s theater program, Justin Speck sits down with Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer to reflect on a career that helped shape generations of students in Rapid City. From sold out productions and award winning student performances to hilarious backstage mishaps and emotional moments that changed lives, Justin shares the stories behind one of the most respected theater programs in the region.The conversation explores the importance of fine arts in public education, the lasting impact teachers can have on students, and why theater remains one of the most human experiences we can share. It is funny, heartfelt, inspiring, and a reminder of how one teacher can leave a lasting mark on an entire community.

This episode takes a meaningful look at one of the most powerful traditions in Rapid City Area Schools, the senior honoring and feathering ceremony. Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by Kit Veit and Marie Hebert to talk about the deep cultural and spiritual significance behind this event, which honors Native American graduates as they reach a major life milestone.From the meaning of eagle feathers and plumes to the role of family, prayer, and community, this conversation highlights why this ceremony matters not just for students, but for generations. You will also hear about the history behind these traditions, how they were once suppressed, and why preserving them today is so important.If you have never attended the feathering ceremony, this episode will show you why it is one of the most moving and impactful events of the school year. 

What does it really take to teach the youngest learners in our schools? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Jennifer Maciejewski, a junior kindergarten teacher at Valley View Elementary and former South Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist. Jennifer shares what a typical day looks like in her classroom, the importance of early childhood education, and how those first school experiences shape a child’s future.The conversation also dives into the heart behind teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with little learners, and the unexpected opportunities that come with being recognized for excellence, including a once in a lifetime ride in a Blue Angels jet. It is a fun, honest look at the people who help build the foundation for lifelong learning.

What happens when a local journalist is also a parent in the school system? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Chris Hornick of Homeslice Media and the Rapid City Post to talk about the unique perspective of covering schools while raising kids in them. From funny parenting moments to the responsibility of sharing accurate, positive stories, Chris gives an inside look at how local media and public schools work together to inform and strengthen the community. The conversation also highlights the impact of teachers, the importance of local storytelling, and why supporting public education matters for everyone. Plus, a few laughs along the way, including one unforgettable forged signature story.

School librarians are doing far more than shelving books and checking them out. In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with West Middle School librarian Shelley Rath to explore what the role really looks like today. From helping students discover a love of reading to teaching research skills, navigating technology, and even managing hundreds of student devices, Rath shares how the job has evolved. She opens up about her own journey from struggling reader to lifelong educator, the importance of access to books, and the small moments that make the biggest impact on students. It is a conversation about curiosity, connection, and why libraries still matter in a fast paced, digital world.

Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with guest Stacy Nehring, a Rapid City parent and founder of the Live Like Lily Foundation. After the loss of her daughter Lily following her sixth grade year, Stacy and her family turned tragedy into purpose. Inspired by an essay Lily wrote about kindness, the foundation was created to carry on her message of lifting others up through simple, meaningful actions. In this conversation, Stacy shares how small acts like compliments can change someone’s life, how the foundation supports students through scholarships and service, and how her family continues to honor Lily’s legacy across the community. It is a heartfelt reminder that even the smallest kindness can leave a lasting impact.

Sometimes it’s the smallest moments that make the biggest impact.In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by foundation board members Gretchen Burke and Laura Newman to talk about the “Above and Beyond” program, a simple but powerful way to recognize the people who make a difference in Rapid City Area Schools.From handwritten cards to surprise classroom visits, the program celebrates teachers, staff, and support teams who go the extra mile every day. The conversation dives into the emotional moments, the ripple effect of appreciation, and why recognition matters now more than ever in education.You’ll hear heartfelt stories, unexpected moments of joy, and a reminder that sometimes all it takes is a few kind words to change someone’s day.