Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast
by Tooele County School District
Welcome to "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast," your backstage pass to the heart of what and who makes Tooele County School District run. In this podcast, we're breaking down classroom walls and opening up conversations with students, educators, community leaders, and more. 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.
Episodes
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EPISODE 70: The Science of Inventory
Warehouse Supervisor sits down with Dr Ernst to discuss the science and planning that goes on behind the scenes at the warehouse to help our schools get many of the supplies they need each day. Learn about the growth and need of the warehouse as the district has also grown.
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EPISODE 69: Changes to the Cell Phone Policy
Cell phones in schools remain one of education's most talked-about topics. In this follow-up to one of our most popular episodes, Dr. Ernst sits down with Principal Ethan Wilford, teacher Heather Staten, and students Zayne Smith and Claire Cowley to talk about life after the policy changes, how...
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EPISODE 68: OFF THE RECORD talking Harry Potter
A simple question to the GEM students in episode 59 about Harry Potter opened the door to an energetic conversation about books, reading traditions, and Hogwarts houses. Whether you're a dedicated Potterhead or just curious what all the fuss is about, this Off the Record episode offers a fun...
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EPISODE 67: Hockey Dreams with Griffin
As a new NHL season gets underway and excitement around the Utah Mammoth continues to grow, we sit down with Griffin, now an eight-grade student at Grantsville Junior High School who is making a name for himself on the ice. In this episode, Griffin shares how he first discovered hockey, what the...
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EPISODE 66: Jukestir
What do UFC fighters, Parkinson's therapy programs, and a Grantsville High School social studies teacher have in common? In this episode, Dr. Mark Ernst talks with Brad Evans about Jukestir, an invention that challenges the brain as much as the body. What started as a better training tool for...
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Episode 65: UHSAA Realignment
This episode explores the upcoming UHSAA realignment process and some of the changes being used for high school athletics across Utah. Dr. Mark Ernst is joined by TCSD Activities Director Catham Beer and Tooele High Athletic Director Cody Valdez to discuss how classifications and regions will be...
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EPISODE 64: Updates and Changes with School Safety
Dr Ernst sits down with Bob Curfew this week to discuss changes and updates in school and student safety. From wearable panic allerts to school guardians, tune in to learn about some of the things going on at the state and school level to help keep our students and employees safe.
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EPISODE 63: The American Exchange Project
We kick off another season of Elevated Insights by talking with Lisa Mecham, a teacher at Grantsville High School, and students Courtney and Chloe about the American Exchange Project. Similar to a foreign exchange program, this unique opportunity allows students from across the country to...
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EPISODE 62: Behind the Scenes, Making a Difference
In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with three outstanding district leaders recognized at the Annual Recognition Banquet. Lisa Erickson, Dorothy Norrington, and Megan England represent the growing group of certified non-teachers whose work often happens...
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EPISODE 61: Removing Barriers: Inside the Teen Center at Deseret Peak High School
What happens when students have a place where they feel supported, seen, and ready to focus on learning? In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst records from Deseret Peak High School to spotlight the Teen Center and the people behind some of the district’s most...
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EPISODE 60: Grantsville Girls Wrestling - A Budding Dynasty
In this episode of Elevated Insights, we step onto the mat with members of the Grantsville High School girls wrestling team, one of the Utah's fastest‑growing sports with one of the most successful programs. Joined by Superintendent Ernst and student cohost Rebekah Smith, the athletes share what...
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EPISODE 59: Small Thinkers, Big Ideas... A Visit with GEM Students
In this episode of Elevated Insights, we take listeners inside the GEM program, where students explore creative thinking, problem‑solving, and hands‑on academic challenges. Joined by gifted‑and‑talented teacher Stacie Blake and several GEM students, Superintendent Ernst talks with them about what...
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EPISODE 58: From Grantsville to Sydney... A Conversation with Olympian Amy Palmer
As the Winter Olympics conclude in Italy, Elevated Insights brings the Olympic spirit close to home. Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with Tooele County’s own Olympian, Amy Palmer. Amy represented the United States in the hammer throw at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games after a…
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EPISODE 57: A Holiday of Music
Join us as we visit schools across TCSD to share the sounds of the season! Hear performances from West Elementary, Grantsville Junior High, Tooele Show Choir, and our transition students. It’s a festive celebration of talent and togetherness. Listen now and enjoy this holiday of music!
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EPISODE 56: From Paris to the Classroom "OFF THE RECORD"
While recording a previous episode in a French Dual Language Immersion classroom, we decided to pull in a few students for an "OFF THE RECORD" conversation about their experience in the DLI program. This bonus clip offers a fun, candid perspective from the students themselves... and they were…
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EPISODE 55: Thanksgiving Special
Celebrate the season of gratitude with our Thanksgiving special! We asked elementary students from Sterling, Old Mill, and Twenty Wells what they’re thankful for and their favorite Thanksgiving foods. From preschoolers to sixth graders, their answers range from sweet and simple to wonderfully...
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EPISODE 54: From Industry to Instruction
In this episode of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst talks with three educators whose careers began outside the classroom. Chad Valdez (Criminal Justice), Brianna Rounds (Dental Assisting), and Jodi Cook (Computer Technology) share how their real-world experiences in law…
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EPISODE 53: The Bookmobile "OFF THE RECORD"
Our “Off the Record” episodes shares some of the conversations that happen after the official recording ends, at least unofficially. These short bonus episodes capture candid thoughts, extra stories, and fun insights that we still want to share with you. It’s a quick listen with a lot of...
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EPISODE 52: The Bookmobile: The Road to Reading
What happens when the library hits the road? In this episode of Elevated Insights, we’re taking you inside the world of the Utah State Library’s Bookmobile—a rolling library that brings thousands of books and digital resources to rural communities across Utah. Join us as we visit Vernon…
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EPISODE 51: From Paris to the Classroom: A Global Journey in Education
Welcome back to Elevated Insights, the official podcast of Tooele County School District! We’re kicking off a new season with an inspiring episode that highlights the global reach and local impact of our French Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program. In this on-site recording straight from...
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Episode 50: Senior Advice from the Faculty & Staff
In this special graduation week edition of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we hear from some of our dedicated faculty and staff as they share thoughtful advice and encouraging words for the Class of 2025. As our seniors prepare to take their next steps beyond high school, this episode offers a...
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EPISODE 49: Student Shoutouts - Thank You, Teachers!
What happens when you ask students to name a teacher who’s changed their life? You get some genuine, heartfelt, and fun answers. In this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we step out of the office and into the hallways to hear directly from our students as they give shoutouts…
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EPISODE 48: The "Bee" Team
In this fascinating episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with some talented students who have dubbed themselves The "Bee" Team and their incredible teacher, Grant Roberts, from the CLC CTE Graphic Design 3 class. These innovative students recently...
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EPISODE 47: Rise Up with Kenzie Anderson
If you're a fan of the Rise Up Children's Choir or simply appreciate the harmony of talented voices coming together to create beautiful music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This week, Dr. Ernst sits down with one of the shining stars of the Rise Up Children's Choir, Kenzington...
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Episode 46: Kindergarten Stories
Join Dr Ernst on Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast this week as he explores the world of kindergarten with three of our dedicated elementary educators: Meghan Mouritsen, Michelle Bruderer, and Thomas Trotter. They share their experiences, challenges, and joys of teaching kindergarten, along with...
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Episode 45: Culture Fest
Join Superintendent Ernst and special guests Corley Ward, Silvia Robles Juhas, and Lois Simpson as they discuss the power of learning about different cultures and the growth of the district’s upcoming Culture Fest event. In this episode, we explore the benefits of cultural education and share...
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EPISODE 44: School Lunch Taste Test & Student Favorites
Get ready for a mouth-watering episode of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast"! This week, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst takes us on a flavorful journey through the Stansbury High cafeteria. We'll be joined by Casey Kress, Child Nutrition Director, and Rose Tovar, SHS Child Nutrition Manager, to...
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EPISODE 43: Building Champions On and Off the Diamond
Legendary coaches do more than win games; they shape lives. This week, we celebrate the extraordinary journey of Coach Barry Pitt, soon to be enshrined in the Utah's Coaches Hall of Honor. Dr. Ernst explores Barry's remarkable success on the diamond and the behind-the-scenes efforts that forged a...
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EPISODE 42: Student Artists Shine
There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of a teacher watching their students blossom and find their passion. In this episode of Elevated Insights, we get a glimpse into what that is like with Tooele High art teacher Ruth Nichols. She joins Superintendent Ernst along with a couple of her...
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EPISODE 41: Conversation with the Board
Join us for an enlightening episode of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast" as we sit down with two of our dedicated board members, board president Melissa Rich and newly elected Todd Thompson. Discover what it's like to serve on the board, the unique responsibilities they hold, and the…
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EPISODE 40: The Outtakes
Join us for a special episode of Elevated Insights as we take a break from our usual format! This week, Communications Director Brett Valdez steps in for Superintendent Ernst to share some of the funniest and most memorable outtakes from our first 39 episodes. Get ready to laugh and reflect on…
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EPISODE 39: Christmas Favorites
As the holidays approach, we hit the schools this week to ask students and teachers about their Christmas favorites! From beloved songs and movies to tasty treats and special traditions, this episode is packed with classic holiday cheer, unique perspectives, and answers that will keep you…
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EPISODE 38: Making Waves... The Legacy of Coach Mel Roberts
In this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we celebrate the incredible legacy of Coach Mel Roberts, who dedicated nearly five decades to building the Tooele High School swim program and shaping the lives of countless athletes. Superintendent Ernst is joined by an inspiring…
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EPISODE 37: Connor's Journey of Inclusion and Success
Join us on this inspirational episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, where Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with an amazing group of guests to celebrate the remarkable journey of Connor McInnes, a standout student at Tooele High School. Connor, along with his mother Chantel, and...
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EPISODE 36: 4th Graders Ask the Questions
Get ready for a special on-the-road edition of Elevated Insights! This week, we’re switching things up and bringing you one of our most entertaining episodes yet. We stopped by Mrs. Allen’s 4th grade class at Settlement Canyon Elementary, where the students took over as interviewers. With no...
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EPISODE 35: Playing Sports at the Next Level
Welcome to another exciting episode of ‘Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast’! Dr. Mark Ernst and guests explore the journey of high school athletes with dreams of playing at the collegiate level. Our fantastic lineup of guests includes: Avery Allred, a senior basketball player from Grantsville High...
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EPISODE 34: Completing Stansbury's Educational Journey
Following up on last week’s episode about Deseret Peak High School, this week we bring you an update on Stansbury Junior High School. Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with Krista Sparks, the future principal, and Kayden Calder, the "likely" future assistant principal, to discuss the latest...
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EPISODE 33: Deseret Peak HS Update
Join Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst on this episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast as he talks about the progress at Deseret Peak High School. Dr. Ernst sits down with Principal Matt Parker, Athletic/Activity Director Andee Bouwhuis, and Finance Secretary Melanie Wiley to discuss everything...
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EPISODE 32: The Story Behind the Intro
This week’s episode is a fun and quick listen that dives into the story behind the catchy intro music you hear at the start and end of every Elevated Insights episode. Superintendent Ernst finds himself in a bit of hot water as he reveals the composer behind the music—his talented wife, Julie...
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EPISODE 31: Unlocking Scholarships with Tips and Stories
In this episode of ‘Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast,’ Dr. Ernst sits down with Kristin Cavey, Scholarship Coordinator at Stansbury High School, and Rose Van Moorlehem, a parent and educator with firsthand success navigating the scholarship application process. They discuss the ins and outs of...
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EPISODE 30: Crafting Futures in Woodworking
In this episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we explore the exciting world of woodworking with Jeff Goodsell from Grantsville High School and Wyatt Harding from Stansbury High School, two of the district's dedicated CTE Woodshop teachers. We dive into their passion for hands-on learning...
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EPISODE 29: Kickin' Cancer's Can
In episode 29 of Elevated Insights, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst hosts a powerful discussion with Andrea Rawlings, a fifth-grade teacher at Overlake Elementary, and Lilian Matson, a 2023 graduate of Tooele High School and honoree of Kickin' Cancer’s Can. Andrea shares how the event started back…
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EPISODE 28: Cultivating Culinary Chops at the CLC
We're serving up something special on this episode of Elevated Insights! Join us as we chat with Chef Bronco Cloward, leader of the ProStart program, and his talented students, Ebon Davis and Canyon Smith. Discover how our students gain hands-on culinary experience in a professional-grade kitchen...
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EPISODE 27: Beyond Football's Xs & Os
Elevated Insights is back for Season 2! In our "kickoff" episode, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with three local high school football coaches: BJ Hunter from Tooele, Lee Leslie from Stansbury, and David Millward from Grantsville. They’re here to talk about more than just Xs and Os as…
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EPISODE 26: Graduation at the Concert Hall and Senior Memories/Advice
As the first year of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast" comes to an close, what a better way to end it than talking about graduation and celebrating the wonderful accomplishments of our seniors. Dr. Ernst first sits down with Nick Sidman, Director of Entertainment at the Peppermill Hotel &…
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EPISODE 25: TEF & Ophir Classes
This week on Elevated Insights, Dr. Ernst sits down with the dynamic team from the Tooele Education Foundation, the unsung heroes of our district. Joining the conversation are Keith Bird, Ed Dalton, and Clint Spindler, who shed light on the incredible work they do. But that's not all - we also…
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EPISODE 24: A Road Trip to Talk National Board Certification
Buckle up, because this week we're hitting the road as we record from Rose Park Elementary School in Salt Lake. Dr. Ernst is your guide on this journey as we jump into the world of National Board Certification with some truly inspiring educators. Joining us is Alex Lopez, not only a Spanish…
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EPISODE 23: Homework... What Is It Good For?
Welcome to Episode 23 of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast"! From the clang of the first school bell to the last page of your textbook, homework has been a cornerstone of our educational journey. But is it a necessary tool for learning, or does it need a makeover? In today's episode, join Dr....
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EPISODE 22: Boys & Girls Club's New Crib
Step into the vibrant world of the Tooele Boys and Girls Club, where every child's potential is nurtured, and futures take flight! Join Dr. Mark Ernst, Superintendent of Tooele County School District, as he explores the heartwarming journey of this beloved community hub. From humble beginnings to…
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EPISODE 21: Fresh Fruits & Vegetables... and Lots of Laughs
Are you curious about the taste of dragon fruit or kumquats? Have you heard about blue bananas from Mexico? Ever paired strawberries with honey? Prepare for a delicious adventure as we invite you to join us on the latest episode of Elevated Insights! Dr. Ernst and Casey Kress, our Child Nutrition...
About this show
Welcome to "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast," your backstage pass to the heart of what and who makes Tooele County School District run. In this podcast, we're breaking down classroom walls and opening up conversations with students, educators, community leaders, and more. 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.
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Tooele County School District
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