Inside Hopkins

What does it look like when language, culture, and community come together in one learning experience? In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we explore the impact of Hopkins Public Schools’ Spanish immersion program, Juntos, and how it fosters bilingualism, belonging, and global understanding for students.Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three dedicated educators who bring the Juntos program to life each day. Together, they share how immersion education supports academic growth, builds cultural awareness, and creates meaningful connections across classrooms and communities. From the evolution of the annual Juntos performance to the everyday moments of student discovery, this conversation highlights the powerful role language plays in shaping identity, empathy, and opportunity.Guests:Juan Guajardo – Kindergarten TeacherEdwing Llangari – First Grade TeacherPam Shrestha – Second Grade TeacherResources:Photos from the Juntos GalaMore information about our Juntos Spanish Immersion program

This episode of Inside Hopkins focuses on what comes next following the successful bond referendum and capital projects levy renewal. Thank you to our voters for your strong support of Hopkins Public Schools!Our guests share how decisions are being made, what changes the community can expect to see, and how these investments will support students in meaningful ways. The conversation explores new Pathfinder learning spaces, safety and security upgrades, outdoor learning areas, and other improvements across the district.Guests:Julius Eromosele - Principal, North Middle SchoolGeno Mazzali - Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds, Hopkins Public SchoolsJohn Wetter - Director of Information Services, Hopkins Public SchoolsResources: Your hub for updates on Hopkins construction and renovation projects made possible by the 2025 bond referendum

In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed shines a spotlight on the Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) and the powerful behind-the-scenes role it plays across the district.For over 30 years, HEF has partnered with Hopkins schools and community members to fund programs and experiences that fall outside of the district’s general budget. Classroom grants, student support, community-building initiatives like #HopkinsStrong, and signature events like the Royal Bash are all ways the foundation works to ensure that students and educators have access to the resources they need to thrive.Guests:Emily Wallace-Jackson — Executive Director, Hopkins Education FoundationBetsy Anderson — Vice President, HEF Board of DirectorsEllie Siler — Marketing Coordinator, Hopkins Education FoundationResources:https://www.hopkinseducationfoundation.orgHEF Events#HopkinsStrong

As the Lunar New Year approaches (it begins February 17 in 2026), the XinXing community comes together through traditions, performances, and shared celebrations that honor Chinese heritage. Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by teacher Qian Xu and students Addison Brenk and James Zocchi to reflect on how the Lunar New Year is celebrated across Hopkins schools and how immersion education shapes students as learners and global citizens.Guests:Qian Xu — World Language Teacher, Hopkins High SchoolAddison Brenk — Sophomore, Hopkins High SchoolJames Zocchi — Sophomore, Hopkins High SchoolResources:Photos from the 2026 Lunar New Year PerformanceLearn more about our XinXing Immersion Program

What does it take to build an award-winning theater program while creating a space where every student feels they belong? In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by members of the Royal Productions team to talk about what makes the program so special, how students develop as artists and as humans, and how the community can support upcoming performances.Guests:Farrah Buffington — Theatre Program DirectorJames Buffington — Assistant DirectorJessica Alciati — Senior, Hopkins High SchoolResources:Royal Productions at Hopkins High SchoolRoyal Productions Instagram 

When snow, freezing temps, or even summer storms hit Minnesota, one question rises to the top for every family: Is school still on?In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and her guests walk us through what really happens during those late night and pre-dawn hours, how communication moves quickly once the call is made, and why the classic “snow day” looks different today.Guests:Dr. Nik Lightfoot — Assistant Superintendent and Director of Human ResourcesJolene Goldade — Director of CommunicationsJohn Wetter — Director of Information Services and meteorologistResources:More Info on Hopkins Inclement Weather

The Hopkins High School robotics team, The Technocrats, is fueled by far more than competition. It’s a safe place where students can be themselves and grow as engineers, strategists, communicators, and leaders. In this episode, the team shares what it takes to go from a challenge announcement to getting a working robot on the field, how new students find their place on the team, and why robotics is one of the most exciting ways our students prepare for a future in STEM and beyond.Guests:• Jason Herzog — Mentor and machine design engineer at General Mills• Amelia Carriveau — HHS senior, team captain• Kaitlyn Ditzler — HHS junior, team captainResources:www.hopkinsrobotics.orgUpcoming Events:MinneTrials, Tanglen Elementary School, Dec 6-7, 2025, www.minnetrials.orgMiddle School Competition, Eisenhower Elementary School, Jan 10-11, 2026Technocrats Open House, March 14, 2026 at Hopkins High School

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native peoples. In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed sits down with our American Indian Education Program leaders to learn how we support Native students in building cultural pride, identity, and belonging.Together, they explore the history and purpose of the program, the importance of representation in schools, and the ways Hopkins partners with Native students, families, and tribal communities to help every learner thrive.Guests:Debb Andreen – American Indian Cultural AssociateKaty Solko – American Indian Education CoordinatorResources:Learn: More about the program at HopkinsVisit: Dakota Sacred Hoop Walk at the ArboretumRead: Everything you Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to AskHike: Bdote

In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, especially in our schools. In this episode, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools protects students, staff, and families in an era where technology touches every aspect of learning.Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three members of the Hopkins technology and information services team who are leading the charge to keep our systems safe and resilient. Together, they discuss how the district responds to technology disruptions, what cybersecurity looks like in an E–12 setting, and how every staff member plays a role in protecting information and learning continuity.Guests:John Wetter – Director of Information Services and TechnologyScott Van Vleet – Assistant Director of Technology and Information ServicesKeshan Singh – Enterprise Information Specialist

What does a classroom designed for the future look and feel like? In this first episode of the school year, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools is transforming learning spaces to support safety, inclusivity, and engagement for every student.Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three district leaders at the forefront of reimagining what modern learning looks and feels like. Together, they discuss how space influences learning outcomes, what makes a school feel safe and welcoming, and why thoughtful design can improve focus, collaboration, and belonging.Guests:Dr. Ann Ertl – Director of Innovative Design and LearningDr. Tiffany Nielsen-Winkelman – Assistant Director of Instructional DesignBrian Stanley – Assistant Director of Special ServicesResources: More information about the upcoming referendum and voting options 

As we celebrate the Class of 2025, we’re excited to share the story of Isaac Winkler. Isaac was captain of the lacrosse team and a dedicated member of the hockey team. Beyond sports, he’s made history as the youngest delegate in the entire country to attend the Democratic National Convention.Isaac will be attending the University of Wisconsin–Madison next year, where he plans to pursue his future goals in politics.Please join us in congratulating Isaac on his impressive achievements in Hopkins Public Schools and wishing him the very best as he begins on this next chapter!

As we wrap up this season of Inside Hopkins, we’re celebrating the Class of 2025. In this episode, we’re shining the spotlight on one senior’s story. Mia Osman is a student board representative, part of the Muslim Student Association, Somali Student Association, and National Honors Society. She also co-founded two new groups at Hopkins High School: Immigrating to Success and Youth in Government.Mia will be attending the University of Minnesota next year with the aim to major in political science on a pre-law track and minor in history. She has a clear vision of becoming a civil rights lawyer and a politician. Please help us congratulate Mia on her incredible achievements in Hopkins Public Schools and wish her all the best on her future endeavors!

What happens when a school district stops asking “Who is gifted?” and starts asking “How can we nurture the gifts in every child?” In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools is transforming teaching and learning through its innovative, research-driven Schoolwide Talent Development model.Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by Dr. Leanne Kampfe, Jillian Myers, and Kathleen Roller. All three guests are dedicated educators who are leading this work across the district. Together, they unpack the shift from traditional, exclusive gifted programs to a personalized, affirming approach that nurtures exceptional abilities in every scholar.This episode is a must-listen for educators, families, and community members who believe in the unlimited potential of every student!Guests:Dr. Leanne Kampfe - Principal on special assignment for Hopkins Public SchoolsJillian Myers - STEAM specialist at Alice Smith ElementaryKathleen Roller - Enrichment specialist at Meadowbrook ElementaryResources:More information about Schoolwide Talent Development at HopkinsMore information about Confratute

In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we journey over 1,800 miles to the heart of Cuba. This spring, students from the Hopkins High School band, choir, and orchestra experienced a once-in-a-lifetime immersive experience designed to promote global citizenship through the universal language of music. Superintendent Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and our guests reflect on what it meant to travel abroad, how Cuban culture shaped their perspectives, and the role of music in building connections and serving as a universal language.You’ll hear how this trip reinforced core values we champion in Hopkins: empathy, confidence, and being well-traveled and globally-minded. A fair warning, though…this episode may make you want to salsa dance, book a flight, or join the Royals band!Guests:Nora Tycast - Hopkins High School band teacherCristian Cisneros - sophomore at Hopkins High SchoolIsabelle Mayer - senior at Hopkins High SchoolResources:Project Por AmorMusic at Hopkins

What does a pathway to adulthood look like for young adults with disabilities? In this episode, we talk about Transition Plus—a collaborative program between Hopkins Public Schools and St. Louis Park Public Schools designed to prepare young adults with disabilities for life beyond high school. More than just academics, Transition Plus focuses on real-life readiness. It equips students with the skills they need for employment, independent living, community participation, and postsecondary planning.Together, Superintendent Dr. Rhoda Mhirirpiri-Reed and our guests discuss a typical day in the program, the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into adulthood, and the powerful role of local business partnerships … and you hear from two amazing students who are also twins!Guests:Alaina Martin - Transition Plus Coordinator and Unified Special Olympics LiaisonFhonda Contreras - Director of Special Services at Hopkins SchoolsJames and Jacob Martinez - Transition Plus scholarsResources:More information on Transition Plus

In this episode, host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and our two guests explore the impact of nature in education. With Minnesota’s students spending more time on screens and less time outdoors, our conversation gets into why outdoor experiences aren’t just refreshing—they’re essential for student health, well-being, and academic success—especially when students engage in activities like the school’s renowned ropes course.Whether you’re an educator, parent, or just want to hear tips on how to get your family outside, this episode offers a fresh perspective on learning and living beyond the screen.Guests:Karl Schroeder - Physical and Health Education teacher at Hopkins High SchoolRobb Trenda - Fifth grade teacher at Glen Lake Elementary and Technology Integration SpecialistResources:Watch: Outdoor Adventures Class at Hopkins High SchoolLearn more: Hopkins Education Foundation - Outdoor OpportunitiesLearn more: Glen Lake Go!Learn more: Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning CenterGet outside: Free entrance days to all Minnesota state parks

What happens when students take the lead in shaping their school community? In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the Black Student Alliance (BSA) at Hopkins High School—a student-led organization dedicated to empowering Black students, fostering connection, and driving meaningful change. Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed sits down with BSA leaders to discuss the power of affinity spaces, the joy of Black culture, and the importance of advocacy in education.From organizing the Royally Speaking Black History Month celebration to engaging in important conversations about equity and inclusion, BSA members are making their voices heard—on campus and beyond. They share their personal experiences, reflections on Black identity, and aspirations for the future.Join us for an inspiring discussion about leadership, resilience, and the impact of student-led movements!Guests:Dallas Downey – 12th Grade, BSA PresidentAzariah Barrows – 12th Grade, BSA Event CoordinatorOnika Miller – Special Services Supervisor and BSA AdvisorResources:Hopkins BSA Instagram

What if the most important skill we can teach students isn’t what to think, but how to think? In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of the International Baccalaureate (IB) design cycle — a hands-on, inquiry-driven approach that challenges students to think critically, solve real-world problems, and unleash their creativity.Through stages of inquiry, ideation, creation, and evaluation, IB design empowers students to take ownership of their learning, connect classroom concepts to real-life applications, and develop future-ready skills. Whether it's building prototypes, brainstorming solutions, or refining ideas through feedback, this episode highlights how design thinking transforms traditional learning into something truly impactful.Get ready to be inspired by these educators who are shaping the problem-solvers of tomorrow!Guests:Kurt Carlson – Design Teacher, North Middle SchoolJulius Eromosele – Principal, North Middle School & 2023 Hennepin County Middle School Principal of the YearJeremy Reichel – Design Teacher & Instructional Coach, North Middle SchoolResources:Empowering Students with Design ThinkingInternational Baccalaureate at HopkinsInternational Baccalaureate Curriculum 

Inside Hopkins is back! In the first episode of 2025, we take a deep dive into the heart of the COMPASS program, a district-wide initiative based at Glen Lake Elementary that serves students with disabilities and complex medical needs. Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three incredible guests to explore the power of inclusion, compassion, and the importance of building meaningful friendships among all students.Compass students are a "kind of big deal"—not just because they helped spark fundraising for a $1 million inclusive playground, but because they embody the true spirit of inclusion. They teach their general education peers to look beyond disability and see the friend. Through daily interactions, they help shape a school culture rooted in acceptance, kindness, and genuine connection—one where every student feels valued and included.Get your tissues ready. This episode will pull at your heartstrings! GuestsKelly Becker - Hopkins parent and advocateKarin Brinkhoff - 3rd and 4th grade teacher, Glen Lake ElementarySher Unruh-Friesen - COMPASS teacher, Glen Lake ElementaryResourcesWatch: The COMPASSion Invasion at Glen LakeSupport: Play4AllRead: A Swing for Samara, inspired by the true story of the students at Glen Lake Elementary

Project Based Learning (PBL) is learning that you can’t google to get the answers. And its presence in Hopkins classrooms creates powerful learning experiences. From ensuring academic rigor to helping students develop confidence, empathy, and critical thinking, this episode highlights how PBL empowers students to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Listen in as our PBL experts share their classroom expertise and insights, and even sing a little Rick Astley.  Guest Bios: Ryin Carreras – Meadowbrook first-grade teacher Ben Dickens – Hopkins VirtualEDU educator Mary Kornmann – Instructional coach at Meadowbrook Resources:PBL WorksProject Based Learning 

Why are most mascots male-presenting? That’s a question that Principal Jim Hebeisen and Hopkins Transition Plus graduate and designer Mia Carter explored and eventually led to the creation of two new mascots, one male-presenting and one female-presenting. Hopkins might now be one of the only districts in the nation to have both a male- and female-presenting mascot. In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we tell the story of these beautiful lions and how they are connected to Hopkins’ commitment to inclusivity and Vision 2031. Funded by a $10,000 Hopkins Education Foundation grant and thoughtfully crafted, Carter shares the inspiration, symbolism, and careful design choices that shaped these mascots and explains why she believes they will make a meaningful impact on the Hopkins school community.Guests:Jim Hebeisen – Principal of Tanglen Elementary, who worked closely with Mia to incorporate Vision 2031’s core values into the mascot design.Mia Carter – A Hopkins Transition Plus graduate whose artistry brought the mascots to life, embedding character strengths and inclusivity.Clare Scott – A member of the Hopkins Education Foundation Grants Committee who mentored this grant application, supporting the vision of these inclusive mascots.Resources:Story - Hopkins Public Schools mascot costume design revealed at Tanglen assemblyHopkins Education Foundation - What We FundMia Carter’s Business

In this episode, Dr. M-R dives into the important topic of mental health among middle and high school students. Anchored around the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, the conversation features insights from two Hopkins High School students and three educators, exploring the complex relationship young people have with their phones—a key way they connect socially. Could this shift in behavior be fueling a mental health epidemic? Or maybe it’s more nuanced. We hear directly from our high schoolers on a potential cell phone ban in secondary schools and discuss how such policies might impact student mental health across middle and high school.Guests:Kim Campbell, West Middle School Dean of StudentsJeff Matchette, Hopkins High School CounselorYulonda Royster, Student Support SpecialistDoyhup Anderson, High School SeniorSabrina Scott, High School SeniorResources:The Anxious Generationhttps://www.kimcampbellconsulting.comMeet the Minneapolis ‘violence interrupters’

What does it take to thrive in college-level coursework while still in high school? In Episode Three of Inside Hopkins, we explore the world of Advanced Placement (AP) courses at Hopkins High School, where nearly half of Hopkins High School students are stepping up to this challenge. Hear from high school staff and scholars as they share their experiences with AP classes, discuss what sets the Hopkins program apart, and offer advice on how all students can take advantage of these opportunities.Guests:Crystal Ballard - Hopkins High School PrincipalJohn Sammler - AP Coordinator, Science EducatorLucy Ferro - High School SeniorBruce Lowmanstone - High School SeniorResources:Advanced Placement Courses at HHSAP College Board

Have you ever asked for something big—really big? $1 million big? What if the people you asked dared to say yes, even if they were not sure it was possible? And what if it happened? That’s the power of yes, and that’s what we will be talking about in Episode Two of "Inside Hopkins." Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed highlights an extraordinary student-led initiative from Glen Lake Elementary that started with a simple idea and a jar of change. The students aimed to build an accessible playground to ensure kids of all abilities could play together. With the support of their teacher, Betsy Julien, and Glen Lake Elementary Principal Jeff Radel, these young changemakers rallied the community, reaching out to local businesses and securing partnerships that led to national recognition. Their determination and creativity resulted in an impressive $860,000 raised, transforming their dream into a reality.The episode features two inspiring students, John Buettner and Mimi Priere, who were part of the fundraising efforts. They share their personal experiences, the challenges they faced, and how their idea turned into a movement that captured the nation’s attention.Guests:Betsy Julien, Design Teacher at West Middle SchoolJeff Radel, Principal of Glen Lake ElementaryJohn Buettner, West Middle School StudentMimi Priere, West Middle School StudentResource Links:Hopkins Education Foundation – The driving force behind funding innovative projects in Hopkins Public SchoolsGlen Lake Playground Donor List [April 2024]CBS Sunday Morning storyThe Kelly Clarkson Show story

Hopkins Schools was one of the first districts to have student board reps on its school board—and it’s a tradition we continue today. The Hopkins School Board includes three (soon to be four) Hopkins High School students and one VirtualEDU student. Our guests—Mia Osman, Praise Akinyele, and Manuel Wahyu—are all returning school board reps. They talk about what it is like to be part of the governing board, the biggest issues facing young people today, and how they feel about a potential cell phone policy at the high school. Guests:Praise Akinyele - 12th GradeMia Osman - 12th GradeManuel Wahyu - 10th GradeResources: Hopkins School Board

They started their high school experience in the pandemic and are entering a world that is rapidly changing and sometimes feels more polarized than ever. What does the Class of 2024 think of their high school experience and what the future might hold for them? We sat down with three seniors who talk about everything from globalization, phone addiction, social media’s impact on relationships, and even their favorite sandwich. They have a lot to say! They’re articulate, well-rounded, intelligent, and kind. Class of 2024, the world is yours and we were lucky to have known you! Congratulations!Guests: Adina LocketzTara PaschkeShaheim Porter Resources: Senior Spotlight SeriesGraduationThe Class of 2024 Reflects Back 

Get ready for our upcoming episode airing on June 6! In this special Graduation Day episode, our host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Redd will talk to graduating seniors about their Hopkins journeys, favorite memories, and future plans. Don't miss out on this special episode celebrating the milestone of high school graduation and the exciting paths that lie ahead!Resources:HHS Graduation Day Information

What’s for lunch? It’s a common question, but the answer really matters. And in Hopkins, what is for lunch (and breakfast) is delicious. All of our kitchens produce meals from scratch, partner with local farms for fresh ingredients, and cook meals that incorporate diverse culinary traditions. In this episode we talk about the impact of universal free meals and explain why it’s still important to fill out meal benefits applications every year. Guests: Andrea Schaak, Assistant Director of NutritionSarah Wohlforth, Cook SupervisorBrenda Nichols, Cashier Resources:Minnesota Department of Education - School Meal Applications

In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we are sitting among greatness. Out of 159 candidates from across Minnesota, these four remarkable educators advanced to the semifinals for the 2024 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. And just before this episode was recorded, we learned that two of our guests made it to the finalist stage. In this conversation we explore our guests' unique “why” for choosing to teach, the importance of relationships, the challenges and joys of the classroom, and why our students love our teachers more than pickles! The Minnesota Teacher of the Year will be named on May 5 at a recognition banquet in Saint Paul. Guests:Laura Jensen, Reading Teacher, North Middle SchoolEllen Wu, Kindergarten Teacher, Alice Smith ElementarySarah Gleason, Third-Grade Teacher, MeadowbrookDonghong Wang, Kindergarten Teacher, XinXingResources:Minnesota Teacher of the Year13 Hopkins Teachers Nominated for Teacher of the Year

You are bigger than your biggest mistake. How does it make you feel to hear that? It might give you the feeling that you can start over or try again. It might cause you to reflect or feel relieved. Restorative practices in our schools help our students understand each other and where they are coming from. While restorative practices can be used as a strategy for conflict resolution, they’re also used for community building and developing trust. Our guests explain why restorative practices are important and result in more learning happening in the classroom. We also explore how restorative practices can be used as a response to a new law that requires schools to use non-exclusionary practices PreK-3. Guests: Natalie Sawatzky - Principal, Meadowbrook ElementaryMaria Bearre-Boynne - Restorative culture coordinatorSuzanne Pakenham - Student success advocate, Meadowbrook ElementaryResources: TED Talk: Three Practices for Wisdom and WholenessTED Talk: The Single Most Important Parenting Strategy (Restoring Relationships) Additional Restorative Culture Trainings from MDENote to Educators: Hope Required When Growing Roses in Concrete5 Ways to Implement Restorative Practices in the Classroom

VirtualEDU is the only online school in the state of Minnesota to offer both fully online and blended (in-person + virtual) pathways. School leaders at VirtualEDU have turned the concept of online learning on its head by creating virtual learning environments that are supportive, community-based, and culturally affirming. Our guests, who all taught in in-person environments prior to joining VirtualEDU, talk about how this type of learning environment is changing their beliefs about what is important and why they believe virtual learning is here to stay.Guests:Dr. Tiffany Nielsen-Winkelman, Learning Design Futurist and Assistant Director of Innovation, Design & LearningDemond Johnson, Associate PrincipalRegina Johnson, Learning Facilitator Resources: Watch - Why VirtualEDU More Info - VirtualEDU website Read - Apple’s spaceship campus was designed to promote collaboration Read - Are You Putting Learners First? Here are 8 Ways to Check YourselfListen - Ask Caitlin - Student Agency

The Hopkins Public Schools Legislative Action Coalition (known as LAC) is a grassroots advocacy group of parents, community members, school board members, and high school students. But it’s also more than that. Within the group is a legacy that includes and involves many of the legislators who are currently in office today. The Hopkins LAC is the birthplace and powerhouse for Minnesota legislators and a model for other districts. In this episode, our guests talk about the work they do behind-the-scenes to ensure that legislators understand the education priorities of Hopkins Schools and other districts in Minnesota and what bills they would like to see pass. We also discuss school funding and why school districts, including Hopkins, are needing to cut budgets after receiving increased funding from the state last year.Guests: Shannon Andreson - Hopkins School Board Chair Catherine Callahan - LAC Liaison Steve Adams - LAC member and former Hopkins School Board ChairResources:Hopkins Legislative Platform - 2024Association for Metropolitan School DistrictsFind Your Local LegislatorInterested in joining or learning more about the Hopkins LAC? Contact Catherine Callahan at [email protected].

Okay. That’s not true. But a robot could have. That’s what we are talking about in this episode – the evolution of AI technology and the growing need for expertise in computer science and coding. These skills will be in high demand in the job market and are changing quickly. According to our guests, AI advancements like ChatGPT are the biggest technological shift that adults will see in their lifetime and may even be the biggest technological shift our students will see in their lifetime. What is AI’s place in education, and how can we help our students use the technology for good? What are we doing in Hopkins to ensure that our students are not only developing technology mastery, but are also learning to become critical thinkers and problem solvers within the context of technology? And how can we bring more women and people of color into the field of technology? You don’t want to miss this powerful conversation. Guests: Jen Wallace - Media Specialist, Glen Lake ElementaryCarol Tracy - Media Specialist, VirtualEDULorne Kelly-Collins - TechEd teacher at Hopkins High SchoolResources: HEF’s Special Appeal - Fueling Future MindsCoding Resources for Caregivers:Code.org (for parents/caregivers to learn alongside their children) Scratch and Scratch Jr.CSUnpluggedMidJourney

In Hopkins, we call ourselves an E-12+ system because we know and believe that early childhood learning is an essential component of the school experience. In this discussion, we explore why those early years are so crucial for child development. According to our guests, it is in early childhood and through preschool programs that students develop a love of learning and begin to develop skills like curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Early childhood provides community and connection to our families. In Hopkins, preschool programs are offered in all of our in-person elementary schools, creating a sense of belonging for little ones and setting the stage for positive school experiences. In this episode, we also discuss early childhood special education. Across the country, we are seeing an increase in students under the age of five who qualify for services. We discuss the reasons for this and also the ways in which Hopkins is meeting the needs of all scholars.Guests:Sara Chovan, Early Learning Assistant DirectorKathy Willett, Preschool SupervisorJennifer Muller, Early Childhood Special Education Lead and TeacherResource LinksHopkins Preschool Enrollment for 2024-25(Opens in late February through March) Hopkins Early Childhood Family EducationHopkins Early Childhood Special Education Hopkins Early Childhood ScreeningSpanish Immersion Preschool in Hopkins

There is no such thing as a “math brain.” And yet, it’s common for people to say, “I am not a math person.” According to our guests, you ARE a math person. Everyone is. In this episode, we explore people’s unique relationship with math and offer strategies for addressing math phobia. Math is more than simply ticking the boxes and moving on. Hopkins educators integrate creativity and conceptual learning into math, encouraging scholars to embrace mistakes and acknowledge the multiple perspectives within a math context. Our guests delve into the tangible benefits and potential drawbacks of accelerating math education, shedding light on the essential math skills scholars will need for the future. Whether you loved this subject as a child or not, this episode will have you rethinking your relationship with math.Guests:Matthew Bruflodt, Hopkins High School Math TeacherElse Goll, Personalized Math SpecialistSara Lacey, West Middle School Math Teacher Resource Links: Boaler, J. (2022). Mathematical Mindsets: Unleashing Students' Potential through Creative Mathematics, Inspiring Messages and Innovative Teaching. Jossey-Bass.Boaler, J. (2015). What's Math Got to Do with It?: How Teachers and Parents Can Transform Mathematics Learning and Inspire Success. Penguin Books. Stanford University (2024). YouCubed. (https://www.youcubed.org/) Liljedahl, P. (2020). Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Grades K-12. Corwin. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (2014). Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All. NCTM.

Hopkins has two language immersion programs - Spanish Immersion and Chinese Immersion. At Eisenhower Elementary, these two pathways operate alongside an English pathway with a robust International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) framework connecting concepts and curriculum. Hopkins’ immersion programs follow a 90/10 model, meaning 90 percent of the content is Spanish or Chinese with English being introduced, or reinforced as biliteracy comes naturally to many students, in third-grade. In this episode, we explore how learning a second language builds critical thinking and cultural competency in young children, the learning transference that occurs when you learn multiple languages, and the impact of the READ Act on immersion education. Guests:Melissa Ness, Principal of Eisenhower ElementaryPamela Shrestha, second-grade Spanish immersion teacher Yuqi Li, fifth-grade Chinese immersion teacher Resources:READ ActInternational BaccalaureateChinese Immersion Spanish Immersion

This teaser provides a sneak peek into our upcoming podcast episode focusing on our Chinese and Spanish language immersion programs within Hopkins Public Schools. As the holiday season unfolds, we're taking a brief pause to recharge our podcasting spirits. Join us back on January 11 as we venture into the captivating world of language immersion education.Resources:Learn More About Our Chinese and Spanish Immersion Programs

In our last episode of 2023, we explore the development of our Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Hopkins High School. The program will be offered in January in a state-of-the-art lab at the high school designed to simulate a hospital setting. The program not only offers real-world experience in the medical field, it also offers scholars CNA certification - a value of around $1,500. Scholars who enroll in this class will spend time in this simulated clinical setting and an actual clinical setting, offering them critical thinking skills, deep perspective, and empathy. Thank you to the Hopkins Education Foundation for helping support this important and relevant class.Guests:Kara LeVahn, Career and Tech Ed. Coordinator, Hopkins High SchoolMarit Lee-Dohse, B.S. M.S. NA-R, Health Science Educator, Hopkins High SchoolResources: Medical Careers Class at Hopkins High SchoolHopkins Education Foundation

In this episode, we dive into the immersive outdoor education program at Gatewood Elementary. Discover how this innovative curriculum not only connects children with the environment, but also enhances academic skills, fosters teamwork, and ignites a lifelong love for the outdoors.Guests:Dr. George Nolan, principal, Gatewood ElementaryEllen Dischinger, Kindergarten teacher, Gatewood Elementary

In this episode of Inside Hopkins, join our host, Superintendent Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed, in a thoughtful conversation with Laura Jensen, the dedicated LGBTQ+ Community Liaison for our school district. Diving into the heart of inclusivity and diversity, this episode sheds light on the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community within Hopkins Public Schools.Guest: Laura JensenReading Teacher, North Middle SchoolGender & Sexuality Alliance AdvisorHopkins Schools LGBTQ+ Community Liaison

In this episode, we take you on a fascinating journey through the Science of Reading and the transformative impact of LETRS training at Hopkins Public Schools. Join us as we speak with Hopkins experts and educators who are contributing to a brighter future for scholars through the power of effective literacy instruction.Guests: Anne Baird, Elementary Instructional Coach, Tanglen ElementaryLori O’Neil, 2nd Grade Teacher, Tanglen ElementaryNakiya and Raven, Students, Tanglen ElementaryResources:Watch - The Science of Reading at Hopkins

Many schools across the nation were built in the industrial age to prepare students for factory work. We know this is an outdated model, and redesigning schools is a complex task. What should schools of the future physically look like, and what are the steps we can take to get there? In this episode, we dive into the future of education by exploring the present state of our schools and the adjustments we could make to promote a more modern style of education. We also discuss a visionary collaboration between Fielding International, an award-winning international educational design firm, and Hopkins Public Schools.Guests: Randy Fielding, AIA, Founding Principal, Fielding InternationalJulius Eromosele, Principal, Hopkins North Middle SchoolResources:Breaking the moldFielding International

Hopkins High School prioritizes post-secondary success through the Royals College and Career Center (RCCC), funded by the Hopkins Education Foundation and led by Dr. Michelle Kuhl. The RCCC offers integrated programs and personalized support, helping students explore their future paths and navigate systems for success, while fostering intentional post-graduation planning.Guest: Dr. Michelle Kuhl, College and Career Readiness Coordinator, Hopkins High SchoolBackground Reading: Preparing Hopkins Students for Post-Secondary Success

Freedom School provides research based and multi-cultural curriculum for scholars and their families. Paris Timmons, Executive Director of Freedom School at Hopkins, shares the history, impact, and vision that Freedom School brings to our community.Guest: Paris Timmons, Summer and Extended Learning Coordinator, Executive Director of Freedom School – Hopkins Public SchoolsBackground reading and watching:Watch the Freedom School overview video.Read more information on Freedom School at Hopkins and learn how to enroll.

Welcome to Inside Hopkins, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of the Hopkins Public School District! Join us as we explore the heart and soul of our community's educational system, uncovering the inspiring stories, innovative programs, and dedicated individuals that make Hopkins a hub of educational excellence.Every first and third Thursday of the month. Staring September 21.