RCPS Community Partner Cafe

Summer is a great time for students to relax and recharge, but it is also a meaningful opportunity to keep reading in ways that feel fun and manageable.   In this episode, host Katie LaPira is joined by three RCPS librarians: Margaret Alger from Riverbend Elementary School, Mary Sonifrank from J. Frank Hillyard Middle School, and Tim Mumbauer from Turner Ashby High School. The three RCPS librarians discuss how families can encourage summer reading for students in elementary, middle, and high school, and they share resources available to student  to keep their reading momentum going.    Additionally, Margaret, Mary, and Tim share tips for building a love of reading in young children, supporting middle school readers as they explore new formats and genres, and helping high school students continue reading for enjoyment even when life gets busy. They also discuss the value of audiobooks, graphic novels, manga, books in verse, and giving students choice in what they read.    Families will come away with simple, encouraging ideas for helping students stay connected to books all summer long.

What does it really mean to build a culture of service in our schools? How can these experiences be not just a one-time event, but something more integrated that students carry with them?    In this episode, Katie LaPira talks with Kim Davidson and Misty Newman from James Madison University’s Community Engagement and Volunteer Center about how service can move from a checklist to a mindset. They explore the idea of students as collaborators and contributors, the importance of listening to community partners, and how meaningful engagement can shape students’ academic paths, career interests, and sense of purpose.   Kim and Misty offer practical ways schools can begin to embed service into everyday learning, from early exposure in elementary school to leadership opportunities in high school. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community partner, you’ll walk away with ideas for helping students see themselves as part of something bigger, and how small, intentional steps can lead to lasting impact.

What does it look like when students learn to communicate in more than one way?   In this episode, your host Katie LaPira talks with Lacey Spring Elementary principal Tammy May and JMU professor Melissa Nguyen about bringing American Sign Language (ASL) into elementary classrooms. They share how even young learners can begin building communication skills through movement, expression, and visual language. Melissa and Tammy also share about how ASL supports inclusion, confidence, and meaningful connections across the school community.   From supporting reading development to helping students connect across classrooms, and even across different abilities, this conversation highlights how ASL is opening new doors for RCPS students.    Families will also hear simple ways to practice at home and how this initiative could grow in the years ahead, making communication more accessible for everyone in our community.   Mentioned in the Episode: Nyle DiMarco’s TED Talk: Making Education Accessible to Deaf Children 

What should families know about RCPS pre-K? Who is eligible, and how can those early school experiences help set the stage for long-term success?   In this episode of the RCPS Community Partner Café, host Katie LaPira sits down with Michele Judd, RCPS Director of Federal Programs, and Blair Harper, principal at River Bend Elementary, to talk about the RCPS pre-K program. Michele and Blair explain who the program is designed to support, how families can apply, and what children experience in those first classroom days, from play-based learning and early literacy skills to building friendships and confidence.   Whether you’re exploring pre-K for the first time or preparing for kindergarten in the near future, this conversation offers helpful insight into how RCPS supports young learners and their families.    Learn more about eligibility, application timelines, and how these early years help children build the skills they need for a successful start in school. Check out these resources for more information:   https://www.rcps.net/page/prek-k https://www.rcps.net/o/rcps/page/preschool

What does it look like when a school division and a university come together to rethink how high school works? In this episode of the RCPS Community Partner Café, host Katie LaPira sits down with Dr. Donica Hadley, Executive Director of the JMU Lab School, to explore how this innovative partnership between Rockingham County Public Schools and James Madison University is creating new learning opportunities for students.   Dr. Hadley shares how the Lab School model emphasizes interdisciplinary, project-based learning, student voice, and real-world problem solving, while still meeting graduation requirements. Katie and Donica explore the way that the classes work at each grade level.   The conversation also highlights the role of community partners, and Dr. Hadley explains how families can learn more about whether the Lab School might be a good fit for their students. This episode offers a thoughtful look at how collaboration and innovation can help prepare students for life beyond high school.   The application for RCPS students who would like to participate in the Lab School simply involves students submitting their names and addresses, and the application window will be open from March 30 to April 30. 

In light of the winter weather conditions we're navigating, we wanted to reshare this episode from 2024 with Director of Transportation Chris Sours.   What happens when weather events cause potential school disruptions? In today’s episode of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, Chris Sours talks with host Katie LaPira to share what goes into making weather-related decisions for RCPS. Chris gives listeners a glimpse behind the scenes into what happens when weather events impact Rockingham County.    Listen in to hear what makes RCPS unique and how decisions about delays and closures are made when weather impacts travel. As Chris shares, the safety of RCPS students and employees is the focus of every decision made. Learn about the process RCPS uses when determining whether a delay or closure is needed because of weather-related events. 

What does it really look like to support new teachers in their first year? In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with supervisor Stephanie Failes and a panel of RCPS mentor teachers to walk us through the New Teacher Mentor Program, including who it serves, why it matters, and how it helps year zero teachers feel confident and connected from day one.    You’ll hear how teacher mentors offer non-evaluative, just-in-time support: classroom set-up tips, tech tools, lesson planning, co-teaching, and practical guidance for milestones like grades and conferences.   RCPS families and community partners will also hear how this program builds relationships that last through on-campus visits, collaboration with mentor teachers/ ITRTs, and community meet-ups (yes, even ice cream socials!).    If you’re curious about how RCPS invests in great teaching, and why so many educators choose to build their careers here, this conversation shows the care behind the classroom. Learn more at RCPS.net.

October is Bullying Prevention Month, and RCPS is joining schools across the nation to shine a light on this important issue. In this episode, Katie welcomes Dr. Emily Holloway to share what families and community members need to know about recognizing, reporting, and preventing bullying.   Together, Katie and Emily discuss the difference between bullying and everyday conflict, the warning signs adults should look for, and how bystanders can become upstanders who make a positive impact.    Tune in to hear how our schools, families, and community can work hand in hand to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and valued.   For more information visit: https://www.rcps.net/page/support-services 

Have a student gearing up for fall sports or thinking about joining a team or activity? Your host Katie LaPira welcomes back VHSL Supervisor Eric Baylor to explain what families need to know right now. Eric highlights the upcoming ninth grade live-in-zone eligibility rule (effective July 1, 2026), the new 14-month physical timeline, the heat index safety policy, and the enforcement of long-standing limits on out-of-zone eighth graders playing JV.   Plus, we get a look at what’s happening across RCPS this fall, from packed football stands to early-running golf, spirited theater productions, eSports, and more. Planning to attend? Remember the clear bag policy at outdoor events, follow your school’s posted guidelines, and come on out. If your student is on the fence about participating, give it a shot this season.

How do extracurriculars shape student success, and what’s ahead for RCPS activities?   In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with Eric Baylor, RCPS’s new Supervisor of VHSL Activities, to reflect on a standout year for student athletics and co-curricular activities.    From multiple state championships to the growing popularity of esports, Eric shares highlights from across the division, his perspective as a former coach and principal, and the life lessons students gain from being part of a team, whether on the field, on the stage, or behind a screen.   This conversation is a great listen for parents, caregivers, and community members who want to understand how activities build community, strengthen school spirit, and help students thrive beyond the classroom. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming this fall!

What does it take to lead a school today—and how is that changing? In this episode, Dr. Amy Painter, Chief Human Resources Officer for Rockingham County Public Schools, joins us to talk about what makes an effective school leader in today’s climate. Drawing from her experience as both a principal and an HR leader, Dr. Painter shares how RCPS approaches hiring and supporting principals during times of transition, and what qualities are most essential in school leadership today.   If you’re a parent or community member curious about what’s happening behind the scenes in our schools, this episode offers a valuable look into how RCPS supports strong, steady leadership for students and staff.

How exactly are public schools funded—and where does all the money actually go? In this episode, Katie is joined by Justin Moyers, Chief Financial Officer for Rockingham County Public Schools, to break down the myths and realities of school budgeting. They discuss where funding comes from (and where it doesn’t), what makes up the largest expenses, and how local, state, and federal sources all play a role in what RCPS is able to offer students.   Justin explains how RCPS balances its budget year after year, and why many people are surprised by the hidden costs of running a school district. Katie and Justin also talk about teacher salaries, what benefits really cost, and why some extracurricular programs rely heavily on fundraising. If you’ve ever wondered how budget decisions get made—or how to advocate for the programs that matter most to your family—this episode offers a clear and practical window into the process.   To learn more, check out https://www.rcps.net/page/finance-office.

Professional development is an essential part of education, but how do we ensure it’s meaningful, relevant, and engaging for teachers? In this episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with Donna Abernathy, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation and Learning, to discuss how Rockingham County Public Schools is reimagining professional development—designed by educators, for educators. Donna shares how RCPS is prioritizing teacher choice, hands-on learning, and peer-led sessions through the upcoming Rockingham Learns for Life conference. Learn how this new approach is shaping professional growth across the district, why teacher-led PD is a game-changer, and how you can get involved. We are now accepting proposals for the Rockingham Learns for Life 2025 Conference, held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at East Rockingham High School & River Bend Elementary. Sessions will be one hour and should provide interactive, actionable strategies for educators. Proposals should align with the conference goals: Academic Excellence, Serving Diverse Learners, and Mental & Behavioral Wellbeing, reflecting the RCPS Comprehensive Plan (2024-2029). Submit your proposal here: Proposal Form. Conference planners will review applications throughout the spring. Tune in to learn how this new initiative is shaping the future of professional growth in RCPS.

How can a student-run news network impact an entire school community? In this episode of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, we go behind the scenes of Broadway High School’s Gobbler News Network (GNN) with Broadway seniors Elijah and Leslie. From scriptwriting to live broadcasts, they share with host Katie LaPira about how this student-run program keeps their peers informed and engaged.   Elijah and Leslie discuss what makes GNN different from traditional school announcements. They share the skills they’ve gained, and how the program has influenced their career aspirations. Plus, hear about their most memorable broadcasts—including a campaign to bring back the beloved baked potato bar!   Tune in to learn how GNN is giving students a voice, building technical skills, and fostering a deeper connection with their school community.   Follow GNN to see their work!   Check them out on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.    Check out the “Return of Strut” video mentioned in the episode.

What does it take to feed over 11,000 students every day? In this episode, Katie LaPira sits down with Jennifer Williams, Director of Food and Nutrition Services, to discuss the behind-the-scenes work that keeps Rockingham County students well-fed. Jennifer shares how her team of over 100 staff prepares meals across 23 schools, incorporates locally-sourced ingredients, and meets federal nutrition guidelines—all while accommodating dietary needs. Jennifer also highlights the benefits of connecting students to local farms, explains how the free and reduced lunch program works, and provides tips for how parents and community members can support school nutrition efforts.  Listen in to learn more about the amazing system that keeps our 11,600 RCPS students fed. This episode is packed with insights into the care and strategy that go into serving nutritious meals every day.

What’s next for Rockingham County Public Schools? In this milestone 20th episode of the RCPS Community Partner Cafe, host Katie LaPira chats with Superintendent Dr. Larry Shifflett to discuss the district’s proposed comprehensive plan for 2024 to 2029. This proposed roadmap is designed to shape the future of education, safety, and community engagement in Rockingham County.    Dr. Shifflett unpacks the six key focus areas of the plan: school safety, academic excellence, employee recruitment and retention, community engagement, student behavioral health, and stewardship. Together, Katie and Dr. Shifflett explore the district’s ambitious goals for these areas and how they benefit students, families, and the broader community.    Tune in to learn how RCPS is preparing for the next five years and discover how this comprehensive plan will foster growth, well-being, and success for every student in the district. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of our schools.  

How can schools create a safe, supportive environment where every student feels seen and valued? Host Katie LaPira welcomes Liza Coffman, Director of Student Support Services for Rockingham County Schools, to discuss how RCPS supports students' behavioral and emotional needs. Katie and Liza explore RCPS’s three-tiered system for student support. Liza explains her role in overseeing the programs that focus on behavior support and crisis prevention and walks us through the responsibilities of key staff members who help provide those supports.   Tune in to hear how RCPS staff, families, and community partners work together to ensure that students feel safe and supported, and learn about upcoming initiatives and resources available to families across the district. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating a nurturing school environment.

What is RCPS doing to help prioritize safety? In today’s episode, host Katie LaPira sits down with Caleb Bailey, the newly appointed Director of School Safety and Security for Rockingham County Public Schools. Caleb shares insights from his extensive background in emergency response and discusses the comprehensive steps he's taking to elevate safety within the school system, including the introduction of cutting-edge technology, partnerships with local law enforcement, and an emphasis on ongoing training.   Caleb shares a comprehensive approach to emergency management that focuses on prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. He highlights the use of modern technology for real-time communication during potential threats and emphasizes the importance of clear, transparent crisis management with both parents and the broader community. Caleb’s forward-thinking strategies aim to create a safer and more secure environment for students and staff alike.   Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, this conversation provides valuable insights into how RCPS is creating a secure and supportive environment for all.

What happens when working hard still isn’t enough to make ends meet? United Way is here to help our community. In today's episode, your host Katie LaPira explores the vital work of the United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, an organization dedicated to empowering all community members, including those who often find themselves barely making ends meet.   Katie talks with Jo Benjamin, Director of Community Impact, and Jim Sacco, Director of Development, about the innovative programs and initiatives they lead, which are designed to help our community’s most vulnerable members. Join us as we explore how United Way’s efforts, from their Rockburg CARES Network to the impactful Tools for Schools initiative, are making a tangible difference for families in our area.   Listen in to hear how community collaboration, volunteerism, and strategic support can help working households not just survive but thrive. Whether you're looking to get involved or seeking assistance, you won't want to miss this important conversation.   Important Links: Learn more about the United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham: https://uwhr.org/  Do you qualify as ALICE? Fill out the status tool to find out: https://uwhr.org/amialice  Want to get involved? Learn more: https://uwhr.org/get-involved  Learn more about Rockingham County Public Schools at rcps.net. https://www.rcps.net/ 

Are you curious about what is new in RCPS this school year? In episode 16 of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, host Katie LaPira answers community questions and shares important updates for the upcoming school year. From back-to-school nights to enrollment procedures, Katie provides all the essential information families need to get ready for the new academic year. Katie also highlights the vital role of community partnerships in supporting our schools, particularly the United Way of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County's "Tools for Schools" event.  Listen in to learn about important back-to-school dates, how to access supply lists, and important enrollment details to make sure that you are ready for the 2024-2025 school year. Hear how you can stay connected with the new RCPS app, register for the Tools for Schools event, and make the most of the new school year's opportunities. Check out the links below for more about all of the important resources mentioned in this episode. Important RCPS Links:    Health forms and calendars: https://rockinghamcountypsva.sites.thrillshare.com/page/families-students    Sign up here for RCPS text notifications: https://www.rcps.net/o/rcps/page/notification-sign-up   Enrollment page: https://rockinghamcountypsva.sites.thrillshare.com/o/rcps/page/student-enrollment   RCPS Rooms App: https://rockinghamcountypsva.sites.thrillshare.com/o/rcps/page/rooms-support   Learn More and Pre-Register for Tools for Schools: https://uwhr.org/toolsforschool

Are you wondering how to keep your child's brain active and engaged during the summer break? Listen in to hear the benefits of reading in the summer as host Katie LaPira sits down with Kim Tate, the Language Arts and Library Supervisor for Rockingham County Public Schools, to discuss how powerful reading can be. Kim provides practical advice on making summer reading an enjoyable and integral part of family life. Kim and Katie discuss the importance of allowing children to choose their own books, exploring different formats such as audiobooks, and setting aside family reading time.   Tune in to discover various community resources and opportunities, from the Massanutten Regional Library's summer reading program to fun incentives offered by local businesses, all designed to keep young readers engaged and excited about reading. Whether your child is just beginning to read or is a seasoned bookworm, this episode is packed with tips and ideas to inspire a summer full of literary adventures.   For more information, check out rcps.net! 

Are you curious about STEM and science activities in our schools? Today, host Katie LaPira chats with Tammy Stone, the Science, STEM, and Challenge Supervisor for Rockingham County Public Schools. Tammy shares exciting insights into the hands-on learning experiences of RCPS students.   From dissecting owl pellets to exploring watershed ecosystems, students of all ages experience captivating activities that bring science to life. Listen in to hear how STEM education isn't confined to the classroom, but extends into engaging programs where students explore the science of cooking, force in motion experiments, and even solar challenges.   With a commitment to fostering the next generation of teachers through initiatives in STEM and science, Rockingham County Public Schools ensures students are not only prepared academically but also equipped with essential soft skills for future success.   For more from RCPS, check out rcps.net.

How do the fine arts integrate into the social and brain development of our students? What initiatives does RCPS have that strengthen opportunities for our students? Listen in as host Katie LaPira talks with guest Becky Ford, Supervisor of the Fine Arts for RCPS.   Becky shares with Katie about the integral ways that RCPS incorporates the fine arts into student education, and she talks about what kinds of opportunities RCPS students have at each level. Becky and Katie talk about initiatives available to RCPS students such as Any Given Child, and they discuss ways parents and community partners can support the arts and their student.   For more about Any Given Child, check out the Kennedy Center website: https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/networks-conferences-and-research/networks-and-strategic-leadership/any-given-child/ For more from RCPS, check out rcps.net.

Are you wondering about how to help your child with math? Today’s guest Amanda Rickard, Supervisor of Math with Rockingham County Public Schools, joins host Katie LaPira to talk about the new math standards and actionable steps family members can take to support our students in math.    Amanda talks about how math instruction has evolved over time and the benefit of the current approach. Listen in to hear practical tips about ways that you can help the RCPS students in your life to succeed in math. Amanda shares steps students of all levels can take to be successful.

What happens when weather events cause potential school disruptions? In today’s episode of RCPS Community Partner Cafe, Director of Transportation Chris Sours talks with host Katie LaPira to share what goes into making weather-related decisions for RCPS. Chris gives listeners a glimpse behind the scenes into what happens when weather events impact Rockingham County.    Listen in to hear what makes RCPS unique and how decisions about delays and closures are made when weather impacts travel. As Chris shares, the safety of RCPS students and employees is the focus of every decision made. Learn about the process RCPS uses when determining whether a delay or closure is needed because of weather-related events. 

How does RCPS help students prepare for their next steps after high school? In this special episode, student host Leo Johnson talks with two RCPS seniors about their plans after high school. Leo, Clayton, and James reflect on their time in RCPS, share what helped them along their current paths, and provide tips for students and parents looking to get more involved.   Leo talks with seniors James and Clayton about what each of them plans to do after high school, and they share how they reached those decisions about their career paths. The RCPS seniors also have fun envisioning changes that could enhance the student experience. Don’t miss this outstanding episode featuring three RCPS seniors, and listen in to hear the highlights of their experiences.  

What can career coaches do to help RCPS high school students? RCPS career coaches Jessica Baker and Liz Whiston-Dean join Katie LaPira and Donna Delisle to share about how career coaches at the RCPS high schools can support all students with their pathways after high school.    As Liz and Jessica share, they can help students with activities such as identifying interests and career opportunities that align with those interests as well as making future plans, gathering materials for applications, and support with financial aid applications. Jessica and Liz share how parents and guardians can best support students on this journey, and their advice will help make the journey a smooth and empowering one for students. Listen in to hear their tips and how they can best support your student. 

How can we better support our children in middle and high school? In this episode, middle school counselor Laura Ogden and high school counselor Sandy King join Katie and Donna to share about the unique challenges and opportunities that middle and high school students face and how parents and guardians can provide support.   Laura and Sandy share insights about these specific time periods for students, and they let us know how we as a community and as individual caretakers can better support the young people going through middle and high school transitions. 

Are you wondering how to help your elementary school child with school transitions as we settle into a new school year? Listen in to hear RCPS elementary guidance counselor Lindsey Bateman share tips and tricks for parents and family members to use to help our younger children navigate the changes that come with the start of school.    Lindsey shares simple actions caretakers can take to help our elementary school students with their emotions and with socialization. Just by assisting young children in identifying their emotions, openly sharing our own feelings, and reassuring children of all ages that it's perfectly normal to experience any emotion they're feeling, we can significantly aid them during times of change.   Lindsey reminds us that families are the first teachers, and we can make a positive difference for our children during transitions and throughout the school year. Listen in to hear practical tips! 

What can parents and caregivers do to help students enhance their cognitive abilities? Although learning about the brain can be complex, the steps parents and caregivers can take to help with cognitive development can be quite simple.   RCPS school psychologist Dr. Phil Wickline shares with host Donna DeLisle about cognitive functioning, developing background knowledge, inspiring creativity, and considering the impact of technology. Donna and Phil discuss what parents can do to help support optimal cognitive abilities and brain development for their children. Phil also shares about the role anxiety can play when it comes to learning and shares simple steps parents can take to help kids manage anxiety.

What will the first one hundred days look like with the new RCPS superintendent, Dr. Larry Shifflett? In episode 5 of RCPS Community Partner Café, your host Katie LaPira talks with Dr. Shifflett about his plans for the first one hundred days in his time as the new superintendent of Rockingham County Public Schools.   Dr. Shifflett shares about his plan, which focuses on excellence, integrity, and inclusion of all students. He also shares about the four goals he has for the '23-'24 school year and beyond and the ways that he plans to involve all RCPS partners in that planning. Listen in to hear Dr. Shifflett’s plans and goals for the RCPS community during this transition.    More information about the plan can be found at https://www.rcps.net/en-US/superintendent-e41f0da9.

Do you know the role of school nurses and the vital role they play within our school communities?  In this timely episode, your hosts Katie LaPira and Donna Delisle talk with Ashley Houff and Myra Hensley about the way that school nurses have become an important part of school communities and how those roles have changed over time.    Listen in to hear helpful tips for maintaining strong communication with school nurses and the larger medical community. Check out the practical advice about when to keep children home from school and when to send them back as well as how to handle yearly appointments and physicals for sports. 

Do you know what services are available to your student with an IEP or a 504 plan? Do you know how to get support for a student who could qualify for special services but has not yet been assessed?   In this informative episode, special education experts Sarah Fawley and Melissa Bentley join your hosts Donna Delisle and Katie LaPira to share about special education support services.   Melissa shares a brief history of the laws that led to where we are today with IEPs and 504 plans for students, and Melissa talks about ways that students who qualify for services can be identified and assessed for services. Sarah shares about what special education services can look like for students in middle and high school as they plan for their future and what partnerships can support students on that journey.   Sarah and Melissa share about how community partners such as the Infant Toddler Connection, Massanutten Technical Center, the Community Services Board, DARS (Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services), and VAIL (the Valley Association for Independent Living) help students and families navigate individual challenges and needs.   Listen in to hear about ways that you can get support for the child in your life.

What do you know about how public education came to the United States? In this episode, Donna Delisle talks with RCPS Social Studies Supervisor Beau Dickenson about the history of public education in the US and specifically in Virginia. With a grounding in major historical events, historian Beau Dickenson reflects on the beginning of American public education, how it has evolved, and how it looks today going into the future.    As Beau shares in the episode, Rockingham County Public Schools were founded in 1876 as a result of changing legislation as Virginia rejoined the Union. Beau talks about the progression of public education, in the US and specifically in Virginia, beginning with the founding of the United States and moving through the Civil Rights era continuing into present day.    Be sure to check out this fascinating episode where Donna and Beau reflect on the power of public education in Virginia. 

Are you looking for ways to better support your child? In this episode, Katie LaPira, RCPS Coordinator of Community Engagement, talks with RCPS social workers including Donna Delisle, Ashlea Link, and Alexis Dovel, who share about specific challenges for each age group and what you as parents and guardians can do to best support your children as they grow and develop socially and emotionally.   Listen in to hear these tips about friend groups, social media, email etiquette, and other common struggles that your child may be facing. 

Listen to the RCPS Community Partner Café with your host Katie LaPira of Rockingham County Public Schools in Virginia.   As Katie shares in the trailer, this podcast focuses on achieving the RCPS mission to empower all learners through conversations with guests who work within the RCPS schools and community. Subscribe to stay current and to hear new episodes.