Rossford Schools Podcast

It's a bittersweet week in Rossford as we say goodbye to Officer Jodi! We sit down with her to look back on her impactful career, find out what she'll miss most, and hear her words of wisdom for Officer Socie ahead of his move to the Jr-Sr High School. Finally, we celebrate the arrival of Officer Trey Farabee, who will be taking over as the new Rossford Elementary SRO.

Class of 2026 graduate Justynne Jones is still representing Rossford as she heads to Richmond, Virginia, next week to compete at the National Speech & Debate Tournament. In this episode, Justynne reflects on her growth in speech and debate, her journey to qualifying for nationals, the topic of her speech and what she's most excited about as she prepares for the competition. Speech and Debate Advisor Shelley Bertsch also joins the conversation to share how she has seen Justynne develop as a competitor and leader while discussing the continued growth of the program.

Hear from Mr. Taylor as he reflects on his career at Rossford Elementary, shares what he’s most proud of and talks about his retirement plans. Assistant Principal Dawn Heck also joins the conversation to ask for advice and discuss her plans as the school’s next principal. Thank you for everything Mr. Taylor!

In this episode, we sit down with Camryn Almester and Chloe Nevins to celebrate their incredible second-place finish in the State Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making competition. From the high-pressure environment of State to their upcoming trip to DECA Nationals in Atlanta, the duo shares what the competition looks like, how the work together for it, and what they’re most excited for in Atlanta.

In this episode of the Rossford Schools Podcast, we sit down with new treasurer Joe Corfman to learn more about his background, what brought him to Rossford, and his goals for the district.

The Rossford High School Drama Club is bringing Monty Python's Spamalot: School Edition to the stage, and in this episode we go behind the scenes of the production. Based on the comedy classic Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical follows King Arthur and his knights on a hilarious quest packed with memorable songs, big dance numbers and plenty of unexpected moments.We sat down with the show’s director and five senior cast members to talk about the rehearsal process, what makes this musical so fun to perform and what it means the drama club has meant to these seniors.Performances take place at Rossford High School on Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m., Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 21 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available at the door. Join us for a fun conversation and get a preview of why you won’t want to miss this year’s show.

What does it take to bring a giant monster ninja to life? In this episode, we sit down with RHS alumni and parent Scoot McMahon to celebrate the release of his new book, Ninja Kaiju.Scoot takes us behind the scenes of the book-making process, from the initial spark of the idea to the detailed work of designing characters and the cover. He also shares heartwarming stories about the teachers who inspired his journey and why he’s a passionate supporter of Right to Read Week.Support the Book:Buy Online: Get Ninja Kaiju (Hardcover, Softcover, or Digital) directly from the publisher: Papercutz ShopShop Local: Signed copies are available at Gather Volumes bookstore in Perrysburg!

RHS Senior Leah Matthews is raising money for YIPEE (Youth In Philanthropy Encouraging Excellence) to help local non profit organizations such as Toledo Grows which is near and dear to her heart. She discusses how she got connected with YIPEE, how she helps Toledo Grows and her drive for environmental naturalization in this podcast episode. Here is how you can donate to help YIPEE:Online:1. Visit https://toledocf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list2. In the search bar, type "YIPEE" and select the auto-populated YIPEE Fund option.3. Follow the remaining prompts to complete the transaction.4. Please include Leah Matthews' name in the "additional notes" section.Check:1. Make your check payable to Greater Toledo Community Foundation with YIPEE on the memo line.2. Mail the check to:Greater Toledo Community Foundation300 Madison Ave., Suite 1300Toledo, OH 43604

In the first half of the episode, Mr. Dorn and Mrs. Hood check in with four campers to hear how the week is going. Then they stick around for the second half to share highlights, feedback from students, and a closer look at the activities. (Thanks for your patience with a few audio issues in the second half.) Students are having a great time!

History was made on the hardwood last month! In this episode, we sit down with Alex Swartz to recap her record-breaking rebounding performance. Plus, Girls Basketball Coach Toby Ledesma joins the conversation to discuss Alex's work ethic, the team's chemistry and their goals for the remainder of the season.

Hear from our new School Social Worker, Regan Findling, in this Rossford Schools Podcast. She shares why she chose Rossford, what she’s already working on and how families can connect with important resources. Mrs. Findling also talks about the passion behind her work and what she’s thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Go behind the scenes with the RHS Drama Club! Hear from the Director and cast of their hilarious comedy/mystery, "This Murder was Staged," as they prepare for opening night. Students discuss their favorite scenes, the unique challenge of having multiple endings, and the fun of bringing this whodunit to life. Don't miss the show this weekend in the RHS Auditorium! Shows are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

This year, Rossford Schools launched Character Strong, a new social-emotional learning program for all grade levels. In this episode, our school psychologists share what Character Strong is all about, what lessons look like in classrooms, and how it helps students build important life skills.

Board Member Dawn Burks and RHS English Teacher Amy Kanney join the Rossford Schools Podcast to talk about our new initiative, Press Paws. Dawn introduces the FACE Committee she helped bring to Rossford, and together they explain how Press Paws encourages families to unplug, spend time together, and celebrate quality family moments. We’d love to see how your family is “Pressing Paws”! Email photos to [email protected], and we’ll share them.

Rossford Jr.-Sr. High School is hosting a service-learning event, Feed My Starving Children, on October 19 and 20. During this event, students and community members will pack meals for undernourished children in more than 100 countries worldwide. On October 20, junior high students will participate during the school day. The evening before, October 19, the Rossford community is invited to pack meals from 6:30–8:30 p.m. (sign up here: https://give.fmsc.org/rossford). In this episode, Dr. Neiderhouse shares more about the program, its impact, and the importance of service learning.

Senior Phoenix Erel joins us to talk about his summer at Buckeye Boys State, a weeklong program that gives students a hands-on look at leadership and government. Phoenix shares how the experience taught him the value of self-discipline, respect, and understanding different government roles — lessons he’s carrying into his senior year and beyond.

We welcome new RHS Athletic Director Mark German to the Rossford Schools team. In this episode, Mr. German talks about why he chose Rossford, what he hopes to implement as AD, which professional teams he follows, and more.

RHS Class of 2014 graduate Ocean Alvarado has found his groove in the unpredictable world of improv. From starting with Glass City Improv to launching his own showcases, Ocean is all-in on the wild, fast, and unforgettable improv scene. Hear how he got started, what keeps him coming back, and what it really takes to thrive on stage without a script. Catch Ocean live at upcoming shows: glasscityimprov.com or cupsofart.com. 

In this episode of the Rossford Schools Podcast, we talk with Class of 2025 Valedictorian Grant Eckel. He shares how becoming valedictorian has been his goal since sixth grade, how he’s preparing his graduation speech, reflections on the Class of 2025, and his plans after graduation. Tune in!

In this episode of the Rossford Schools Podcast, we sit down with Band Directors Justin Kelley and Rachel Petrie, along with Wind Ensemble members Camille Harmon and Dana Chen. With the ensemble heading to state competition in Findlay on Friday, we caught up with the group to hear how they're preparing for the big day. They share what to expect at the competition, how they manage nerves, what it takes to make the Wind Ensemble, and why this group has been so successful.

Hear from Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Blackwood as he speaks to Rossford Jr.-Sr. High School juniors and seniors during his Drive to Live presentation. The episode includes real stories and key statistics about safe driving habits—like wearing seat belts and the dangers of distracted driving. Plus, we recognize four students who were honored for their creative contributions to a local Billboard Contest promoting safe driving awareness.

Rossford Jr.-Sr. High School Principal Dr. Neiderhouse recently traveled to Washington, D.C., in his role as Federal Relations Coordinator for a statewide administrators association. He shares insights from his visit, the issues he advocated for and why this work is so important to him.

Two student podcasts from our Podcasting Class come together to interview peers and Mrs. Feldcamp about the Northwest Ohio Teen Book Festival, happening Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Rossford Jr.-Sr. High School. Tune in to learn more about this exciting event for avid readers and hear how our students are sharpening their podcasting skills!

We sit down with members of the cast and Director Mrs. Witulski to preview The Drowsy Chaperone, this year’s RHS Drama Spring Musical. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the show’s story, hear about funny rehearsal moments and learn about the unique challenges of bringing this production to life—all before opening night! Showtimes are 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at Rossford Jr-Sr High School! Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors.

In celebration of Right to Read Week, we sit down with RHS alum Scott McMahon (Class of 1999), a professional illustrator, comic creator, and author. He shares how Rossford staff nurtured his artistic talents from a young age, discusses his upcoming projects, and gives us a preview of the upcoming Teen Book Festival. Check out his work at scootcomics.com.

New Rossford Record editor Payton Lechner joins the Rossford Schools Podcast to discuss her vision for our local paper. A Rossford High School alum, Payton shares insights from her time at RHS, reflects on her experiences at the Rossford Library and Cedar Creek Church, and talks about some of her favorite books.

We visit with a few sixth graders and teachers at Camp Michindoh for a glimpse into their Sixth Grade Camp experience! Hear what they're learning, what activities they're enjoying and even a quick rendition of a campfire song. Plus, don’t miss their candid reviews of camp food!

Hear from former Board of Education President Dawn Burks and newly appointed Board President Jackie Huffman on the Rossford Schools Podcast as we celebrate Board Recognition Month. They share the changes and accomplishments they’ve seen in the district since joining the board, what inspired them to run and their vision for the future. Thank you to all of our Board of Education members for your dedication!

Hear from Jessica (Pietrasz) Bush and Margo (Jackson) Schaffer both from the Class of 2014 who are being inducted in the Rossford High School Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday. The 'kindergarten friends' grew up together and talk about their friendship, give advice to students balancing school and sports and tell fun stories.

RHS Varsity Basketball Player Scarlett Williams joins the Rossford Schools Podcast along with her Coach Toby Ledesma to discuss joining the 1,000 point club. Coach Ledesma discusses how Williams has developed as a player and what makes her an elite scorer. Scarlett shares a fun story how she started playing basketball and more.

Hear from two seniors who attended the field trip to the Toledo Museum of Art. They talk about the trip, what they learned and their projects from Rossford High School art classes. Be sure to stop by our Winter Art Exhibit in the Art Gallery spaces during next week's concerts.

Last week, three of our students and a teacher participated as guardians on a Flag City Honor Flight, accompanying veterans on a memorable journey to Washington, D.C. In this week’s Rossford Schools Podcast, we sit down with the students to hear about their experiences visiting monuments, witnessing the Changing of the Guard, and more. You can support future Honor Flights by attending our Serving Our Soldiers Club Pancake Breakfast on April 26, 2025, at Rossford Junior-Senior High School.

The Rossford High School Drama Club is performing two one act plays this weekend at the RHS Auditorium. Hear from our student cast members and set director talk about the shows and funny moments behind the scenes to get ready for the performances this weekend. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors/students. Shows are Thursday-Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

Rossford Elementary School Resource Officer Socie joins the Rossford Schools Podcast to discuss Halloween safety. Biggest things are checking the candy first and making sure you're visible when trick or treating. He also talks about his favorite costume growing up and some more safety tips for Bus Safety Week.

We open the episode hearing the RHS fight song from our marching band during the Homecoming football game. Then we hear some highlights from Rossford Mayor Neil MacKinnon's 2024 Award of Distinction Ceremony. US Representative Marcy Kaptur and State Representative Haraz Ghanbari both speak followed by Superintendent Dan Creps. Then we hear directly from Mayor MacKinnon before our band caps off the episode with our alma mater.

This Rossford Schools Podcast episode spotlights 2021 RHS Class President Jacob Lesick who is a senior at the University of Cincinnati and speaking at a Leadership Toledo event next week. Hear Mr. Lesick discuss Leadership Toledo, being a Bearcat Band drum major, studying national cyber defense and thank Rossford teachers and staff.

It has often been asked are you teaching basic finance/life classes at Rossford High School? The answer is yes! This week we talk to Business (or Life) Teacher Mrs. Sivinski. Her courses include financial literacy, accounting and navigating life to help prepare our high school students for life on their own. Creating a budgets, having a checkbooks, how to buy a car, owing insurance are some of the life skills she teaches. Learn more about what her students are learning and some of their projects... also Mrs. Sivinski is asking for help from the community. If you are a mechanic, banker, insurance agent, business person etc and you think you can teach some basic skills in your field to students reach out to her at [email protected] about possibly visiting her class.

Rossford Elementary School Music Teacher Sally Gardiner joins the Rossford Schools Podcast to discuss her Choir Club and more. Hear about how she teaches vocal techniques to elementary students, her heart for the Veterans Day Assembly and even her own favorite artists.

Just coming back from a vacation? This 8-minute podcast episode is everything you need to know from 2024 summer. This podcast features audio from Summer Drone Camp including STEM Teacher Andrea Iman, students and Mike McArthur from First Solar. Then we introduce new Principal Dr. Nick Neiderhouse and hear from him before learning more about the new Evolv screener at Rossford Jr-Sr High School. Welcome back to school everyone!

In this episode we welcome new Rossford Jr-Sr High School Principal Dr. Nick Neiderhouse. We talk a little bit about his background, his hobbies/interests and why he wanted to come to Rossford. Listen in to hear from our new building leader!

Our Elementary STEM Teacher Andrea Iman is speaking at the Leaders of Innovation Conference this week at Lake Erie West. She talks about lessons from her session titled 'Embracing Failure' in this summer episode of the Rossford Schools Podcast.

We hear from our MakerMinds Club Advisor Maria Pratt about the new club and what it has done in its first few months of existence. This STEM club has done many 3D printing projects, works with coding and more. Mrs. Pratt also discusses how the students have empathy behind their projects.

We will hear from our speaker at Decision Day, kindergarten and high school choir concerts and then highlight our staff during a staff appreciation section. Be sure to check our Facebook page for photos from Fine Arts Night, Staff Appreciation video and Decision Day video. Also come out to the SOS Club Pancake Breakfast this Saturday, May 11 from 8 to 11 a.m. at Rossford Jr Sr High School.

We learn more about The Bulldog Foundation which is a non-profit organization that raises private funds to help our students. Classroom grants, student scholarships, STEM camps and more opportunities are possible because of this group and its donations. Foundation President Mary Shinavar and Vice President Doug Miller talk about The Foundation, why it was formed 10 years ago, what it does and the upcoming Building Futures Extravaganza. Jerry Glanville is this year's speaker, RSVP through this link: https://thebulldogfoundation.org/extravaganza/

We talk to DECA students Grant Eckel and Michael DeShetler ahead of their trip to California. They leave for an International DECA Competition after great performances in Columbus last month. They discuss what DECA competitions look like, their performances, what they expect in California and more. We also have a call out for 15-25 second staff appreciation videos to be submitted to [email protected] and a transportation app update.

In today's episode we talk to cast members Ava Tullius and Carlos Santellana as well as director Mrs. Witulski ahead of this weekend's Spring Musical. How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying is a 1961 musical about the business world from that time. Cast members discuss the show, the choreography, first-night jitters and more!

Today's episode we are celebrating Rileigh Clair who won the Teen Distracted Driving Billboard Contest put on by Safe Communities of Wood County. As a result her design (the cover for this podcast episode) will be put on a billboard at State Route 795 and Lime City Road next week. We also hear from Sandy Wiechman from Safe Communities of Wood County discussing what distracted driving is and the dangers of it.

We discuss students' success in DECA, wrestling, Esports and then talk to School Resource Officers Wes Socie and Jodi Johnson about the LEAD program. We even share a clip of Officer Socie talking to our elementary Just Say No Club and Officer Jodi talking to a high school class during her LEAD lesson.

In this episode, we recap Speech and Debate's showing at state this past weekend and celebrate our DECA programming going to state. Two of our RHS wrestlers are off to state competition as well. We feature two interviews with wrestlers Noel Reinhart and Ayden Wilson. The two talk about the keys to success in Columbus this weekend and more. Good luck to all of our Bulldogs.

Newly inducted RHS Hall of Fame Soccer Coach John Vargo joins the Rossford Schools Podcast. Coach Vargo discusses his time coaching at Rossford which included four sectional championships, a district championship and Division II Coach of the Year award. He talks about the importance of education, coaching his kids, and the joy of seeing his former students succeed later in life.