The LCPS Podcast (Loudoun County Public Schools)

LCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence speaks to authors Dr. Floyd Cobb and John Krownapple about their book, Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity. The book dives into the importance of dignity and belonging, while it might appear to be self-evident at first glance, it’s not until these concepts are truly unpacked, that educators realize the dire need for belonging through dignity. Once these fundamental human needs are understood, educators can gain clarity of the barriers to meaningful student relationships, especially across dimensions of difference. Even the most relational and responsive educators need this clarity due to the normalization of what the authors refer to as dignity distortions.

El pódcast de esta semana de LCPS, Empodérate y Participa, ha sido creado por la Oficina de la Alianza Educativa, Familiar y Comunitaria para Estudiantes de Inglés (EL FACE).Los oyentes aprenderán de la supervisora de EL FACE, Sarah Ocampo, y de las instructoras Karla Blasquez, Mona ELKholy y Rahima Abdullah, sobre la importancia de elevar las voces de los estudiantes y las familias a través de círculos de retroalimentación y el uso de las funciones ejecutivas como base de los hábitos que conducen al éxito académico y al liderazgo.El episodio también cuenta con dos invitados estudiantiles especiales: Samanta de Potomac Falls High School y Edwin de Heritage High School.

In this week’s LCPS Podcast, Engage and Empower, listeners learn from English Learners Family and Community Engagement Office (EL FACE) Supervisor, Sarah Ocampo, and EL FACE Instructors Karla Blasquez, Mona ELKholy, and Rahima Abdullah about the importance of elevating student and family voices through feedback circles and using executive functions as a foundation of habits that lead to academic success and leadership. The episode also features two special student guests: Samanta from Potomac Falls High School and Edwin from Heritage High School. (This podcast is in English. A Spanish version of this podcast is also available.)

In this episode of DEIA: Better Together, we will explore the role Equity Leads play in supporting the work of our student leaders and sustaining our many communities’ cultures of equity and inclusive connection.Co-Host Camille Jones, DEIA Specialist, is joined by Equity Leads Dr. Michael Matthew, Rochon Moore Bumgardner, Sarah Jones, Jennifer Herrin, Stephen Readyoff, and Meg Miles to discuss the way that their work is impacting experiences within our schools as they support and empower students, school-based staff, and communities in creating and sustaining a collective culture of belonging.

For the April episode of the School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement, sits down with six students from John Champe High School and Shalonda Davis, the school’s Student Activities and Engagement Coordinator. The students, who are involved in a variety of student leader roles in band, DECA, athletics and student government, share their perspectives on what makes John Champe a welcoming and supportive community. Their conversation highlights several key themes: choosing kindness, staying open‑minded, embracing new opportunities, and the importance of mentorship. From the staff perspective, John Champe educators strive to ensure that every student knows they have someone in their corner and are equipped to leave high school with the confidence and skills they need.

In this episode of DEIA: Better Together, Co-Host Everette Callaway is joined by Dr. Michael Grubbs, Director of Career & Technical and Adult Education, Ms. Danyael Graham, Social Sciences & Global Studies Supervisor, and Mr. Grant Schafer, Academic Programs Supervisor to explore how Loudoun County Public Schools brings the vision of “Where the World Learns” to life. Together, they discuss how LCPS provides the tools and support to deliver on its promise—expanding access, elevating student voice, and ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and prepared through equity-centered practices. Tune in as we highlight the work and commitments that help us move forward—better together.

Superintendent Aaron Spence sits down with Jennifer Ferrance, Supervisor of the LCPS Welcome Center, to explore how her team supports families as they join our school division. In a community with diverse backgrounds, cultural experiences, and educational backgrounds, the Welcome Center plays a vital role in ensuring every new family feels prepared and supported from day one.The team recently expanded its services with a second location in Sterling, complementing the original site in Leesburg and increasing access for families across the county. Listen to this week’s podcast and visit the Welcome Center webpage to learn more.

 For the March School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, director of Family and Community Engagement, talks with students from Aldie Elementary.  They are joined by Aldie Principal Ashley Barkley and behavior resource teacher Jessica Vermont to talk about what community means to them and how it comes to life at Aldie. The students share their favorite community‑building traditions and explain Aldie’s motto, ROCK—Respect, Ownership, Community, and Kindness.

This month on the LCPS Podcast, Dr. Spence takes on one of the most important and rapidly evolving topics in education today: generative AI in K-12 schools.Joined by Dr. Tom Ryan of the K-12 Strategic Technology Advisory Group and LCPS Chief Technology Officer Aaron Smith, the conversation explores where schools are right now with AI -- and where it’s headed next. From instructional impact and academic integrity to student readiness and responsible implementation, this episode unpacks both the promise and the practical realities of AI in the classroom.

In this episode of DEIA: Better Together, Co-Host Anthony Beckett is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Whitehead, DEIA Specialist, and Mr. Gary Ricci, Restorative Practices Specialist to explore the consequences of choosing comfort over connection and the harm caused by unaddressed silence in our systems and to discuss:Curriculum Violence: Examining how silence and exclusion can cause unintended harm.Restorative Practices: Shifting our approach to conflict and harm from reactive to restorative.Healing-Centered Engagement: Building communities where difficult truths can be spoken without fear, focusing on a healing-centered response to ensure every student is seen, heard, and loved.Tune in as we turn tension into transformation and explore why the choice to stay silent is never passive

Dr. Aaron Spence talks with Jen Evans, director of LCPS’ Student Mental Health Services, and Brennan, an 11th-grade student at Heritage High School, about the upcoming United for Wellness Conference. Jen shares what you can expect at the conference, and Brennan provides reasons to attend. Learn more about the conference at www.lcps.org/wellness (This podcast is an audio recording of the February Think Fast video.)

In this episode of School Talk, Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence sits down with education leader Dr. Doug Reeves to explore what parents want most from their children’s schools when it comes to teaching and assessment. Together, they discuss how meaningful learning, thoughtful feedback, and high expectations help prepare students for success after graduation -- whether that path leads to college, career, or beyond. 

Esta semana, el Podcast de LCPS presenta un episodio especial de Engage and Empower, un podcast creado por la Oficina de Participación Familiar y Comunitaria de Aprendices del Inglés (EL FACE). En este episodio, las instructoras de EL FACE Karla Blasquez y Mitza Hanger orientan a las familias sobre temas importantes relacionados con el apoyo a los estudiantes aprendices del inglés.Los oyentes aprenderán cómo se identifica a los estudiantes y cómo se determina su elegibilidad para recibir servicios a través del Programa de Aprendices del Inglés, así como una descripción general de la evaluación de dominio del idioma WIDA ACCESS. El episodio también destaca The Family Room, uno de los programas de EL FACE diseñado para fortalecer la participación familiar y el éxito estudiantil. Para concluir, las instructoras comparten estrategias prácticas que las familias pueden utilizar en casa para apoyar a los estudiantes con el inicio de tareas y las rutinas diarias.¡Las familias están invitadas a escuchar este episodio informativo, disponible en inglés y en español!

This week’s LCPS Podcast features a special episode from Engage and Empower, a podcast created by the English Learners Family and Community Engagement Office (EL FACE). In this episode, EL FACE instructors Karla Blasquez and Min Young Cheng guide families through important topics related to supporting English Learners.Listeners will learn how students are identified and determined eligible for services through the English Learners Program, along with an overview of the WIDA ACCESS Language Assessment. The episode also highlights The Family Room, one of EL FACE’s programs designed to strengthen family engagement and student success. To conclude, the instructors share practical strategies families can use at home to support students with task initiation and daily routines.Families are invited to tune in and enjoy this informative episode—available in both English and Spanish!

In this episode of DEIA: Better Together, we’re exploring the importance of ensuring that students are a part of the planning process as we build programs and initiatives designed to benefit and support them, and the impact of centering student voice and facilitating opportunities for students to lead the work.Co-Host Camille Jones, DEIA Specialist is joined by Lyn Fiscus, Extracurricular Specialist with the Student Activities & Engagement Coordinator program (SAEC), and Alix Tate, School Counseling Coordinator for the College Achievement & Multicultural Program for Unique Students (CAMPUS), to discuss how LCPS is centering student voices within classroom learning communities, school culture, and dynamic instruction.

For the January School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, director of Family and Community Engagement, talks with five Blue Ridge Middle School students who are active in PEER, the Ambassador program, and Student Council. The students share what community means to them and how their involvement in these activities helps strengthen connections across the school. The students also reflect on the school motto, "what you do matters," and discuss how it shapes their choices. Business education teacher Tiffany Whalen also joins the conversation, offering her perspective on what makes Blue Ridge Middle such a special place to learn and grow.

LCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence speaks with high school students Skyla from Woodgrove HS and GU from Potomac Falls HS about their experiences and opinions on opportunities for LCPS students to learn outside the classroom and discover their passions.  

December’s School Spirit Podcast takes listeners inside Broad Run High School, where Renée Dawson, Director of LCPS’ Division of Family and Community Engagement, chats with students about how they’re building a culture of belonging. From PEER to the Muslim Student Association to Student Council, these young leaders share how their organizations create connections, celebrate diversity, and strengthen community spirit at Broad Run. Student Activity and Engagement Coordinator Katrice White also shares her thoughts on what makes Broad Run special. 

 In this episode of DEIA: Better Together, we’re exploring the powerful link between professional learning and student success. Talent development isn’t just about training — it’s about transformation. When educators grow, students thrive.Co-Host Everette Callaway is joined by Tanisha Holland, Director of Talent Development, and Lauren Sprowls, Supervisor of Leadership Development within Human Resources and Talent Development (HRTD), to discuss how LCPS is building pathways for continuous learning, supporting classroom teachers, and cultivating strong, reflective leaders.Together, they unpack what it means to take a learner’s stance as educators — expanding access to professional growth, empowering teachers to lead with confidence, and shaping schools where every student can see, feel, and experience excellence.Because when we invest in our people, we invest in our students.

This week on School Talk with Dr. Spence, we’re talking workforce development and why it starts long before graduation. Special guests Ed Hidalgo and Dr. Steve Regur, CEO of the Educator’s Cooperative, share how partnerships, early exposure and purposeful learning can transform student opportunities. A must-listen for educators and families alike!

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to Jack Garvin, a freshman who recently won a national championship for building the fastest dragster in the US.  Jack talks about his experience competing, the value it brings to his learning, and the amazing support he received from his LCPS teachers and advisors.

LCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence speaks to authors Dr. Floyd Cobb and John Krownapple about their book, Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity. The book dives into the importance of dignity and belonging, while it might appear to be self-evident at first glance, it’s not until these concepts are truly unpacked, that educators realize the dire need for belonging through dignity. Once these fundamental human needs are understood, educators can gain clarity of the barriers to meaningful student relationships, especially across dimensions of difference. Even the most relational and responsive educators need this clarity due to the normalization of what the authors refer to as dignity distortions.

Join the English Learners Family and Community Engagement (EL FACE) Office for a special podcast called “Engage & Empower” designed for multilingual families to learn about LCPS and the School System, participate in EL FACE’s Family programs, and explore executive function skills that foster organization and productivity in students. In this episode, Sarah Ocampo, EL FACE Supervisor, and Karla Blasquez, EL FACE Instructor from the EL FACE Office will dialogue about an overview of the public school system, and share tips for families to help students stay organized and focused on success! 

Únase a la Oficina de la Alianza, Educativa, Familiar y Comunitaria de Estudiantes de Inglés (EL FACE) para un pódcast especial llamado “Participa y Empodérate”, diseñado para que las familias multilingües aprendan sobre LCPS y el Sistema Escolar, participen en los programas familiares de EL FACE, y exploren habilidades de función ejecutiva que fomentan la organización y la productividad en los estudiantes. En este episodio, Sarah Ocampo, Supervisora de EL FACE, y Karla Blasquez, Instructora de la Oficina de EL FACE, dialogarán sobre una descripción general del sistema de escuelas públicas y compartirán consejos para que las familias ayuden a los estudiantes a mantenerse organizados y enfocados en el éxito.

DEIA: Better Together – Ep. 8: Inclusive Access for Student SuccessIn this episode, co-host Anthony Beckett, DEIA Specialist, sits down with Tedra Richardson, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services; Renee Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement (FACE); and Charisse Rosario, Director of the Division of English Learners.Together, they unpack how Loudoun County Public Schools is intentionally building inclusive systems that empower every learner — from multilingual students to those with disabilities. The conversation dives into what it truly means to create equitable access, design culturally responsive supports, and foster authentic family partnerships that elevate student success.🔗 Tune in to hear how collaboration, inclusion, and innovation are shaping the future of learning — because we’re always better together.

In the October episode of the School Spirit Podcast, Renée Dawson, Director of LCPS’ Division of Family and Community Engagement, sits down with students from Sterling Middle School for a thoughtful conversation about community, their hopes for the future and how Advisory helps them pursue their goals. But the dialogue doesn’t stop there. These students turn the tables and ask Ms. Dawson what it’s like on the other side of the desk, offering listeners a glimpse into the life of a school administrator.

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to Dr. Ashley Ellis, Chief Academic Officer, about the latest SOL scores for the school division, what it means and where we go from here.

Season 2 Premiere!Episode 7: Representation MattersHost: Camille JonesGuests: Sarah Ocampo & Dr. Lindsay OrmeWhat does it really mean for students to see themselves reflected in their school environment? In this powerful season opener, Camille Jones sits down with Sarah Ocampo and Dr. Lindsay Orme to explore how authentic representation of diverse identities and cultures can transform classrooms and communities.From avoiding tokenism to incorporating “windows and mirrors” into the curriculum, this episode dives deep into how educators can foster inclusive spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. Plus, hear practical strategies for engaging with the wider LCPS community and ensuring cultural representation goes beyond surface-level celebrations.💡 Why is DEIA essential for student success today?Tune in to find out — because when it comes to equity and inclusion, we’re all better together.

In the September episode of the School Spirit Podcast, Renee Dawson, Director of LCPS’s Division of Family and Community Engagement, sits down with Loudoun County High School student leaders and their teacher to explore the impact of the Sources of Strength program. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about peer-led mental health advocacy, building resilience, and how these students are spreading messages of hope and connection throughout their school community.

LCPS Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence speaks with Dr. David Schuler, Executive Director of AASA, about ensuring students feel they belong, multiple pathways for student success, and other topics that are important to parents.

🎙️ Better Together Podcast is back!Join us for a new season filled with inspiring, informative, and thought-provoking conversations. Episodes drop every 4th Thursday of the month.

Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to Gum Spring Middle School 6th grader, Sarthak Mishra, who has been published after writing a book, The Spooky Secrets of Camp Midnight.  Listen to him talk about his achievement, the support he recieved from family and LCPS, and his plans for the future.

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence about the school division's FY26 budget, the uncertainty surrounding Washington and federal funding, and how this may be an opportunity.

Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence speaks to Aaron Smith, Chief Information Officer, and Neil Slevin, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning about Generative AI in LCPS.

In this month’s School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement, talks with Michelle Buscema, a special education teacher at Eagle Ridge Middle School, and her students – Chris, Jayla, Kolbe, and Zach – about a recent class lesson on civil rights icon, Ruby Bridges. The students share what they learned about Ruby Bridges and the letters they wrote to her. Ms. Buscema shares about the lesson’s impact on the class and on her.

Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence spends some time chatting with several LCPS Student Equity Ambassadors about their work, the challenges they face, and why they are involved in equity work.

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to the Odyssey of the Mind team from Goshen Post Elementary School, The Sigmas, about their upcoming trip to Worlds at Michigan State University.

Tune in with the staff from the Division of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.  

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams interviews Kimberly Poole, Teacher of the Year, and Jeff Joseph, Principal of the Year, selected by the Washington Post.

In this month’s School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement, speaks to the sponsors and a few members of the Empowered Girls Club at Simpson Middle School. Club sponsors and Simpson Middle School teachers Jennifer Herrin and Samantha Ashley share the inspiration behind the club. Three club members, Amira T., Olivia J. and Angela A., all 8th graders at Simpson, tell us what they enjoy about the club and what they have gained from it. 

The DEIA team continues to discuss aspects of their work and it's making LCPS an inclusive school division.

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams speaks to students Naija Shah from John Champe HS and the Academies of Loudoun and Oviya Amalraj from Lunsford Middle School about their experiences in academic competition. 

Dr. Spence talks with Chief Communications and Community Engagement Officer Natalie Allen and Director of Family and Community Engagement Renee Dawson about LCPS' efforts to engage with families and ways the community can stay connected to the school division.  

Dan Adams, LCPS Public Information Officer, speaks with Diana Rodriguez and Katherine Parker from LAWS Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services to discuss resources, collaboration and the future between LCPS and LAWS.

Everette, Camille and Anthony from DEIA talk about The Voice of the JEDI - How are students involved in “the work”? What are some student-led initiatives strengthened by equity work, and what has been students’ reception to existing DEIA efforts? Guests are Student Equity Ambassadors and Student Delegates from the Minority Student Achievement Advisory Committee. These dynamic students are making their voices heard, emerging as influential leaders and changemakers in their school communities.We’ll also be joined by Trey Baker, an Emmy-nominated spoken word poet - who facilitated our most recent JEDI meeting and works to empower students to tell their story, their way.

In this month’s School Spirit podcast, Renee Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement, speaks with Woodgrove High School biology teacher Scott Fortney and four of his students, Maggie Bugaj, Cooper Curtis, Andrew Dean and Addie McCullers, about a recent classroom project to help restore the American chestnut tree. The students share how this hands-on activity taught them about the role of the keystone species as well as some other fundamental science and ecology lessons. 

Dr. Aaron Spence talks about workforce development and school/business partnerships with Dr. Michael Grubbs, Director of Career Technical and Adult Education.

LCPS Public Information Officer Dan Adams interviews Kabilan Prasanna, a Senior at Lightridge HS and the Academies of Loudoun, as he talks about the rigorous academics at LCPS and his recent recognition as one of the country's top 300 teen scientists. 

Your hosts discuss DEIA efforts at LCPS with Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence and Assistant Superintendent for DEIA Dr. Latisha Ellis-Williams.

In this month’s School Spirt podcast, host Renee Dawson speaks with Eagle Ridge Middle School Principal Scott Phillips and Assistant Principal Dave Barlock about the structures and mechanisms they have put in place to support student success. Eagle Ridge Middle School was recently ranked by the Virginia Department of Education as the number 3 middle school in the Commonwealth based on student mastery and growth in math and reading.