Affton Unplugged

In this podcast episode of Affton Unplugged, Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews the director and several students involved with the St. Louis Centers for Advanced Professional Studies (STL CAPS). The program offers high school juniors and seniors hands-on professional experiences through strands like healthcare and business, moving education beyond the traditional classroom.  Director Dr. Tim Luecke explains how the initiative utilizes partnerships with local businesses to provide internships, site visits, and professional skill development. Participating students share personal stories regarding surgical shadowing, marketing campaigns, and networking with peers from various school districts. Collectively, the episode guests highlight how the program bridges the gap between high school and career, allowing students to build confidence and refine their future goals. St. Louis CAPS is an example of how business, community and public education can partner to produce personalized learning experiences that educate the workforce of tomorrow, especially in high skill, high demand jobs.

In this podcast episode of Affton Unplugged, Superintendent Travis Bracht hosts a discussion celebrating National School Nurse Day by highlighting the vital role of the district's health services. The conversation features district health leaders and school nurses who explain that their responsibilities extend far beyond basic first aid to include chronic disease management and community health mentorship.    Key improvements mentioned include the implementation of school-based immunization clinics to remove barriers for families and the district's pursuit of a "Heart-Safe" designation through specialized cardiac response training. The staff also discusses the use of wearable panic buttons to accelerate emergency response times and ensure student safety.    The episode conversation emphasizes the collaborative nature of school health teams and their dedication to fostering a safe, supportive environment for academic success. Happy School Nurses Day!

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews several long-serving staff members preparing for their 2026 retirement. These dedicated educators that include Ray Crites, Bridget Nyberg, Laura Bangert and Dr. Deann Myers share reflections on their decades of service. The conversations highlighting the district’s tight-knit community and special memories like taking students to the theater or winning Teacher of the Year. They also recount leadership journeys that included creative ways the district supported students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each retiree outlines diverse future plans, ranging from substitute teaching and consulting to international travel and gardening. The episode celebrates the professional legacies and personal connections formed within the Affton School District.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast, Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews South Technical High School Principal Dr. Jacob Lohse and three seniors from Affton High School to discuss the benefits of career and technical education.   South Tech offers 22 specialized programs, including veterinary assistant and construction innovations, which provide students with hands-on experience and industry-recognized credentials. Students highlight the value of learning from industry-professional teachers and the opportunity to build professional connections and practical skills before graduation.   Dr. Lohse emphasizes that the school serves as a vital career-focused environment where juniors and seniors can explore their passions using real-world equipment. The discussion illustrates how South Tech prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce or further specialized training.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht has a conversation with South Technical High School Principal, Dr. Jacob Lohse, and three juniors from Affton High School pursuing career paths in construction, culinary arts and cosmetology. The discussion highlights the unique hands-on learning environment at South Tech, where students from across St. Louis County gain industry-specific skills in over 20 different fields. Dr. Lohse emphasizes that the school utilizes expert instructors from the workforce and professional-grade equipment to ensure a seamless transition into future careers. The participating students share personal stories about their favorite projects and the meaningful social connections they have built with peers who share their professional passions. The episode highlights the amazing opportunities available to Affton High School students in partnership with South Tech to explore alternative educational opportunities that focus on practical application and trade certification.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews new secondary educators at Rogers Middle School and Afton High School. These professionals come from diverse backgrounds, including military service, student teaching residencies, and previous experience in other districts or charter schools. During the segments, the teachers discuss their specific subject areas and reflect on the professional paths that led them to the district. A consistent theme throughout the conversations is the strong sense of community and collaborative support provided by colleagues and families. The educators emphasize how these interpersonal connections and the welcoming environment have positively impacted their first year in the district. Overall, the episode highlights successful integration of new staff members into the Afton School District’s educational mission.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews a diverse group of new elementary educators at Mesnier Primary School and Gotsch Intermediate School. The participants include first-year teachers, career changers from corporate and service industries, and experienced specialists in art, counseling, and English Language Learning. Each guest reflects on their prior professional backgrounds and the specific paths that led them to join the district. A central theme across the interviews is the strong sense of community and the supportive administrative environment found within the schools. Teachers consistently highlight the welcoming atmosphere, unique student diversity, and collaborative team spirits as their favorite aspects of working in Afton. The discussion serves as an introduction to the new staff while reinforcing the district's commitment to prioritizing education through personal connections.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights staff from both Gotsch Intermediate School and Dance Moves STL. The participants describe a decade-long partnership that brings a ballroom dancing curriculum to fifth-grade students to foster social development and confidence.    Beyond learning physical choreography from various cultures, students practice mutual respect and teamwork by rotating partners and performing in front of their peers. Educators emphasize how the program helps children overcome social anxiety and step outside their comfort zones in a safe environment.    The conversation highlights the inclusive nature of the initiative, noting that students of all abilities participate in final competitions. The episode illustrates how the program transforms apprehensive students into poised performers through the dedicated support of teachers and professional artists.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews school social workers Jessica Crawford and Kortney Wood to celebrate National School Social Worker Week March 2-6. The guests describe their professional backgrounds and explain how their roles serve as a vital bridge between the home, the community, and the classroom. They outline the diverse services they provide, including crisis intervention, mental health support, and connecting families with essential resources like food and housing. The discussion highlights prevalent challenges students face today, such as chronic absenteeism and anxiety, while also sharing heartwarming success stories from within the district. The conversation emphasizes a holistic approach to education that prioritizes a child's emotional and social well-being alongside their academic progress.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast features the NotebookLM AI co-host duo taking a deep dive into the Affton School District 2022-27 Strategic Plan Roadmap. The Affton School District Strategic Plan functions as a comprehensive roadmap designed to guide the community toward specific educational milestones between 2022 and 2027. Referred to as a Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) in Missouri, this document outlines the district’s foundational mission, vision, and core values while establishing concrete goals for the future. The framework was built through extensive collaboration with students, parents, and staff to ensure the strategy reflects the needs of all stakeholders. Organized into four distinct pillars, the plan incorporates One-Year Plans and a District Scorecard to maintain flexibility and high levels of accountability. The district commits to a process of continuous improvement and regular performance evaluation. Ultimately, this plan serves as a vital tool for meeting state accreditation standards while ensuring every student is prepared for future success.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast, Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews three school resource officers to celebrate their contributions in honor of National SRO Day. The conversation features Officer Ashley Meyer, who discusses her transition from community outreach to early childhood and elementary education, and Officer Bryan Felts, a Navy veteran who serves the local high school. Additionally, Officer John Whitmore reflects on his seventeen-year tenure at the middle school and the meaningful professional relationships he has built. Each guest shares their personal motivations for entering law enforcement, such as a desire to help others or find a sense of purpose. The officers also describe their hobbies and family lives, offering a humanizing look at the individuals tasked with maintaining campus safety. Ultimately, the episode highlights the strong bond between these officers and the Affton community they protect.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast highlights National School Counseling Week. Superintendent Travis Bracht sits down with school counselors from across the district as they introduce themselves, explain why they became counselors, and share what they love about supporting students. From elementary social-skills lessons to middle- and high-school transition planning and college readiness, the episode highlights counselors’ behind-the-scenes work advocating for students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being. These experts act as advocates and bridgebuilders, managing academic paths, crisis intervention, and social skills to support the whole child.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast features a discussion led by Superintendent Travis Bracht regarding the Model United Nations program at Rogers Middle School. Teacher Laura Hubbard explains how the curriculum, established in 2019, teaches students about global diplomacy, sustainable development goals, and international policy. Several eighth-grade students share their experiences researching real-world crises, such as poverty in Venezuela and hurricane relief in Jamaica, while representing the specific values of their assigned countries. The group highlights a unique General Assembly hosted by the school, where they collaborated with peers from another local middle school to negotiate resolutions. Ultimately, the participants emphasize how the program builds essential 21st-century skills like empathy, public speaking, and collaborative problem-solving. Through these academic simulations, students develop a deeper connection to current events and gain a better understanding of their potential to impact the world.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews members of the Rogers Middle School Art Club. Led by teacher Katie Rice, the club has seen rapid growth and has integrated student leadership roles to help the club and it's members thrive. Students share how the club provides a supportive environment to refine their skills and enter various art competitions. The episode highlights significant achievements, including students becoming published artists through national contests and winning awards in local district-wide events. The episode emphasizes the strong community bonds and creative opportunities fostered through after-school programs. It also serves as an important reminder about how important it is to get students connected to extracurricular activities.

This episode of Affton Unplugged podcast features Superintendent Travis Bracht discussing Unity Day with students and staff from Gotsch Intermediate School. The conversation highlights how this annual event promotes kindness, inclusion, and acceptance through creative projects like posters and videos. Three fifth-grade students were specifically honored by the Special School District of St. Louis County for a winning video that showcased daily challenges to foster a welcoming environment. The school further celebrated the theme "Unity Every Day" by creating a massive paper chain representing the entire student body and spelling out the word "unity" with their bodies for a photograph. The participants explain how these leadership roles allowed them to inspire the broader community and reach other schools within the district. This episode emphasizes the importance of student-led initiatives in building a safe and supportive educational atmosphere.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast highlights an annual event hosted by the Affton Education Foundation, an organization that has provided over half a million dollars in college scholarships since 2005. During a special luncheon, scholarship recipients return to share how these financial awards have helped them pursue diverse academic paths, ranging from business and nursing to marine science and criminal justice. Former students, spanning graduation years from 2020 to 2025, provide updates on their progress at various universities and discuss their future career goals. The gathering serves as a way for the foundation's board of directors to see the tangible impact of their support on the lives of local graduates. It also serves as a celebration of academic achievement and the Affton Education Foundations investment in the next generation of professionals.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast highlights the Rogers Middle School Mentoring Program that is coordinated in partnership with Mesnier Primary School. This episode features the RMS Social-Emotional Learning Interventionist, Lena Mahurin, and several sixth- through eighth-grade student mentors who participate in the program. The discussion centers on the benefits and activities of the mentoring program. For example, the program pairs middle schoolers with primary students in grades K-2 for activities such as scavenger hunts, board games and reading. The overall goal of the mentoring program is to build relationships and foster positive role models. The participants share details about how the program works, its origin, and their favorite memories and experiences as mentors, including an upcoming plan to have the younger students visit the middle school. Overall, the podcast highlights this cross-grade initiative within the Affton School District that truly embodies #OneAffton.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast highlights the Affton High School Speech and Debate Team. The episode features interviews with the two faculty sponsors—Ms. Rice and Mrs. Bayha—and five student participants who share their experiences and competition results. The sponsors explain that the speech side involves competitive acting with pieces like poetry and humorous interpretations, while the debate side follows a rigorous format on predetermined national topics, requiring extensive research and rebuttal preparation. Students discuss their individual events, the dedication required for preparation, and the strong sense of community and family they have found within the team.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton High School Key Club by having a conversation with the faculty sponsor and four student officers. This episode focuses on the student-led organization, which is a community service group sponsored locally by Gravois Kiwanis. The student officers describe recent activities, including their participation in the Key Leader Weekend leadership training, which helped them develop personal leadership skills and strategies for recruiting new members. They note that the club's membership has successfully doubled in size compared to the previous year, participating in local efforts like campus clean-up, food drives, and volunteering at Oakland House. Ultimately, the sponsor and students stress that the club is a fun, accessible, and rewarding experience that allows students to make a tangible impact on the community. 

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast highlights the National Honor Society (NHS) program at Affton High School. The episode features interviews with the NHS co-sponsors, Dr. Brian Esselman and Laurie Free, who discuss the organization's mission as a student-run service group built upon the pillars of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Three Affton High School students share their experiences and the positive impact NHS has on both students and the community. The students discuss their involvement in service projects like the "Field of Flags" and explain the application and induction process. The overall discussion highlights the dedication and leadership skills developed by students through the organization's activities.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the nationally recognized school counseling program at Mesnier Primary School. School Counselors Megan Smith and Hannah Dreas explain how the state and national certification process serves as a crucial "checkup" for their program's effectiveness. The counselors describe the year-long application process, which involves demonstrating that their work aligns with best practices and is informed by student data. They specifically highlight successful interventions that led to a significant drop in discipline referrals and a reduction in high-risk internalizing behaviors among students. They also discuss program goals, advisory council meetings and classroom lessons like Kelso's Choice conflict resolution curriculum. Finally, the counselors emphasize the strong support system from staff and the community that contributes to the program's success. You won't want to miss hearing about the amazing work that goes into shaping the success of all students at Mesnier Primary School.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Rogers Middle School Drama Club’s upcoming production. The episode features an interview with Mr. Joe Murphy, the drama club sponsor and high school teacher, and four students who discuss their roles and involvement in the club. The central topic of the discussion is their fall show, "It's a Mad House," a mystery about a wealthy novelist's dysfunctional family hunting for an $84 million inheritance hidden in a mansion. They cover production details, the challenges of memorizing lines and staging, and the overall positive community of the drama club, which involves a large group of around 78 cast and crew members. The show dates are December 11-13 at Rogers Middle School beginning at 7:30 PM.  

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the upcoming fall production at Affton High School - Peter & the Starcatcher. You will hear from four students—David (Student Director), Cora (Orphan), Anthony (Peter Pan), and Hana (Stage Manager)—involved in the play. The show is scheduled for November 21st and 22nd at 7:30 PM in the Judith Rethwisch Auditorium. The students discuss their specific roles, the unique challenges of the production, and their overwhelming appreciation for the sense of family and community they find within the theater program. They share personal stories and memories, highlighting how theater has helped them grow and form strong connections with their peers, before concluding with a final plug for the show.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht celebrates National School Principal Month by featuring the principals from the Affton School District. The segment includes interviews with five principals—Dr. Sinamon (Early Childhood Center & PAT), Dr. Been (Mesnier Primary School), Dr. Powers (Gotsch Intermediate School), Dr. Griffin (Rogers Middle School), and Dr. Calhoun (Affton High School). Each school leader shares details about their educational journeys, career paths, and personal backgrounds. These conversations cover their undergraduate and advanced degrees, influential activities from their youth and college years, previous positions in education, and how they came to serve the Affton community. The episode offers listeners a look into the professional and personal lives of the district's school leaders.

Superintendent Travis Bracht records from the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) Conference in Kansas City, interviewing school board members and superintendents about what makes their districts special and how podcasts can amplify those voices. Guests share favorite memories and district highlights — from community support and student achievement to well-being initiatives and award-winning arts and athletics — illustrating why storytelling matters for every school.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht focuses on the district's social emotional learning (SEL) interventionists. The episode introduces four interventionists—Dan Ludwig at Affton High School, Lena Mahurin at Rogers Middle School, Molly Browning at Gotsch Intermediate School, and Paige Carter at Mesnier Primary School—who share their diverse professional backgrounds and personal lives. The conversation then transitions into discussing how the SEL program has evolved since 2016 when it first emerged as a strategic focus area. The interventionists support students and staff across various grade levels with curriculum implementation, emotional regulation, and problem-solving through initiatives like the Second Step and Zones of Regulation programs. Each interventionist describes their specific roles and programming, such as small groups, crisis intervention, and mentorship, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across departments and buildings to foster a strong school culture and sense of belonging. The episode concludes with the interventionists sharing favorite memories and stories illustrating the positive impact of their work on students.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Choir Program. You will hear from longtime choir director Mr. Dale Fearnley and four students from Affton High School—Liam McCart, David McKenzie, Louisa Sullivan, and Ruby Kuhlman. Mr. Fearnley shares his extensive background in teaching and his connection to the district as an alumnus, emphasizing the program’s family-like environment and eclectic music selection. The students discuss their reasons for joining the choir, what they enjoy most about the experience, and the behind-the-scenes work involved in preparing for performances. The group concludes by sharing favorite memories and highlighting upcoming events, such as the December 8th concert.  

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton Orchestra Program. This episode features the Orchestra Teacher, Mrs. Heithaus, and two student participants, Erma Muminovic and Spencer Slavik, who discuss their involvement and passion for music. They highlight the program's offerings for grades six through twelve, detail their upcoming Halloween-themed concert on October 17th at 7:00 PM in the Rogers Middle School Cafeteria. They also share stories about preparation, competitions, and the sense of community within the orchestra. The participants also touch upon the growth of the program and their goals for future collaborations and performances.

In this episode of the "Affton Unplugged" podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton Band Program. Featured guests include the Band Director Mr. Curtis Schroyer and three students—Abbi Singer, Denis Gralike, and James McCann—who share their experiences and passion for music. Discussion points include the sense of community and camaraderie within the band, the dedication required for rehearsals and performances, and future aspirations of the students, concluding with information about upcoming concert dates for the community. The Affton Band Program is an example of how students can foster community, musical growth, and service through concert band, marching/pep band, and solo/ensemble opportunities. The episode also highlights student stories, the teacher’s journey, behind-the-scenes rehearsal work, notable memories like a first-place trip to Louisville, and upcoming free concerts on December 3, 2025 and April 22, 2026.

On this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the Affton High School girls tennis team. The episode features the team's coach, Beth Daniels, a longtime Affton resident and former player, along with two senior players, Miranda Yeates and Emily Wilson. The discussion covers the history of the tennis program, including its start in 1975, discontinuation in 1982, and Coach Daniels' role in restarting it in 2019. The players share their positive experiences with team camaraderie, the differences between singles and doubles play, and their recent success in tournaments. They also provide practical details about the sport, such as the use of Whitecliff Park as their home court and the unique nature of having players call their own lines during matches.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights an Advanced Placement (AP) U.S. Government and Politics class at Affton High School. Teacher Tony Muyco and several senior students discuss their participation in the C-SPAN documentary project, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Students worked individually or in teams to produce six-minute documentaries relating the ideals of the Declaration to either a historical event or a contemporary community issue, with topics ranging from local infrastructure issues like potholes to Bosnian immigration to St. Louis. The students share their challenges, such as scheduling group meetings, their favorite parts of the process, particularly conducting interviews, and what they learned about their respective topics. Mr. Muyco notes that the project, which he has overseen since 2006, now benefits from students' proficiency with modern filming technology like cell phones. This episodes illustrates how students at Affton High School are being encouraged to use creative learning strategies. It also demonstrates how they are applying what they learn to issues that impact their local community.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast features Superintendent Travis Bracht interviewing four IT professionals—Bill Wagner, Adam Jasinski, Rachel Watson, and Brandon Clark—from the Affton School District to celebrate National IT Professionals Day. The discussion highlights the diverse responsibilities of IT staff, extending beyond simple computer fixes to include network maintenance, security monitoring, and implementing new technologies. They share memorable challenges, such as server crashes, ransomware attacks, and the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside the enjoyment derived from supporting students and teachers and the variety inherent in their roles. The team also discusses the future of technology in education, emphasizing the impact of AI and the ongoing need for infrastructure upgrades, while stressing the importance of communication and patience from staff regarding IT requests.

In this episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights what students and staff have enjoyed about the first few weeks of school. Teachers across various subjects and grade levels express enjoyment in reconnecting with students and colleagues, establishing routines, and introducing new topics.  Students, ranging from elementary to high school, frequently mention the joy of seeing friends again, making new connections, engaging in sports and extracurricular activities like choir and theater, and appreciating their classes and teachers. Some students also enjoy challenges, specific subjects like math and science, and school favorites such as recess and maker space. Overall, the voices of Affton's staff and students capture a positive sentiment regarding the start of the school year, emphasizing community, learning, and social interaction.

This episode of the Affton Unplugged podcast introduces HOSA, Health Occupation Students of America, a national organization that prepares high school students for medical careers. Superintendent Travis Bracht interviews science teacher and HOSA sponsor Lizzie Closser, alongside students Alexis Hancock, Lillian Edwards, and Miranda Yeates, all rising seniors involved in the club. The discussion highlights the competitive aspect of HOSA, where students participate in events related to specific medical professions, with opportunities to advance from state to international competitions. The students emphasize the strong sense of community, mentorship, and life skills gained through HOSA, such as self-accountability and time management, while Ms. Closser notes the program's value in providing real-world connections and a competitive edge for future medical professionals.

Welcome to Affton Unplugged with Superintendent Travis Bracht. In this episode, Dr. Cassandra Suggs joins the podcast to share her personal and professional journey — from a journalism and TV career (including interviews with Michael Jordan and working with Oprah) to becoming an educator and administrator. Dr. Suggs talks about her family, her start in English language learning (ELL), her transition into school leadership, the warm community welcome she received at Affton, and what she’s looking forward to this school year. She also shares a memorable teaching moment that captures why she loves working with students.

Welcome to the latest episode of Affton Unplugged, a podcast by the Affton School District that highlights the people and stories that make the district great. Join Superintendent Travis Bracht as he sits down with the Affton Parents Club (APC) President, Emily Grozdanic. In this episode, Emily shares upcoming events and initiatives for the 2025-26 school year. Discover how this dynamic group supports social interaction, promotes family engagement, and cultivates student success. From the Back to School Bash (Sunday, September 24th, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Mesnier Primary School) to a new event called Meet Me at the Pitch (Wednesday, September 10th, in the evening at Affton High School), learn about the exciting activities that bring the Affton community together. Get insights into how you can get involved, whether as a volunteer or participant. Tune in to find out why the Affton Parents Club is a vital part of making the Affton School District a wonderful place for students, parents, and the entire community. Don't miss this engaging and informative episode!

Join Superintendent Travis Bracht in this special episode of "Affton Unplugged," where we celebrate the remarkable journey of the Affton School District's Class of 2025. On the day of their graduation at Chaifetz Arena, these graduates shared heartfelt messages to their kindergarten selves, offering advice and reflections on their past experiences. Through candid and inspiring conversations, hear how these young adults navigated school life, overcame challenges, and discovered the importance of self-belief and determination. From the value of enjoying the present moment to the significance of trusting oneself and fostering friendships, these insights serve as a testament to their growth and resilience. Explore the diverse and meaningful perspectives shared by these graduates, and join us in congratulating them as they embark on their future endeavors. This episode is a tribute to the students' enduring spirits and the transformative power of education in the Affton School District.

Welcome to another episode of Affton Unplugged, where we delve into the world of Rogers Middle School’s undefeated boys volleyball team. Join Superintendent Travis Bracht as he hosts an insightful discussion with Coach Natalie Kilgore, who shares her experiences fostering both teamwork and individual growth among her students. Discover how experienced players led their team to a victorious season while also encouraging athletes that were new to volleyball. Explore what motivated these young players to join the team, their favorite moments on the court, and their hopes for future volleyball endeavors. Through their stories, witness a celebration not only of athletic achievement but also of friendship and personal development. Affton Unplugged proudly showcases the remarkable journeys that make the Affton School District truly exceptional.

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, featuring heartfelt conversations with our dedicated English Language Learner (ELL) staff from the Affton School District. In this episode, Superintendent Travis Bracht sits down with ELL teachers to explore the vibrant stories and impactful work happening in our diverse school community. From inspiring personal journeys to the extraordinary support given to our newest students, this discussion sheds light on the incredible role ELL educators play. Discover the highlights and memorable experiences shared by our teachers as they guide and nurture the multicultural students who enrich our schools. Listen in as staff recount their favorite moments, the joys of cultural diversity, and the powerful bonds formed with families and students from around the world. This episode is a tribute to the people and stories that truly make the Affton School District exceptional.

Join us on this special episode of Affton Unplugged, as we dive into Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. Host Superintendent Travis Bracht opens with a heartfelt message to express gratitude for the dedication, passion, and commitment our teachers and staff bring to the Affton School District. Hear firsthand from school leaders and students who share their appreciation and stories about the impact teachers and staff have on their educational journey. From fostering curiosity and resilience to providing support and empowerment, the incredible contributions of Affton's educators are applauded and cherished. Tune in to celebrate the difference these educators make, nurturing the heart and mind of each student, and supporting the community that thrives on their passion and professionalism.

In this episode of Affton Unplugged, we introduce Joe Krabbe, the newest member of the Affton School District's Board of Education. As an Affton alumnus and passionate community advocate, Joe shares his journey from growing up in Affton to becoming a board member, driven by his love for the community and school district. With a strong belief in teamwork and service, Joe discusses his past roles in sports, church, and local initiatives, ultimately leading him to serve on the school board. Discover Joe's favorite memories, his vision for Affton's future, and how he continues to foster a spirit of collaboration and excellence within the district.

Join Superintendent Travis Bracht in this engaging episode of Affton Unplugged as we take you inside Rogers Middle School's Drama Club. Get an exclusive look behind the curtain with Mr. Murphy, the dedicated drama club sponsor, and meet the talented students gearing up for their production of "The Absolutely True Story of King Arthur." Discover how this unique rendition blends classic legends with modern humor, and hear the cast members share their favorite memories and the joy of being part of this vibrant community. Mark your calendars for May 15th-17th to witness this exciting adventure. Don't miss out on the laughter, magic, and camaraderie that define Affton's Drama Club!

Welcome to an inspiring episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht highlights the dedicated educators retiring from the Affton School District. Join us in honoring Amy Todt, Sheri Hogland, and Jeff Wulfert as they reflect on their remarkable careers, share cherished memories, and offer words of wisdom for the next generation of teachers. Through candid interviews, this episode captures the essence of community, resilience, and the profound impact of educators in shaping lives. Tune in to discover the stories and experiences that have defined their journey in education.

In this episode of the “Affton Unplugged” podcast, hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, the focus is on South Technical High School, a comprehensive career and technical education center located in St. Louis County. The program features Principal Dr. Jake Lohse alongside three senior students from Affton High School—Connor Lang, Owen Bell, and Natalie Jobe—who share their experiences in various career pathway programs. Each student discusses their career aspirations, involvement in extracurricular activities, and insights into what makes South Tech a valuable educational partner for high schools. The discussion highlights the variety of programs available, the significance of hands-on learning, and overall passion for technical trades among students. Dr. Lohse emphasizes South Tech’s role in supporting student goals, providing career and technical education not easily accessible in typical high school settings, and addressing local industry workforce needs. The discussion not only showcases the various programs available at South Tech but also illuminates the enthusiasm and dedication of the students participating in them. This episode of “Affton Unplugged” underlines the significance of career and technical education as a vital component of the educational landscape, aiming to equip students with the tools and experiences necessary for success in their chosen fields. The collaborative relationship between South Tech and partner schools demonstrates an invaluable approach to education, ensuring that students are prepared to thrive in an ever-evolving job market.

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, where we offer an abbreviated recap and reminisce about the unforgettable moments from the 20th Annual Affton Education Foundation Hall of Fame Gala. Held at the Judith Rethwisch Auditorium, this event celebrated not just the foundation's milestone anniversary but also Judy Rethwisch’s 60 years in teaching. Join us as we hear heartfelt stories and memories shared by esteemed guests and Affton alumni who honor the legacy and mission of the Affton Education Foundation in supporting teacher grants and student scholarships. This episode features Affton alumni Kyle Palacios, Angie Sykora, Tom Tran, Nick Fahs and Bill Thompson who highlight the teacher grant and student scholarship programs that the Affton Education Foundation supports. AEF has funded almost $500,000 in teacher grants and close to $1,000,000 in student scholarships. An added bonus in this episode is a first hand account of the rich AEF history and their 20 year journey as told by Judy Rethwisch and former superintendent Dr. Gay Tompkins.

Welcome to a special episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht takes you inside the exciting Dreams for Schools student showcase at Gotsch Intermediate School. Explore how students in grades three through five are designing their own video games in a remarkable 10-week after-school coding club session, aimed at making science, technology, engineering, art, and math accessible to young minds. Learn about the unique collaboration between Affton School District and the California-based nonprofit, Dreams for Schools, which is dedicated to sparking creativity and excitement for technology education. Hear from Executive Director Nithin Jilla and program coordinators on their mission to inspire elementary students and prepare them for the future. Meet the dedicated Affton facilitators, parents, and, most importantly, the students themselves, as they share their experiences, challenges, and ultimate achievements in this empowering initiative.

Welcome to the latest episode of Affton Unplugged, where we delve into the transformative STL CAPS program. Hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, this episode highlights a unique initiative giving Affton High School juniors and seniors a head start in high-skill, high-demand careers. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Tim Luecke, the Program Director, and students of Affton High School who are benefiting from this initiative. They share their experiences in medicine, engineering, business, and more, providing insights into how the program bridges high school learning with real-world professional environments. Through personal anecdotes and expert guidance, discover how STL CAPS equips students with essential skills, fosters professional relationships, and prepares them for future academic and career pursuits. Tune in to learn more about this pioneering approach to education that champions innovation and ambition.

Welcome to a special episode of Affton Unplugged, hosted by Superintendent Travis Bracht, where we shine a spotlight on the Affton School District Gifted Program. Join us as we converse with three dedicated gifted instructors representing Mesnier Primary School, Gotsch Intermediate School, and Rogers Middle School. Discover the unique approaches they use to nurture the academic and affective needs of gifted students. In this episode, learn about the specialized programs designed to challenge and support gifted learners. From coding adventures and paleontology digs to real-world problem-solving projects like Model UN and space exploration, the educators share their innovative teaching methods and memorable experiences. They emphasize the importance of developing critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and a love for learning among gifted students. Witness the stories of perseverance and success that define the Affton School District's commitment to gifted education. Whether through creative problem-solving in coding projects or the excitement of winning global competitions like Plant the Moon, this episode offers a deep dive into the impact and significance of gifted programs. Join us to celebrate the exceptional educators and students who make a difference in the Affton community.

Welcome to this special episode of Affton Unplugged, where we dive into the heart of the Affton School District's cherished tradition: the Affton Floor Hockey League. With over half a century of history, this league brings together kids of all ages and skill levels, nurturing not just future athletes, but a vibrant, inclusive community. Join Superintendent Travis Bracht as he introduces Edo Grozdanic, the steadfast director, and Steven George Michael Elgin, a passionate coach of the Red Pandas. Together, they reveal the stories, dedication, and joy that fuel this local gem, where every child from kindergarten to 12th grade is welcome. From the spirited rivalry between the Red Pandas and Blue Dragons to the cherished all-star games, discover how this league champions teamwork, growth, and affordability—an antidote to costly club sports. With heartfelt anecdotes and a look ahead to upcoming fundraisers and new youth athletic programs, this episode celebrates the community spirit that thrives in Affton every Saturday. Whether you're a floor hockey enthusiast or new to the sport, find out why Affton's approach is truly unique.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Affton Unplugged, where Superintendent Travis Bracht delves into the vibrant world of "Poetry Out Loud" at Affton High School. Join us as we unveil the voices behind this creative initiative, featuring English teacher Dr. Troy Kozak and a group of talented students who share their experiences and passion for poetry. Discover how this competition nurtures talent, fosters creativity, and brings together a community of poetry enthusiasts. From classroom competitions to district-level challenges, hear about the journey students embark on to express themselves through the beautiful art of poetry. Listen in for memorable stories, inspiring moments, and the transformative power of poetry that resonates throughout the Affton School District. Don't miss this celebration of words, creativity, and education—hallmarks of what makes Affton truly great.