Stronger Together

Most people in Nordonia know Dr. Szentkirályi as a teacher at the high school. What many may not know is the work he was doing beyond the classroom. As he prepares to retire, we take time to reflect on his career and the experiences that shaped his perspective. This conversation offers a deeper look at the impact he made both in Nordonia and beyond.

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Nordonia Hills City Schools Treasurer Kyle Kiffer. Kyle oversees the financial operations of the district and works closely with district leadership and the Board of Education to ensure responsible planning and use of taxpayer dollars. The conversation explores how school funding works in Ohio, how district budgets are built, and the work that happens behind the scenes to keep a school district financially stable. Kyle also shares how his experience auditing public entities across Ohio shaped his approach to school finance and what he sees as the biggest financial challenges facing public education today. It is an honest conversation about transparency, planning for the future, and the role strong financial leadership plays in supporting students, staff, and the community

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Ashley Turner, principal of Rushwood Elementary, for a relaxed conversation about her path in education and the people who shaped her along the way. Ashley shares what she learned starting in the classroom, how those experiences guide her leadership today, and what matters most to her as she works with students, staff, and families. We talk about the culture at Rushwood, the small moments that make the job meaningful, and the values she hopes students carry with them long after they leave elementary school. It is an honest look at leadership, growth, and the relationships that hold a school community together. Join us as we get to know Ashley Turner and the heart behind her work at Nordonia.

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Rushwood Elementary teacher Ethan Nario-Redmond to talk about his journey into education, his first year in Nordonia, and what it means to build real relationships with students. Ethan shares how a nontraditional path led him to the classroom, the lessons he learned during his rookie year, and the impact of being named Summit County Rookie of the Year. The conversation explores the power of mentorship, the importance of literacy and confidence in young learners, and the small moments that remind educators why their work matters. Ethan reflects on the support he received from colleagues at Rushwood, the connections he builds with students each day, and his hopes for the future as he continues to grow in the profession. This episode highlights the energy and purpose new educators bring to our schools and serves as a reminder that strong relationships remain at the heart of meaningful learning.

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Carrie Mitchner, a sixth grade math teacher at Lee Eaton Intermediate School. Carrie talks about what students really need at this stage, how she helps kids move past “I’m not a math person,” and the small classroom moves that build confidence over time. We also talk about why relationships matter in math, what has changed about teaching sixth grade, and what she hopes students carry with them long after they leave her class.

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, we sit down with Mitchel Federan, director of Center Stage Dance Studio in Northfield. Mitchel shares his journey from growing up in the studio to performing on Broadway and eventually returning home to lead a place that has shaped generations of students. The conversation explores how the arts build confidence, discipline, and belonging, and why community connections matter just as much as performance. It’s a thoughtful look at leadership, mentorship, and the role local organizations play in strengthening Nordonia.

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Scott Karlo, Executive Director of the Ohio Public School Advocacy Network, for a conversation about what it truly means to put the public back in public schools. This discussion moves beyond policy and headlines and focuses on ownership. Public schools exist because communities invest in them, care about them, and take responsibility for them. Scott shares why restoring that sense of ownership matters, how disengagement weakens schools over time, and what happens when communities step back into their role as active partners. The conversation speaks directly to Nordonia and to any community that believes strong schools depend on trust, involvement, and shared responsibility. It is a reminder that public education works best when the public sees schools not as a system to observe, but as an institution they own together.

In this episode, Casey Wright sits down with Nordonia High School science teacher Aaron Coleman for a conversation about the path that brought her to the classroom and the way she connects students to the world around them. Aaron talks about her early work at SeaWorld, how that experience shaped her approach to teaching, and why helping students understand the story behind the science matters to her. She also shares what drew her to Nordonia, what she values most about the district, and how she builds relationships that help students grow. It’s an easy, honest conversation with a teacher who brings curiosity, purpose, and steady commitment to her work each day.

In this episode, we sit down with Brenda Basch from Rushwood. She shares her path from growing up in Nordonia to returning as an educator, and talks about the people and moments that shaped her along the way. The conversation covers her work with students, what she loves about teaching, and why this community continues to matter to her. It’s an easy, thoughtful look at someone who gives a lot to our district.

In this episode of Stronger Together, Superintendent Casey Wright sits down with Angela Wojtecki, Nordonia’s District Library Media Specialist and 1:1 Integration Specialist. Angela shares how her work connects technology, literacy, and community in ways that inspire both students and staff. She talks about leading the “Knights of the Tech Table” initiative, helping teachers integrate technology in meaningful ways, and redefining what a school library can be in today’s digital world. The conversation highlights how innovation at Nordonia starts with collaboration—and how empowering students to create, explore, and share ideas strengthens the entire community. Listeners will hear how Angela’s passion for connection drives her work, from supporting digital literacy to amplifying student voice, and why she believes the heart of every innovation is people working together.

Episode Description: In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Debbie McNellie, a third-grade teacher at Rushwood Elementary and Trustee with the Nordonia Schools Foundation. Debbie shares her journey as an educator, her deep roots in the Nordonia community, and the lessons she’s learned from her students along the way. Together, they talk about what it means to teach with purpose, build strong relationships, and stay grounded in the values that make Nordonia Hills City Schools a special place to learn and work. Debbie’s story is one of connection, commitment, and heart — a reminder that we’re truly stronger together.

This episode features Keyshaun Smith, who recently joined Nordonia Hills City Schools as high school principal. He reflects on his journey in education, what brought him back to the community, and how he plans to lead with purpose. Listeners will hear about the lessons that shaped his career, his vision for Nordonia High School, and his commitment to creating opportunities for students to grow and succeed.

In this episode of Stronger Together, Superintendent Casey Wright talks with Nordonia Hills City Schools Business Manager Steve Marlow. From managing operations and facilities to ensuring that every decision supports student learning, Steve offers a grounded look at the work that often goes unseen but is essential to keeping the district running. Their conversation touches on the importance of collaboration, long-term planning, and staying focused on what’s best for kids. It’s a thoughtful discussion about leadership, responsibility, and the power of working together.

In this episode, we’re joined by Todd Stuart, Nordonia’s Director of Curriculum, for an honest and thoughtful conversation about the heart of teaching and learning. Todd reflects on his career path, shares his beliefs about curriculum, and explains how professional learning communities (PLCs) shape the work in our schools. We talk about what makes teaching complex, how our district supports collaboration, and why a strong instructional culture matters more than ever. It’s a look behind the curtain at the thinking that drives academic success in Nordonia.

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Chris Simmons, Nordonia High School’s Drama Director and proud alumnus. Chris shares his journey from student actor to director, reflecting on what it means to come full circle in the very program that shaped him. We explore the behind-the-scenes work that brings each production to life, the role of the arts in building confidence and community, and why theater continues to matter for today’s students. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of Nordonia Drama or new to the stage, this conversation offers a candid look at the passion and purpose driving one of our district’s most creative leaders.

In this episode of Stronger Together, Dave and I sit down with Mayor Nick Molnar—a proud Nordonia graduate, current parent, president of the Nordonia Hills Rotary Club, and mayor of Macedonia. We talk about what it means to lead in the same community where you grew up, the importance of strong city–school partnerships, and how service, family, and public leadership all intersect. From his days as a Nordonia student to his role today as a key partner in our schools’ success, Nick shares his perspective on working together to build a stronger, more connected community.

In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Al Huge — longtime history teacher, coach, and proud Nordonia graduate. From his early days walking the halls as a student to decades spent shaping young minds in the classroom and on the field, Al shares stories, insights, and reflections on what it means to grow up in a community and then give back to it. We talk teaching, coaching, and the power of consistency, and wrap it all up with a rapid-fire round that gives us a fun glimpse into the man behind the whiteboard.

In this episode of Nordonia Together, co-host Dave Sterling joins the conversation to share his journey as an involved parent, PTA member, and member of the Men of Rushwood. We talk about the importance of what makes Rushwood Elementary such a strong community, and how families across Nordonia are helping shape the student experience. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just thinking about getting involved, this episode is a reminder of the impact one person can have when they lead with heart.

In this episode of Nordonia Together, we sit down with Nordonia High School Principal Louise Teringo to talk about her journey through education—from teaching Spanish to leading schools in Twinsburg, Euclid, and now Nordonia. Louise shares what keeps her grounded, how she builds strong relationships with students and staff, and why school culture matters now more than ever. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, you'll walk away with a better understanding of what it takes to lead a high school with both heart and purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with longtime Nordonia High School associate principal Dave Broman—an educator whose name now graces the school cafeteria as The Broman Commons. Known for his unwavering positivity, quiet leadership, and deep commitment to students and staff, Dave reflects on his 23 years at Nordonia, the lessons that guided him, and the legacy he leaves behind. We talk about the importance of presence, the power of relationships, and why leading with gratitude can make all the difference. Whether you’re in education or simply appreciate stories of impact and integrity, this conversation is one worth hearing.

In this episode of Strong Together at Nordonia, we sit down with Nordonia alumni Catherine and Michaela Bruno—sisters, leaders, and the original founders of Knights Caring for Knights, one of our district’s most impactful student support programs. Over a decade ago, as high school students, Catherine and Michaela saw a need and decided to do something about it. What began as a simple idea to help fellow classmates has since grown into a trusted, long-standing program that supports Nordonia students and families during times of hardship. Now living and working out of state—Catherine as a Ph.D. student in Pennsylvania and Michaela as an elementary teacher in Seattle—the sisters reflect on their journey, the lessons they’ve learned, and the legacy they’ve left behind in the community they still proudly call home. Tune in to hear how compassion, initiative, and a strong sense of purpose helped two students create lasting change.

In this episode, Casey shares insight on the current state of the schools, what makes Nordonia a special place, and offers messages for both longtime and new residents. Dave joins the conversation to discuss the importance of community, the “Stronger Together” vision, and why some tough decisions had to be made. We’ll also look ahead to what’s next—and how you can help shape future episodes.

Episode 1: Getting to Know Superintendent Casey Wright Welcome to the debut episode of Stronger Together, hosted by community member Dave Sterling! This new podcast is designed to keep the Nordonia community informed about what’s happening in our schools while breaking down some of the misconceptions about how the district operates. Each episode will feature conversations with key figures in our schools, offering a closer look at the people and decisions shaping Nordonia Hills City Schools. To kick things off, Dave sits down with Superintendent Casey Wright. In this episode, we’ll explore Casey’s career path—how he got started in education, the journey that led him to Nordonia, and what it’s like to lead the district. He’ll share insights into his daily responsibilities, what he enjoys most about his role, and some of the challenges that come with the job. Beyond the office, who is Casey Wright? We’ll discuss his life outside of Nordonia Schools, his hobbies, and even put him through some rapid-fire questions inspired by the famous James Lipton questionnaire. What’s his favorite word? What sound does he love? And what profession would he choose if he weren’t in education? Tune in for a candid, engaging conversation as we launch Stronger Together with host Dave Sterling!