Shows
Ruff Draft PodcastEpisode 31: Texas HB 1481In this episode, we unpack Texas House Bill 1481 and its sweeping impact on student cell phone use in schools. Learn how the new law will affect school policies, discipline, and device management starting in the 2025–26 school year.The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-07-2811 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 30: Mastering MobileMindThis year, our district is using MobileMind for all compliance training—and in this quick solo episode, I’m walking you through exactly how to get started. Whether you’re logging in for the first time or trying to track your progress, I’ll cover the essentials: accessing your dashboard, finding assigned courses, and submitting your completions. Save yourself time (and stress) by learning the tips and tricks that make MobileMind easier to use. Let’s knock out that compliance training—together!The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episo...2025-07-2110 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 29: International Society for Technology in EducationJoin Mike as he interviews Saicy on her recent experience presenting at the ISTE Live '25 Conference in San Antonio this summer! We'll dive deep into what ISTE is, how to prepare for a presentation, our favorite parts of conferences, and more! The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-07-1538 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 28: Senior Year Survival Guide: FAFSA, Scholarships & MoreSenior year can feel like a whirlwind for students and their families—but you don’t have to navigate it alone! In this episode, we sit down with Alex Jones, a high school counselor, to unpack everything seniors need to know before the school year kicks off. We’ll cover key timelines for FAFSA, applying for scholarships, college application tips, and strategies to stay organized during this busy time. Whether you’re a parent or a student, this conversation is packed with practical advice to set you up for success and make senior year a little less stressful.The th...2025-07-0734 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 27: CybersecurityIn this episode, host Mike Neal breaks down practical, no-nonsense cybersecurity habits that anyone—whether in public service, education, or the private sector—can adopt to protect their organization. From avoiding phishing traps to securing both digital and physical spaces, this episode delivers essential guidance in a clear, relatable format. Learn why cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility and how small actions can prevent big breaches.Whether you're an IT pro or a daily tech user, this episode will help you build a stronger cybersecurity mindset.The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this p...2025-06-3030 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 26: Think Remarkable! In this episode, we dive into Think Remarkable by Guy Kawasaki—a powerful guide to becoming extraordinary in work and life. Join us as we unpack key takeaways from the book, including the mindset shifts, personal branding tips, and purpose-driven strategies that Kawasaki shares to help individuals stand out in a crowded world. Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired to embrace your own journey to remarkability. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflec...2025-06-231h 09Ruff Draft PodcastEpisode 25: Using ChatGPT + Canva in EducationIn this episode, Saicy and Mike break down how educators can pair ChatGPT with Canva to save time, boost creativity, and better engage students and families. From lesson planning to hallway displays, they share Canva basics, favorite tools, and the secret sauce for designing smarter—not harder. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-06-1659 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 24: Beyond the Fads: Real Talk About Health, Diets & Lifestyle ChangeIn a world of cabbage soup cleanses and carb-free promises, how do you actually build a healthy life that lasts? In this episode, we get real about fad diets, teacher burnout, and the pressure to “do it all.” Mike shares his experience with Whole30—what worked, what didn’t—and drops a super practical, budget-friendly tip for planning healthy meals. If you've ever tried to balance wellness with work, this one’s for you. Spoiler: your health matters more than your job. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episod...2025-06-0951 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 23: Showing Up Matters In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rachel and Katie from Communities In Schools to explore how CIS is transforming student lives by addressing the root causes of chronic absenteeism. From food insecurity to mental health challenges, we dive into the ways CIS site coordinators provide wraparound support that keeps students in school and thriving. Learn how this nationwide movement connects students, schools, and communities—and why showing up is only half the battle. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily refl...2025-06-021h 11Ruff Draft PodcastEpisode 22: Lighting the WayIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with student leaders from the Intermediate campus Junior Lighthouse Team to learn how they’re promoting the Habits of Highly Effective People through their actions and initiatives. From school-wide activities to modeling positive habits, these young leaders are lighting the way for a stronger school culture and brighter future. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-05-2632 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 21: Class of 2025In this special graduation morning episode, hear from the incredible seniors of the Class of 2025 as they share what’s next after high school—college, careers, military, or other exciting adventures. It’s a celebration of dreams, hard work, and bright futures. Congrats, Bulldogs! 🖤🐾 The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-05-2210 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 20: Inside Junior High Life In this special episode, we sit down with a junior high student to explore what school life is like through his eyes. From favorite subjects and influential teachers to hobbies, goals, and dream travel destinations, this conversation is full of heart, humor, and honesty. Tune in for a glimpse into the mind of a middle schooler navigating academics, friendships, and big aspirations—all while answering some fun and surprising questions. You won’t want to miss this one! The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not...2025-05-1925 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 19: A Family Legacy at Clyde CISD In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Paula—a dedicated Clyde CISD staff member—and her two daughters, Mikayla and Tara, both soon to be proud Bulldog graduates. As Mikayla prepares to walk the stage and Tara reflects on her own journey, the trio shares stories of tradition, growth, and the lasting impact of being raised in the heart of Clyde. From senior milestones to full-circle moments, this is a celebration of family, community, and the Bulldog legacy that spans generations. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the...2025-05-1231 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 18: Health Heroes: Celebrating Our Incredible Clyde NursesIn honor of Nurse Appreciation Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the amazing women who care for our students every single day. Join us as we chat with Clyde CISD’s very own nurse team—Holly, Shelby, and Tiffany (we missed you, Jessica!)—who serve across every campus with compassion, skill, and a whole lot of heart. From scraped knees to tough calls, they’ve seen it all. Tune in for stories, laughs, and some heartfelt moments you won’t want to miss!The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals...2025-05-0720 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 17: Full Circle: Honoring Our Roots and Our TeachersIn this special Teacher Appreciation Week episode, we celebrate the heart of Clyde CISD — our teachers — through the voices of alumni who have come full circle. These proud Clyde graduates returned home to teach, lead, and inspire in the very district that shaped them. Join us as they share heartfelt reflections and stories honoring the educators who made a lasting impact on their journeys. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyde CISD. 2025-05-0516 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 16: More Than a Month: Supporting Mental Health in Our SchoolsMay is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to speak up, break down stigma, and center well-being in our schools and communities. In this special episode of the Ruff Draft Podcast, we’re joined by Clyde High School Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor, Bethany Odom.Together, we dive into the evolving conversation around student mental health, common challenges high schoolers face, and how educators, families, and peers can offer meaningful support. From social media stress to burnout prevention for teachers, this episode is packed with insights, practical tips, and encouragement for anyone navigating school life.Let’...2025-04-2858 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 15: Unlocking DifferentiationIn this episode of the Ruff Draft Podcast, we dive into Diffit, an AI-powered tool designed to make differentiation easier, faster, and more effective for every educator. Whether you’re prepping for STAAR, building literacy across subjects, or looking for meaningful support for ELL, SPED, GT, or CTE students—Diffit has you covered.🎙️ What we cover:What Diffit is and why it’s a teacher’s new best friendReal examples for reading, math, science, social studies, and CTEHow Diffit supports all learners (ELLs, SPED, GT, and more)Demo walkthrough + time-saving pro tipsOur favorite hidd...2025-04-2141 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 14: Ensuring a Safe Learning Environment In this episode, we sit down with our Superintendent and School Resource Officer to talk all things school safety—from daily protocols to long-term strategies for creating a secure and supportive learning environment. Learn how our district approaches safety with intention, the role of relationship-building in prevention, and how students, staff, and families can all play a part. This is an essential listen for anyone who cares about the well-being of our schools! The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the offi...2025-04-1444 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 13: Beyond the Books: The Library as the Heart of the School!Did you know that school libraries have their own set of standards, just like classrooms do? In this episode, we chat with Makenzie Bingham, Clyde CISD’s District Librarian, who holds a master’s in library science and is a certified librarian. Makenzie shares how the library is more than just books—it’s a hub for student learning, teacher support, and innovative resources. Tune in to discover the many ways the library enriches education and fosters a love of learning for all! #RuffDraftPodcast #SchoolLibrary #BeyondTheBooks #EducationMatters #LibraryLove The thoughts, opinions, a...2025-04-0748 minRuff Draft PodcastEpisode 12: Champions for Students – A Conversation with Our Award-Winning CounselorsIn this special episode of the Ruff Draft Podcast, we’re honored to chat with two incredible Clyde CISD counselors who have been recognized as Region 14’s best! 🏆✨Jennifer Wilson – 2023-2024 Region 14 Elementary Small School Counselor of the YearCallie Van Hoff – 2024-2025 Region 14 Small School Secondary Counselor of the YearFrom guiding elementary students through their first school experiences to supporting secondary students as they prepare for the future, these counselors are making a profound impact every day. 🖤Join us as we dive into...2025-03-311h 00Ruff Draft PodcastEpisode 11: Enchanted Algorithms and the Future of LearningWhat if your classroom had a touch of magic — powered by AI? In this episode, we take a laid-back look at how artificial intelligence could transform education in ways that feel almost…otherworldly. From smart tools that practically read your mind to tech that feels like it belongs in a fantasy novel, we’re diving into the fun, weird, and maybe even wonderful side of AI in schools. The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals featured in the episode and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of Clyd...2025-03-171h 04