Shows
The 9th Grade ExperienceGame, Set, Match: Chris Stone Aces District Tennis Championship - S6E11Join us as we chat with Chris Stone, the freshman tennis sensation from Emmaus High School, who recently won the District 11 boys single tennis championship. Chris shares his journey through 9th grade, detailing how his brother’s presence in high school eased his transition. Despite initial challenges with the workload and school size, Chris quickly adapted, finding his stride both academically and athletically.
Chris dives deep into his tennis season, highlighting the mix of nerves and confidence that fueled his performance. He discusses the fast-paced nature of the season, from tryouts to competitive matches, and how his fa...
2024-06-1424 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceISTE 2023 Insights to Navigate Your 9th Grade Year: S5, E17In this special episode recorded live from the Pennsylvania Convention Center at the end of June 2023, we sat down with 37 attendees of the 2023 ISTE Conference, including educators, industry experts, and students, to gather their best tech tips, time management hacks and other strategies to assist with a successful 9th grade experience.
The guests on today's episode come from diverse perspectives from all over the world offering quick, innovative approaches and personal anecdotes about what they feel it takes to excel during your freshman year.
The final 10 minutes of the episode features a longer conversation with...
2023-07-0336 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceCole Cast, Volume 4: Reflections on Freshman Year - S5E16It has been almost six months since his last appearance, so we could not close out the 2022-2023 school year without having Cole Stuchko appear one more time on the podcast to reflect on his 9th grade campaign.
Cole has been busy since December finishing up the basketball season, taking midterm exams, trying out and making the varsity tennis team and completing the year with final exam preparation. In this episode he talks about the importance of starting the year off strong to make the end of your first year easier and making sure you complete each...
2023-06-1120 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 5, Episode 10: Overcoming Struggle Moments with Chris SingletonChris Singleton’s personal story has a 9th grade year that isn’t much different than your typical student. He wanted to play varsity sports, found an interest in books, got a low grade in a class for the first time, and had a first relationship. The years that followed sent Chris on many different paths, eventually winding up at Kalahari Resorts on February 14, 2023, to give a Keynote speech at the PETE&C technology conference. He then stuck around for a brief chat recorded for the podcast.
Chris had a brief career in baseball, being drafted by the...
2023-02-2123 min
The Mr. Mike ShowInterview with Chris StuchkoChris Stuchko is a special education teacher at a large suburban high school. His focus is 9th grade science and transition to high school from middle school, and he primarily works in a co-teaching setting. He is the founder and host of the 9th Grade Experience Podcast, which focuses on stories of 9th grade stories with student voices, teacher experts, and other experts. Prior to teaching, Chris majored in Journalism and wrote for a sports newspaper in West Chester, PA.
2023-01-0947 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 5, Episode 7: The Cole Cast, Volume 3, featuring Cole StuchkoIt took until the first snow day of the 2022-2023 school year on December 15, 2022, but we are finally back with the latest edition of the Cole Cast, featuring Cole Stuchko. It has been several months since we last spoke and a lot has happened during that time. Topics we covered in the episode include the need to stay on top of classwork as the academic rigor increases, how to work back when you don't get the grades that you want in a certain class, highlights of the beginning of the school year, and what it means to represent your s...
2022-12-2019 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 5, Episode 3: The Cole Cast, Volume 2, Featuring Cole StuchkoThe first day of school presents challenges to all high school students, but especially to the newest members of the school community. To get the instant reaction to the first day of the 2022-23 school year for the Class of 2026, we catch up with Cole Stuchko for the August edition of the Cole Cast. We spoke about the benefit of walking through his schedule before the first day, what the lunch experience was like, and overall impressions of Emmaus High School. Stay tuned all the way through the episode for a special announcement about an opportunity for some free 9...
2022-09-0116 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 5, Episode 1: The Cole Cast, Volume 1 featuring Cole StuchkoWelcome to Season 5 of the 9th Grade Experience!
In the summer kickoff of new episodes to gear up for the 2022-2023 school year and new season, the podcast is debuting a new feature: a regular interview segment with my son, Cole Stuchko, who will be entering 9th grade. He has agreed to come at least monthly to give us a first-hand account of the what life is like as an Emmaus High School freshmen. On this episode, we talk about his summer preparations for the new school year, seeing his preliminary schedule, and how he feels about...
2022-07-2119 min
RechargED EducatorsCo-Teaching: The Power Of Two Working As One With Chris StuchkoCo-Teaching can be a powerful tool to support students in the classroom. In this episode, 9th grade teacher and podcaster, Chris Stuchko, dives into what is needed for a co-teaching classroom to have success. You can also hear how Kyle's family nearly flipped a canoe and it creates a great example of the importance of communication for you and your teaching partner.You can connect with Chris @chrisstuchko and feel free to check out his unique podcast, The 9th Grade Experience wherever you get your podcasts.You can check out Kyle's other podcast, The Parents...
2022-06-081h 09
The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 26: What Can I Do After High School? Lessons from the 2022 EHS College FairAs the 9th grade year is quickly coming to an end, it is only natural to think about what is ahead ...
A relaxing summer?
A first job?
A fun vacation?
College, trade school, military service, or an apprenticeship program?
It's never too early to think about what you might want to do after high school and on this episode, we recap the 2022 Emmaus High School College Fair, held Thursday, April 28, 2022. Representatives from over 120 post-secondary options were available to assist students in learning more about what they could do after...
2022-05-0123 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 22: EHS Shave for the Brave Honored Kid Sam MackaravitzWe are privileged to share the story of one of this year’s EHS Shave for the Brave “Honored Kids,” current EHS freshman Sam Mackaravitz. At the time of the recording, Sam is two years cancer free in his battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).
In this episode, Sam talks about
His transition to EHS and participation in the marching band
How did he become associated with Shave for the Brave and become an “Honored Kid”
What does an event like Shave for the Brave mean to him
What he wants people to understand about what he has gon...
2022-03-0823 min
The Shut Up and Teach PodcastA Conversation with Chris StuchkoChris Stuchko is a high school, special education teacher from Pennsylvania. He sat down to chat with me about teaching, podcasting, and more. I'm sure you will be encouraged by this conversation, as you hear how Chris works to amplify student voices and experiences.
Chris Stuchko: https://twitter.com/chrisstuchko?s=20
The 9th Grade Experience: https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/
Elijah Carbajal: https://twitter.com/carbaeli
2022-01-1938 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 15: A First Welcome to the Class of 2026Welcome Emmaus High School Class of 2026! Though we haven’t had our first major snow of the school year, thoughts are slowly beginning to turn to fall and the arrival of the next group of freshmen who will roam the halls of EHS. The first in-person introduction to EHS came on January 11, 2022, at the counseling department’s 8th to 9th grade guidance information night. On this episode, hear from current LMMS and Eyer students about what they are looking forward to at EHS and advisors/representatives from groups detailing the support and opportunities offered to first-year students.
To l...
2022-01-1210 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 14: Student Spotlight with EHS Field Hockey Players Autum Kernechel and Lauren KushmaIt’s normal for high school varsity athletes to put pressure on themself. Being a freshman on a varsity team only magnifies that intensity. Now, think about the expectations of being a first-year member of the nationally-ranked, defending state champion EHS field hockey team.
Autum Kernechel and Lauren Kushma cracked through and earned a spot on the varsity squad in what turned out to be a historic year for the program. The team celebrated a second-consecutive and 14th overall state championship along with coach Sue Butz-Stavin’s 46th year of coaching capped by her national-record 1,000th victory. On t...
2021-12-2320 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 13: Reflection from Pre-Service Teacher Kayla CanningDuring the course of the fall semester, Kayla Canning, a senior, pre-service teacher from Cedar Crest College, shadowed me in the classroom, which was one of my first experiences with.a pre-service teacher. On today's episode Kayla will give her impressions and thoughts of what it's like as somebody that's learning to become a teacher, especially with 9th grade students. She also honestly looks back on her own ninth grade experience and assesses some of her decisions during that year and how those influenced her choice to be a teacher.
We have a couple shout outs!
2021-12-1020 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 12: Attitude of Gratitude 2021As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it's a great time to look back and reflect on the many positives in our lives for the third annual Attitude of Gratitude special episode. Over 50 members, and one four-legged friend, of the Emmaus High School community took time during this busy period of the school year to share a little bit about what makes them #EastPennProud and thankful. Ranging from just being back in the school building with students to feeling welcomed as a new student to supportive colleagues and friends, we hope the messages of gratitude in this episode will inspire you...
2021-11-2317 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 11: Global Citizens ClubWith over 2,800 students, Emmaus High School is a community of learners from many different cultural backgrounds. The focus of the Global Citizens Club is to assist students in learning about and becoming actively engaged in promoting a globally-minded consciousness and worldview. On this episode we hear from club members Britney Cordero, Cecilia Christ, Shiv Patel, and Ariana Ruiz describe the ways that the group strives to help expand student's understanding on the importance of celebrating the many cultures at EHS. They do this through different themed events, learning opportunities, and fundraisers to make connections to people all over the...
2021-11-1226 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 10: Student Spotlight - Will BuckWhen entering 9th grade, some students choose to ease into this transitional time to get their feet under them by limiting their activities and focusing on school.
Will Buck is not one of those students.
He is currently participating on two school sports teams during the fall season: varsity football as the kickoff specialist and JV soccer as a goalie. He is taking a demanding course load, full of upper-level honors classes. He is also one of the first students to reach out on his own to be interviewed on this podcast.
In...
2021-11-0419 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 9: Pennsylvania Council of Teacher of English Language Arts Conference RecapThis recording is from a roundtable discussion during a session at the 2021 Pennsylvania Council of Teachers of English and Language Arts Conference held October 22, 2021 in Harrisburg, Pa. This was a wide-ranging conversation about the impact that 9th grade English class can have on students during their remaining years of high school and beyond. Themes of connectivity, failure, and recovery came through many of the answers from four English teachers from across the state. The major questions addressed during the conversation included
What was your 9th Grade English class experience?
How can we encourage students during their 9th grade...
2021-10-2540 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 8: Preparing for Homecoming and Taking ChancesIt's time to get ready for Homecoming on this week's episode! It is hard to believe that we have just finished our 6th week of school and reached the halfway point of the first marking period. Listen in for strategies on finishing the grading period strong or even rebounding from a rocky start, the events and themes of homecoming week, and a reminder at the end that it is OK to change your mind and take chances. We are always looking for students to appear on the podcast, so if you are doing something awesome, reach out and tell...
2021-10-0809 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 7: The Counseling Suite with Mrs. Demchak and Mr. McInerneyIt has been a month of great adjustments for the members of Emmaus High School's Class of 2025. In addition to the normal growing pains of entering high school, they have confronted a new block schedule, continued health and safety procedures due to Covid-19 and for many, reacclimating themselves to being in a school building for the first time since March 2020. To help us work through it all with helpful tips and strategies, our 9th grade school counselors Mrs. Demchak and Mr. McInerney join the podcast.
In addition to advice for dealing with current situations, the counselors highlight...
2021-09-2422 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 6: Reflections on the 20th Anniversary of September 11, 2001For students at Emmaus High School and around the country, the events of September 11, 2001, are history experienced through other's stories and images. Students rely on these recollections to gain perspective to the tragic events that rocked the country on that the day and the weeks after. To commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9-11 we hear first-hand accounts from EHS staff members about how the events impacted the students in their classroom or themselves as high school students.
Listen to reflections from:
Mrs. Burk - School Counselor, who was a 9th grade student at Liberty HS (5:10)
2021-09-101h 15The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 5: Opening Week Student ReflectionsIt was a quite the first week back for the Class of 2025 at Emmaus High School. In addition to all of the first-week jitters that accompany entry into high school, a major, record-breaking storm caused a 2-hour weather delay. In this episode, hear from students Cyrus Mackey and Prince Scille as they give you a first-hand account on a memorable first week back to school.
For all previous episodes and to leave a comment or voicemail that can be used in a future episode, visit www.9thgradeexperience.com
2021-09-0509 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 4: Freshman Walk Through 2021One of the biggest worries from incoming students is navigating the many halls of Emmaus High School. On this episode you will hear from five students who stopped to chat with us during a building tour opportunity leading up to the first day of school Monday, August 30. Thanks to Tucker Evans, Derek Herman, Faith Riley, Jadon Pierre-Philippe, and Sarah Lorenzo for stopping to share their tips and strategies on finding their way around.
2021-08-2711 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 3: Freshman Orientation with 9th Grade Assistant Principal Jordan FortierFreshman orientation at EHS is scheduled for Monday, August 16 beginning at 8 am. In order to get answers to your last-minute questions, 9th grade assistant principal Jordan Fortier joins us today on the podcast. In this episode, we talk about
* The schedule for orientation day
* Building tours for all grade levels on orientation day and the remainder of the week
* Information about clubs and activities
* Chromebook upgrade and exchange
* The schedule for the beginning of the school year
* How to prepare yourself before the first day of school
2021-08-1336 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 2: Career Readiness with Worcester Red Sox Announcer Josh MaurerWhat would it be like as a freshman in high school at the same time as a future NBA Hall of Famer? In this episode, you will hear Worcester Red Sox Radio Announcer Josh Maurer tell what it was like to "share" the halls of Lower Merion High School with then senior Kobe Bryant. Maurer talks about how some of the experiences during that year led him to what has become a near 20-year professional sports broadcasting career.
Other topics Maurer discusses include:
* Involvement in media, sports, and drama in high school
* Creating o...
2021-08-0936 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4, Episode 1: Freshman Throwback with Owen Hook Class of 2021 and A Look Back at the 2020-2021 School YearWelcome to the Class of 2025 and to the first full show of Season 4! The beginning of this episode features Class of 2021 graduate Owen Hook, who talked about entering 9th grade as a brand-new student to the district. He found himself through academics and activities and will move on to Millersville University in a few weeks. In the second part of the episode, we take a look back at the 2020-2021 school year with over 40 responses from the Class of 2024 about how their year went, what they learned about themselves, tips for upcoming 9th graders, and what they would like...
2021-07-3025 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 4 Preview - Advice From the Class of 2021The 9th Grade Experience is gearing up for Season 4 and in this preview episode we got a little help from several members of the class of 2021 to give some tips that incoming 9th graders can use from Day 1. Listen for full-length episodes coming soon!
2021-07-2303 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 34: 5th Grade Experience Passion ProjectsOn this special episode of the 9th Grade Experience we take it back to elementary school, as we hear 5th grade students at Wescosville Elementary share their passion projects. Thanks to Mrs. Feher, one of the 5th grade teachers, for reaching out to the podcast to ask for assistance in helping her students record their work in audio form. In addition to the background information on the purpose of the projects, Feher also shared her own freshmen year story along with hopes for her current student's future school careers.
In sticking with the theme of the podcast, a...
2021-06-0147 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 33: Freshmen Throwback with Grace Comfort, Class of 2021Grace Comfort, Class of 2021, has an impressive list of accomplishments displayed on her #2021EHSGradSpotlight poster that has been promoted through various East Penn School District social media accounts over the last few months. She serves as the president of Peers Assisting Learning Support (PALS), Student Government Association Secretary and EPSD School Board Representative, and National Honor Society member among many other things.
But most importantly, Grace is a strong self-advocate. During a Genius Hour project in middle school, Grace investigated her own learning challenges and eventually discovered she had dyslexia. While transitioning to high school, Grace spent h...
2021-05-2438 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 32: 2nd Anniversary Special Episode with Students Organizing Against RacismFor the second anniversary of the 9th Grade Experience Podcast, we highlight the work of freshmen Elizabeth "Tami" Adesanya and Brasciana "Brassy" Ford in the establishment of the newest student group Students Organizing Against Racism (SOAR). Along with faculty advisor, Eyer librarian Mrs. Magro, Tami and Brassy are working to bring awareness and change to the mindsets of the Emmaus High School community through information and advocacy about what it means to be a person of color. Topics discussed include:
The purpose behind SOAR
What does it mean to be "anti-racist"
How do we involve and engage students...
2021-05-1744 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 31: Teacher Appreciation Week 2021This week, we give a special shout out to our amazing teachers here at Emmaus High School as we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week! We hear from three of our outstanding faculty members - Mrs. Horner, Mr. Remaly, and Mr. Iobst - as they give a little background about themselves while attempting to make connections to their 9th grade year and what influenced them to become a teacher. We asked each teacher the following questions:
1. Did something during your 9th grade year influence your decision to become a teacher?
2. What do you love about your job?
2021-05-0727 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 30: Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference (PETE&C) EditionThis special edition of the podcast was recorded on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at the virtual Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference (PETE&C). The session titled “9th Grade Experience - PETE&C Edition” was held on the final day of the 4-day event which is a “statewide event that provides quality programs focused on technology in the educational field.”
During this interactive session that featured educators from across the state, some of the topics covered included
Attendees and their 9th grade experience
Anticipated technology knowledge for students entering high school
Expansion of the use of technolo...
2021-04-2233 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 29: Freshmen Throwback with Class of 2021 President Brendan BaigBrendan Baig has quite the resume. He is the current Class of 2021 president. He is a National Honor Society member. He is a member of the Track and Field program. He founded S.A.V.E. (Students Advocating Vape Elimination) and participated in several organizations and clubs. In the fall of 2021, he will be attending the prestigious CALArts program, with the intention of majoring in film composition in order to compose music for films.
But, as we learn in this episode, the story behind Brendan’s resume is way more impactful than the words on the paper. He...
2021-04-1539 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 28: Jessica Lahey - The Addiction InoculationThis short episode is a non-released excerpt from a December 2020 interview with New York Times best-selling author Jessica Lahey, whose new book, The Addiction Inoculation, was released on Tuesday, April 6. We only scratched the surface in discussing the book, which according to her website "helps parents and educators understand the roots of substance abuse and identify who is most at risk for addiction, and offers practical steps for prevention."
To learn more about Lahey:
Listen to our full episode: https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-3-episode-16-new-york-times-best-selling-author-and-educator-jessica-lahey/
Website: https://www.jessicalahey.com/
T...
2021-04-0606 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 27: #EHSCareerMonth Remix with Brian KoppelmanToday's episode is the final installment of the 3-part #EHSCareerMonth podcast series, as we remix last March's episode with screenwriter, director, filmmaker, and podcaster Brian Koppelman. Best known for his work on the movies Ocean's 13 and Rounders, as well as the Showtime show Billions, Koppelman gives practical advice that anyone can implement today in order to grow and develop as students toward whatever their potential career may be.
For the original, full-audio only episode, go back to Season 2, Episode 20: https://www.9thgradeexperience.com/season-2-episode-20-career-readiness-with-brian-koppelman/
REMINDERS
Don't forget to enter the contest f...
2021-03-2715 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 26: Coronavirus Update Week 52 - What You Have Learned in the Last YearIt is hard to believe that it has been over one year since the last time that the entire student body of Emmaus High School has been in the building together at one time. This week we take a look back on the past year as we hear reflections from several students who participated on our message board answering the question: What have you learned about yourself in the last year? There was a wide-range of answers showing the interests and growth of our 9th grade students.
We also try a new feature by starting off the...
2021-03-1914 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 25: #EHSCareerMonth Advice From EHS GradsWe are close to the halfway point of #EHSCareerMonth and on this episode we have remix of two earlier episodes of the podcast featuring EHS graduates Lisa MacDonald '14 and Senator Clarence Lam '99. We pulled out great career advice for students at all grade levels who may be interested in starting their own business like Lisa or mixing multiple areas of interest to arrive in a career like Clarence.
Don't forget to check your Class of 2024 Schoology page on how to access all of the #EHSCareerMonth speakers and activities and share your pictures of career readiness...
2021-03-1216 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 24: Boys Freshmen BasketballThe Emmaus Boys and Girls Freshman Basketball teams have recently finished seasons unlike any other due to Covid-19 restrictions. Through masks and in spite of missing out on traditional team-bonding activities, the teams persevered to finish "full" 10-game seasons against other Lehigh County schools.
On this episode, we hear from Jametric Harris, Daniel Rohlsen, Matthew Volquez and Teagan McCourt about the ups and downs of the boys' season, how a commitment to defense led to a season of success, and the confidence and swagger that comes as a team rolls to an undefeated 10-0 season.
Don...
2021-03-0520 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 23: Freshman Girls BasketballThe Emmaus Boys and Girls Freshman Basketball teams have recently finished seasons unlike any other due to Covid-19 restrictions. Through masks and in spite of missing out on traditional team-bonding activities, the teams persevered to finish "full" 10-game seasons against other Lehigh County schools.
On this episode, we hear from Alexis Krum, Taylor Gitski and Juliana Stichter about the ups and downs of the girls season, the pressure when each game feels like it could be their last for the season, and when it finally felt like the team came together as one unit.
Don't fo...
2021-03-0520 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 22: #EHSCareerMonthWhere will your path lead? On this episode, School Counselor Mrs. Grim gives us all the important information to assist students, staff and parents on the road to answering that that question as Emmaus High School kicks off March Career Month. She assists everyone in where to go to find the calendar of speakers, biographies on each presenter, and how to sign up through Naviance to attend the sessions.
As an added bonus, thanks to the counseling department, we will be giving out prizes to students and staff as they display examples of career readiness. Take a...
2021-02-2615 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 21: School and Professional Counselor, Journalist and Podcast Host Phyllis FagellOn this episode we are joined by licensed clinical professional counselor, certified professional school counselor, journalist, and podcast host Phyllis Fagell to talk about the current challenges students are facing as they begin the process of transitioning from middle school to high school during the pandemic. Her book Middle School Matters: the 10 Key Skills Needs to Thrive in Middle School and Beyond - and How Parents Can Help gives actionable steps for students, parents, and teachers to develop the important skills necessary to grow inside and outside the classroom. Phyllis also shares her own memorable 9th grade experiences and...
2021-02-1936 min
The 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 20: EPSD Mental Health Symposium 2021With an even greater emphasis during these unprecedented times, student mental health has gained a heightened awareness as students face the challenges of the world around them. On this episode, we preview the 2021 EPSD Virtual Mental Health Symposium being held February 15 through 28 which hopes to begin helping parents and members of the community understand more about this topic.
Co-chair members Amy Williams, Communities in Schools at Emmaus High School; Stephanie Cignarella, School Psychologist at Emmaus High School; and Lisa Shirvinski, School Counselor at Lower Macungie Middle School, detail all of the amazing opportunities to learn about a v...
2021-02-1232 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 19: Snow Day ShenanigansDuring the first few days of February, the Lehigh Valley got walloped with over 27 inches, making it the second biggest snowstorm on record. It gave the freshmen of Emmaus High School an opportunity for 2 snow days -- no Zoom, no Schoology, and no work! We asked students what they did to take advantage of historic weather and on this mini-episode we hear some of their awesome responses about their time in the snow.
2021-02-0605 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 18: Second Semester Reset ButtonThis past week saw Emmaus High School finally reach the 2nd half of our 2020-2021 school year. Due to our current block schedule, It came with a different opportunity than most years, as students, teachers, and parents alike had a chance to hit the reset button, beginning new classes with the potential for a fresh, improved outlook on finishing the school term. In this mini-episode, Mr. Stuchko takes some thoughts from our Schoology Class of 2024 message board about how the year has been going, focuses on things to be grateful for and gives ideas on how to turn around...
2021-01-3008 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 17: Student Spotlight - Grant GallagherOn this episode, we catch up with student Grant Gallagher, whose post on our podcast message board for the Class of 2024, invited us to tell his story of how Covid-19 impacted him and his family earlier this year. Gallagher, who is currently enrolled in the Jasper Learning Initiative Program, discussed both the physical and mental strains that students encounter as they battle through this illness. Gallagher also talked about how, even in a hybrid setting, he has found a sense of belonging and growth through academics and activities at EHS.
Production note: Gallagher disclosed information about his...
2021-01-2119 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 16: New York Times Best-Selling Author and Educator Jessica LaheyJessica Lahey is a New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, keynote speaker, wife, and mother. But at her core, she is an educator. She has worked with a wide variety of students at all levels from sixth through twelfth grade. In this interview, she gives tips and strategies from her teaching career and her 2015 book “The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed” for students, teachers, and parents to apply during that all-important 9th grade year.
Where to find Jessica online:
Website: https://www.jessicalahey.com/
2021-01-0730 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 15: Freshman Year Perspectives from Chicago and New JerseySometimes it is fun to look outside of our school community to see what other students around the country are experiencing during their 9th grade year. During this holiday break, I chatted with my nieces, Catalina and Maddy, about their freshmen year experience. Catalina, who is attending the largest high school in Chicago and second largest in the state of Illinois, has not stepped foot in her school since a tour last spring; Maddy is attending a high school in Central New Jersey that has been in a hybrid setting since the start of the school year. They share st...
2021-01-0123 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 14: New Year's Resolutions for 2021In our final episode of 2020, you will hear from close to 40 members of our Emmaus High School community talk about ways they will look to improve themselves in the classroom and beyond in the new year. If you are struggling to come up a resolution, we provide tips on how to arrive at a personal goal to jumpstart your 2021.
Resource: https://www.cultofpedagogy.com/resolutions/
2020-12-2316 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 13: The Counseling Suite with Mrs. Demchak and Mr. McInerneyOur 9th Grade School Counselors Mrs. Demchak and Mr. McInerney return to the show this week to help you finish up the calendar year 2020 as strong as possible and give you momentum toward a much needed new year. Some of the topics we covered included
A recap of the first 3+ months of the school year (marking periods, grades, timelines, and deadlines)
Tips and strategies for improving your learning remotely
The importance of reaching out for help and being your own advocate
Scheduling for next school year, which starts on Thursday, December 17
2020-12-1027 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 12: A Thanksgiving Attitude of Gratitude 2020As we approach the holiday season and the end of 2020, it is a great time to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for here at Emmaus High School on the second annual Attitude of Gratitude special episode. There are many people, either in a classroom, on the field or court, or in the school’s many offices that work together to make the transition from middle school to high school as smooth and successful as possible for all students. On this episode you hear from students through Zoom interviews or from students and staff who contributed wr...
2020-11-2512 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 11: Student Profiles - Elizabeth Samer, Molly Himes, and Victoria TotoThis year’s 9th Grade Experience has been like no other and this week’s episode, recorded during EHS’s Covid-19 one-week closure in November 2020, was yet another memory to add to the digital scrapbook.
On this episode Elizabeth Samer, Molly Himes, and Victoria Toto chat about being involved with in-person school activities during the beginning of the year, strategies for hybrid/distance learning and things they learned about how they work best, and their hopes for a return to normalcy at some point in order to participate in desire events later in the school year.
To wa...
2020-11-1226 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 10: Freshmen Class OfficersWhile much of the start of the 2020-2021 school year has been anything but normal, there are still time-honored school traditions that have occurred during the first 9 weeks of school, including the the election of class officers. On this episode, you will hear from three out of the four newly elected leaders, including President Bella Desiderio, Secretary Angela Tran, and Treasurer Sarah Greene as they discuss the start of their school year, the beginnings of hybrid learning, what led them to become involved with these positions, and tips going forward to balance a jam-packed academic and extracurricular schedule.
...
2020-10-2918 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 9: Welcome Back to Hybrid Learning with Our School PsychologistsWeek nine of the 2020-2021 school year will present the next in a line of challenges thrown in front our students since March 2020 - the return to our EHS school building for the beginning of hybrid learning. While some students will seamlessly transition back this setup, others may struggle with different worries and adjustments. On this episode, we talk to our school psychologists Mrs. Stephanie Cignarella and Dr. Trevor Pinho about those feelings and when to take action on them.
Topics covered include:
How Mrs. Cignarella’s 9th Grade Experience shaped how she views her work tod...
2020-10-2239 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 8: Club Spotlight - Economics and Investing Club and Buzz MagazineWithout our normal club fair at the beginning of the year to learn more about the 70+ organizations here at Emmaus High School, the 9th Grade Experience has been reaching out advisors to bring you more information on some of these different groups to see if one is the right fit for you.
On this episode, we hear from Alexzander Toto and Sam Comfort discussing the Economics and Investment Club; and Briahna Milander, Natalie Ruschman, Chanelle Peña, Michaella Moyer and Avery Edelman to talk about Buzz Magazine.
To get more information about clubs and activities, li...
2020-10-1627 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 7: EPSD Technology Integration Specialists, Part 2 (Tech Tips)This is Part 2 of the discussion with our EPSD Technology Integration Specialists Heather Moser, Dylan Peters and Brian Scholl. If you are looking for some of the best tips and strategies for Zoom, Schoology, and a reminder on what to do when your computer is not working, this is the episode you have been looking for.
For more information about all things technology, please go to https://sites.google.com/eastpennsd.org/epsdfamilytech/home
If you missed it, go back and listen to Part 1, which was released last week. The group discussed the best ways t...
2020-09-2917 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 6: EPSD Technology Integration Specialists, Part 1On this week's episode we hear from our EPSD Technology Integration Specialists Heather Moser, Dylan Peters and Brian Scholl on the best ways to tackle technology during this remote time. Surprisingly, most of this conversation does not deal with hardware and connectivity issues, but how to communicate with teachers, collaborate with other students, and problem solve through challenges.
For more information about all things technology, please go to https://sites.google.com/eastpennsd.org/epsdfamilytech/home
Please tune in next Tuesday, September 29, for Part 2, where we continue our discussion to include some of the best t...
2020-09-2530 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 5: Club Spotlight - Gay-Straight Alliance, Kid to Kid, Latin Club and Foreign Cultures ClubWithout our normal club fair at the beginning of the year to learn more about the 70+ organizations here at Emmaus High School, the 9th Grade Experience has been reaching out advisors to bring you more information on some of these different groups to see if one is the right fit for you.
On this episode, we hear from Mrs. Grim and Dr. Pinho discussing the Gay Straight Alliance (GSA); Ms. Martini explaining Kid to Kid, and Mrs. Shimmel doubling down with Latin Club and Foreign Cultures Club.
To get more information about clubs and activities...
2020-09-2043 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 4: Clubs and Activities with Assistant Athletic Director Matt SpenglerOne of the themes that has come up time and time again as we have detailed successful 9th graders on this show has been their involvement in extracurricular activities. But, during a time when school is remote or hybrid, how will students be involved in clubs, activities, and organizations?
On this episode Assistant Athletic Director Matt Spengler gives the latest information on getting involved virtually and hopefully face-to-face, when it is safe for students, He breaks down the challenges and the current solutions for beginning activities like marching band, athletics, and finally clubs. He also directs students w...
2020-09-0322 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 3: Back to School with 9th Grade Assistant Principal Jordan FortierWith the start of a new school year just days away and feelings of unease about the unknown about the jump from middle school to high school in most student's and parent's minds, today's episode hopes to give some information to alleviate those fears.
Today's guest, 9th Grade Assistant Principal Jordan Fortier, gives the most up-to-date information about the first two weeks of school. We talk about Week 1, when students will have the opportunity to come to the building and meet their teachers and participate in classes, both in person and online, and what is in store f...
2020-08-2732 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 2: EHS Graduate Spotlight Maryland State Senator Clarence Lam '99We often tell high schoolers that to be successful, they should eventually pick one area and focus their attention heavily. For Clarence Lam, a 1999 Emmaus High School graduate. it was a desire to pursue multiple passions that has led him on a unique career path.
After finishing at EHS, he went on to study both political science and biology. He has gone on to become a physician in preventive medicine at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a Maryland State Senator for District 12 in Baltimore and Howard Counties, since his election in November 2018.
...
2020-07-3119 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 3, Episode 1: EHS Graduate Spotlight "Imperfection is Beautiful" with Lisa MacDonald '14Lisa MacDonald ‘14 is living her dream. When she entered Emmaus High School as a freshman during the 2010-2011 school year, she was unsure about where she was going, but knew she would need to overcome challenges, including her learning disability, to get there . A freshman year art class, opened the door that Lisa has burst through to blossom into an abstract motivational artist and speaker through her brand “Imperfection is Beautiful.” She is currently a student at Cedar Crest College majoring in Art Therapy and minoring in Psychology and Spanish and sells originals, prints, and coloring books through her online...
2020-07-2335 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 33: Reflections on Freshmen Year 2019-2020, Part 2The first year at Emmaus High School for the Class of 2023 will be one that they surely will never forget. This week in Part 2 of the year-end reflections, we hear the words of over 20 freshmen who offered thoughts on their year, tips for upcoming 9th graders, and what they learned about themselves through this challenging time.
Once again joining the podcast to read student's reflections are my children, Cole, 11; Grace, 9; and Joy, 6; and my wife, Jen.
2020-06-1820 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 32: Reflections on Freshmen Year 2019-2020, Part 1The first year at Emmaus High School for the Class of 2023 will be one that they surely will never forget. Over the next two weeks, we hear the words of over 40 freshmen who offered reflections on their year, tips for upcoming 9th graders, and what they learned about themselves through this challenging time.
Once again joining the podcast to read student's reflections are my children, Cole, 11; Grace, 9; and Joy, 6; and a new special guest, my wife, Jen, who talks about her own 9th grade experience.
2020-06-1221 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 31: Inside the Hornet's Nest: At Home with The Conner FamilyWhether it has been on the football field on Friday nights, at community events, or posing under a billboard congratulating the Class of 2020, the Hornet mascot has become an unmistakeable symbol of Emmaus High School over the last three years. But, despite being so visible, how much do you know about the student in the costume and his family?
On this episode, we hear from the Hornet himself, graduating senior Zachary Conner, his mom Jennifer, and his soon-to-be 9th grade brother Andrew about what it has been like to watch the Hornet mascot grow and evolve.
2020-06-0434 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 30: Coronavirus Week 11 - 9th Grade Assistant Principal Jordan FortierThere is no way that 9th Grade Assistant Principal Jordan Fortier could have envisioned his first year as the freshmen-level principal finishing the way that it has. But it has created a moment that our students will not soon forget and will impact their remaining years here at Emmaus High School.
During this conversation, Fortier discusses how his 9th grade year, which included some personal challenges, helped to guide him into a career in education and gave him a perspective about how important the social/emotional learning perspective is in his job. He also shares what he w...
2020-05-3029 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 29: Coronavirus Week 10 - Welcome Class of 2023As we head into the Memorial Day Weekend, the podcast is trying a new format - a shorter episode without a guest.
I wanted to share a personal reflection that I had after visiting school for the first time since late March. Every member of the Emmaus High School community has been experiencing this shutdown in their own way during the last two months. We have been saying even though the building is closed, our school is still open.
But when I stepped foot inside of a practically empty EHS building, the feeling of closure re...
2020-05-2306 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 28: 1st Anniversary Special Episode with EPSD Superintendent Kristen CampbellThis week, we will take a slight break from the weekly Coronavirus updates to reflect back and look forward as we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the release of the podcast. It is a time of great thanks and recognition for the many students and staff that have participated in telling the stories of our 9th graders here at Emmaus High School. Even in these uncertain and crazy times, we can come back to the idea that we have amazing people doing amazing things at our school!
To celebrate and get perspective from the district level, there...
2020-05-1742 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 27: Coronavirus Update Week 8 - Teacher and Nurse Appreciation WeekAs we encounter the eighth week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with students Joshua Jones and Reid Scharer, as well as over 20 additional students who contributed written tokens of gratitude, to celebrate Teacher and Nurse Appreciation Week.
This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session. In it, we hear Scharer and Jones give recollections of their favorite teachers and break down some of the qualities that make up an outstanding educator. Sprinkled into the discussion are small accounts written by students that could not be present...
2020-05-0830 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 26: Coronavirus Update Week 7 - A Read into the LibraryAs we encounter the seventh week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with school librarian Kelly Bower and student Joshua Jones to see how they are continuing to adapt to our new normal.
This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session. In it, we hear Ms. Bower tell own her unique 9th grade memories, discuss her move from the classroom to the library, detail how she is currently helping students, and offer some good book recommendations.
She also highlights the upcoming online book fair to be...
2020-05-0138 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 25: Coronavirus Update Week 6 - School Counselor UpdateAs we encounter the sixth week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with our 9th grade school counselors at Emmaus High School to see how they have adjusted to their new reality.
This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session that featured EHS School Counselors Colleen Demchak and Mike McInerney. We discuss what school counselors are doing without physically being in front of students, scheduling for next school year, the grading setup for the final marking period, and how to deal with the many issues facing students...
2020-04-2132 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 24: Coronavirus Update Week 5As we approach the end of our fifth week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with 9th graders and a few guests at Emmaus High School to see how they have adjusted to their new reality.
This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session that featured EHS School Nurse Beth Ann Hendershot, 11th Grade Assistant Principal Greg Annoni, along with students Joshua Jones and David Svoboda talking about a variety of wellness issues . Some of the topics discussed included the importance of establishing healthy routines, taking brain b...
2020-04-1730 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 23: Coronavirus Update Week 4As we approach the end of our fourth week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with 9th graders at Emmaus High School to see how they have adjusted to their new reality. This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session that featured Reid Scharer, Joshua Jones, and Avery Smith talking about the first week of new learning in the EPSD Continuity of Learning Plan. The students came together to share their challenges during the first week, what the requirements looked like in classes like Wellness/Fitness and Band, and...
2020-04-1025 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 22: Coronavirus Update Week 3As we approach the end of our third week of the Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with 9th graders at Emmaus High School to see how they are feeling about our new reality. This week's episode uses the audio from a Google Meet session that had more than 15 students participate. It was offered as an opportunity for students to become familiar with the format and feel of a Meet session before the rollout of Phase 2 of the Continuity of Learning Plan on Monday, April 6. The students came together to express how much they...
2020-04-0340 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 21: Coronavirus Update Week 2As we approach the end of our second week of our Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with 9th graders to see how they are feeling about our new reality. Some of the topics we asked about this week included understanding social distancing, how much they have been outside since the closure, how they are staying in contact with friends and family, how the shutdown of local business has impacted their lives, and if they live with or know anyone in the medical field.
Special thanks to my "co-hosts" my 11-year-old son...
2020-03-2733 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 20: Career Readiness with Brian KoppelmanYou never know what the answer to a question will be until you ask it. When Brian Koppelman, co-creator of the Showtime show Billions and co-writer of movies Rounders and Ocean’s Thirteen, put out a tweet and said he would appear on podcasts during the Coronavirus shutdown, I sent him an email. I never expected to hear back, but within 3 minutes of sending the message, he replied and said he would be “100 percent in.” Koppelman was gracious with his time and excited to share stories of his high school days and beyond. Some of the topics we discussed includ...
2020-03-2532 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 19: Coronavirus Update Week 1As we approach the end of our first week of our Coronavirus shutdown in the East Penn School District, we check in with 9th graders to see how they are adjusting the new reality we are all living in. Via Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/9thgradeexperience and Google Classroom, we asked students to tell us about what they have been up to, the establishment of new routines, and how they are feeling about the whole situation. While some answers were not shocking (sleeping, eating, and playing video games), a few were unexpected, as they wrote about how much...
2020-03-1923 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 18: Hello, Freshman! Inside the Emmaus Theater Department, Volume 4It's now less than one week to the opening curtain for the freshman and all those involved in the production of the theater department's spring musical Hello, Dolly!
In Volume 4 of this behind-the-scenes look at the preparation before the show's Wednesday, March 18 debut, we check back in with Mason Steltz, Dom Zientara, and Jacob Klinedinst to get the scoop behind what it’s been like since we last heard them taking the to the stage for rehearsals for the first time in the middle of February.
In this conversation, the boys discussed the lengthy process of g...
2020-03-1326 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 17: March Career Readiness Month with Mrs. Grim, Mrs. Demchak & Mr. McInerneyWhile March is usually a time reserved for college basketball madness, this year at Emmaus High School, the third month of the year will be devoted to an even crazier topic: What to do with your future?
It may seem like just yesterday (or now 7 months ago!) that this year’s 9th grade class entered the halls of EHS. Yet, in our rapidly changing and evolving world, it is never too early to think about skills and strategies that may help prepare you to be successful in your post-school outcomes.
Led and and coordinated by EHS...
2020-02-2725 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 16: Student Profiles - Chase Muckey, Dylan Darville, and Daniel Charlot (Freshman Boys Basketball)In the world of high school athletics, and even on previous episodes of this podcast, most of the attention is placed on the results of the varsity teams. But before the Friday Night Lights, local television, newspaper and radio coverage, and league and district championships, many athletes improve their skills on junior varsity or freshman teams. In perennially strong programs, like boys basketball, making any of the three teams is quite the accomplishment for a 9th grader.
If the success of this season’s Freshman Boys Basketball team is any indication of future fortunes, the Hornets hoops pro...
2020-02-2024 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 15: Hello, Freshman! Inside the Emmaus Theater Department, Volume 3It's getting closer to the opening curtain for the freshman involved in the production of the theater department's spring musical Hello, Dolly! In Volume 3 of this behind-the-scenes look at the preparation before the show's Wednesday, March 18 debut, we check back in with Mason Steltz, Dom Zientara, and Jacob Klinedinst to see what has happened to them since their auditions at the end of December. In this conversation that took place right before taking the stage for an afternoon dance routine practice on the stage for the first time, the boys discussed the anticipation of waiting to hear if they...
2020-02-1414 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 14: Jasper Learning Initiative with Mike MihalikThe beginning of the 2020-2021 school year will provide students with a unique school experience unlike anything currently offered at Emmaus High School. The Jasper Learning Initiative will debut with up to 125 upcoming 9th grade students who are looking to learn in a setting that values collaboration, curiosity, and authenticity that promises to be community-inspired, project-based, and inquiry-driven.
With its name taken from a hard but workable mineral found in our area, Jasper is looking to create exciting and memorable learning experiences that benefit both students and the local community.
In this episode, Mike Mihalik, Su...
2020-02-1035 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 13: Hello, Freshman! Inside the Emmaus Theater Department, Volume 2One of the goals of the 9th Grade Experience is to tell the stories of the widest-range of students possible who are involved throughout Emmaus High School. In order to dive a little deeper and really get some behind-the-scenes information, at least one time per month, the podcast will attempt to follow a group of students who are attempting to excel outside the classroom. For the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, that focus will be on the Emmaus Theater Department and its production of the musical Hello, Dolly! We will be talking with freshman cast members, crew members...
2020-01-0223 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 12: Hello, Freshman! Inside the Emmaus Theater Department, Volume 1One of the goals of the 9th Grade Experience is to tell the stories of the widest-range of students possible who are involved throughout Emmaus High School. In order to dive a little deeper and really get some behind-the-scenes information, at least one time per month, the podcast will attempt to follow a group of students who are attempting to excel outside the classroom. For the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, that focus will be on the Emmaus Theater Department and its production of the musical Hello, Dolly! We will be talking with freshman cast members, crew members...
2019-12-2037 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 11: Student Profile - Keziah BrantleyAs a player and a teammate, starting varsity girls basketball player Keziah Brantley is always looking to conquer the next challenge ahead of her.
As an 8th grader at Lower Macungie Middle School, she played for the high school freshman team, coached by Emmaus social studies teacher Mr. Carolla. This year, she reached her goal of making the varsity team as a 9th grader. She scored a team-high 17 points in her second varsity game, a 51 to 46 victory on the road over Northwestern on Saturday, December 7.
But it is her team-first, humble attitude that really stands ou...
2019-12-1017 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 10: A Thanksgiving Attitude of GratitudeAs we approach the holiday season and the end of 2019, it is a great time to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for here at Emmaus High School. There are many people, either in a classroom, on the field or court, or in the school’s many offices that work together to make the transition from middle school to high school as smooth and successful as possible for all students. On this very special episode, we hear from 40 people within EHS as they tell us who or what they are thankful for from the first three mo...
2019-11-2618 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 9: Student Profiles - Maddie Carlson and Abby BurnettWhen Maddie Carlson was asked to be a guest on today’s show, she had one favor to ask - she wanted her friend Abby Burnett to record as well. Luckily for the listeners, her request is everyone’s benefit because on this episode you will get to hear from two high-performing students making great strides in their ninth grade years.
The girls are both members of the Key Club as they look to help out in their community and build friendships with other classmates. In addition to taking rigorous class loads, Maddie is a member of Stude...
2019-11-2127 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 8: Student Profiles - Sophia Iacobelli and Nicole NosalFor Sophia Iacobelli and Nicole Nosal, keeping busy has been key to a successful transition this year at Emmaus High School. These freshmen are taking demanding course loads, which include at least two honors classes each, a Project Lead the Way Engineering class, and a shared Spanish 2 class at the end of their days.
Outside of the classroom, Sophia is involved in orchestra, student government, and will soon begin tryouts for the swim team; while Nicole recently finished her cross country season and is now training with the Fitness Team. In this episode they talk about the i...
2019-11-1422 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 7: Student Profile - Jake FottaSenior night in the next to the last game of the football regular season is not usually a time to make a change to a new quarterback, especially not to a freshman who hasn’t seen the varsity field all season. But for Jake Fotta, who was facing a 13 to 0 deficit, the second quarter of the Hornets’ game on Friday, October 18, against Bethlehem Catholic was the time. Unfazed, he stepped in and threw a touchdown pass before halftime to narrow the score and then went on to lead the team to 20 more unanswered points in the second half as Emma...
2019-10-2215 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 6: Student Profiles - Chris Alfau and Donavan McCargoHigh school is a time for new beginnings, making changes, and preparing yourself to move towards adulthood, especially if your middle school years did not go exactly as planned. For two best friends, Chris Alfau and Donavan McCargo, coming to Emmaus High School meant making an agreement that they would push each other academically and socially in order to make the most of their high school years and leave behind some of their previous behaviors and mindsets.
Since meeting on Donavan’s first day of seventh grade, the two middle school transfer students, have become accountability partners for...
2019-10-0322 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 5: Dr. Mykee Fowlin and No Place for HateOn the first Monday of every month, the faculty and staff at Emmaus High School trade their normal clothing for the opportunity to wear gear in a visual and symbolic support of No Place for Hate, an organization that allows students to facilitate diversity awareness and devise anti-bullying projects that affect the entire student body.
As part of their on-going mission to bring unique speakers and topics to student’s attention, the club welcomed Dr. Mykee Fowlin to EHS on Wednesday, September 25, to perform his one-man show “I Am Not the Enemy.” Dr. Mykee mixes psychology, performance, and po...
2019-09-2641 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 4: The Counseling SuiteIn the ever-evolving world of education, the traditional role of the guidance counselor has seen a dramatic shift. Gone are the days when the only time you would see your counselor would be when making decisions about your post-high school path, whether it would be college or career. Now, counselors play an important role in not only helping to shape a student’s academic outlook, but assist them in dealing with issues related to their social and emotional well-being.
In this episode, 9th grade counselors Mike McInerney and Colleen Demchak share the challenges that students are facing bot...
2019-09-1928 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 3: Freshman Walk ThroughAs a freshman, one of the biggest challenges at Emmaus High School is finding the best way to get around. Now that you have seen your schedule on PowerSchool, you may be wondering how you will make it from room 227 to 580 and then back to the auditorium for a study hall? Hopefully, you had a chance to come into the building on one of the days available to take a walk through with a map and a Hornet Ambassador to learn the best way to avoid the crowds and not be late to class. If you didn't, no worries...
2019-08-2318 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 2: Principal Dr. Kate KieresEntering her third year as principal at Emmaus High School, Dr. Kate Kieres brings a unique perspective to leadership and an understanding of what makes a 9th grade student successful. She began her career as a high school English teacher before moving into administration as an Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs at EHS from 2006-2011. She then went to Palisades School District to serve as a Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and later an Assistant Superintendent before coming back to this district. But not only does Dr. Kieres possess a bounty of educational knowledge through research and administration, s...
2019-08-1433 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 2, Episode 1: Teacher RoundtableAs a freshman at Emmaus High School, you are at the beginning of a four-year odyssey that will see you progress in many different ways. As you explore the clubs, activities, athletics, and all of the awesome things EHS has to offer, a critical question exists: What does it take to be successful in the classroom? In this episode, you will hear from several teachers who have worked with 9th graders for many years that want to help you make that transition to EHS as smooth as possible. This two-part episode features a round-table discussion with Kristin Susens, Jake...
2019-08-0934 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 1, Episode 5: From Inside the Assistant Principal's Office with Lisa Lucchesi-WoodIf you really want to know the inner workings of a school, there are two groups of people to chat with: the custodians and the office staff.
As she finishes up her second year as the administrative assistant to 9th Grade Assistant Principal Mr. Miller, Lisa Lucchesi-Wood is that go-to person if you want to get the scoop on the freshman class.
She has served in several roles during her time at EHS, including staff assistant, in-school suspension staff, and administrative assistant to former EHS assistant principal Mr. Breiner. These experiences, along with being a mo...
2019-05-2818 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 1, Episode 4: LCTIEveryone knows how difficult the transition to high school can be … but what if you were doing it two times a day in two different locations?
For our 9th grade students who are attending Lehigh Career and Technical Institute, they have lived that reality this year by needing to adjust to multiple buses rides, two sets of building expectations, various schedules, and 3:15 returns back to Emmaus High School.
They have done all this while balancing their core academic classes and the potential to learn about careers that could shape their future. In this episode, you will...
2019-05-2126 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 1, Episode 3: Flex Block WednesdayEvery Wednesday of the school year presents a unique scheduling opportunity for all students at Emmaus High School - Flex Block. This 37-minute period allows students the chance to complete work, check in with teachers for extra help and make-up assignments, or acquire information about school-wide events through announcements or assemblies. On this episode of the 9th Grade Experience, we chat with four 9th grade students -- Joshua Castro, Katie Christman-Conrad, Liza Centeno, and Emily Buss -- during a Flex Block to get some tips about using that time wisely, clearing up misconceptions about what they thought high school...
2019-05-1719 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 1, Episode 2: Life of the Varsity Athlete - On and Off the CourtWhether it is under the Friday night lights, beneath waves at the swimming pool, or the beautiful sunshine out on the tennis court, the games you witness involving our varsity athletes here at Emmaus High School only tell part of the student-athlete story. What you don’t see are the hours practicing and perfecting their sports, the homework thats gets started at 9 PM after the long bus ride from the Poconos, or the sacrifices of not hanging out with friends or going to that late night movie. On this episode of the 9th Grade Experience, we are going to ex...
2019-05-1723 minThe 9th Grade ExperienceSeason 1, Episode 1: Academics, Involvement and Finding BalanceBetween clubs, activities, sports, and socializing, sometimes it is hard to remember that the real focus of high school needs to be on the academics and the work students do in the classroom. In chatting with our guests today, you will see how two high achieving 9th grade students balance their time in order to excel in some challenging classes. Both Megan Petrizzi and Ben Thomas have found that school-life balance and are anxious to share their stories with you. They discussed topics such as the hardest adjustments from middle school, managing the workload, getting involved in the school...
2019-05-1730 min