Shows
Petey PodcastSpring Crafting at It's Best!Send us a textThe Elyria Special Olympics Spring Craft and Vendor Fair is back--April 12, 10AM to 3PM at Elyria High School! This EGG-citing event benefits the Elyria Special Olympics and offers a day of fun for the whole family. Join us as we chat with the amazing organizers behind this community event--Teachers, Sam Boneta and Sharri Goodsite.This year you'll find over 60 unique vendors at the fair, showcasing their crafts, artisanal goods and handmade treasures.But that’s not all! Tune in to this episode of Petey Podcast as we dive into th...2025-03-3113 min
Petey PodcastSafety Town Talk with Nicole Edwards!Send us a textThe talk of summer for the five-year old "littles" of Elyria is Safety Town--a program where kindergarteners discover essential rules for walking, biking, and everyday safety. And no one knows the ins and outs of Safety Town better than Nicole Edwards, the Recreation Supervisor for the city of Elyria and a wonderful friend of Elyria Schools! With Safety Town registration fast approaching, be sure to catch this friendly chat with Nicole!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2025-03-1834 min
Petey PodcastOn the Mat with Head Coach Paul Felton: Elyria Girls Varsity WrestlingSend us a textElyria Wrestling is recognized as a dominant force in the Southwestern Conference and beyond, and its reputation has only grown stronger with the introduction of a Girls Varsity team. Leading this drive is Coach Paul Felton, who is well-established with the Elyria Wrestling program. An Elyria High graduate, Felton wrestled under the legendary Erik Burnett, a former head coach known for his remarkable achievements. After joining Burnett as a coach, Felton has contributed to the program for many seasons. He's witnessed the rise of Girls Wrestling, noting it's one of the fastest-growing sports...2024-11-1543 min
Petey PodcastFree Meals for All StudentsSend us a textElyria Schools Foodservice Director, Lauryn Smith, and new Executive Chef, Alex Hrvatin, both of Aramark, join us on Petey Podcast to talk school food and nutrition. Aramark recently announced that all students in Elyria City School District are now eligible for free school meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Since making the announcement, participation in the school meal program has seen a big bump, and Lauryn and Alex couldn't be happier. Take a listen to how this program is working, and catch up...2024-10-2840 min
Petey PodcastMarty & Amy: Live at the Apple Festival!Send us a textWe took our show on the road in September to the 44th Elyria Apple Festival held in Downtown Elyria, Sept. 20-22. There, we caught up with Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band Director, Aaron Putka, Superintendent Ann Schloss, Associate Principal Courtney Griffiths and Apple Festival Coordinator Stacey Francis. What a great time at Elyria's hometown festival. Take a listen!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2024-10-011h 15
Petey Podcast44 Years of Apple Festival in Elyria!Send us a textHow we love the sweet, sweet season of fall and all the school fun that comes with it! Here in Elyria, the fall season kicks off each year with the Elyria Apple Festival in September. Like any small-town festival, Elyria's Apple Festival is chock-full of hometown favorites, from food booths and crafts to concerts and specialty programs, including the Apple Festival Princess Pageant, Apple Costume Contest, Apple Art Contest, Apple Bake-off, and the Apple Pie Eating Contest! Elyria City School District is a staple at the Elyria Apple Festival. Each year on Petey...2024-09-1330 min
Petey PodcastLet's Get Physical: Sports Performance with Elyria's AthletesSend us a textPlease join us in welcoming to Petey Podcast, Jay Banyasz, Director of Sports Performance for Elyria Schools. Banyasz, who's no stranger to Elyria Athletics, kicked off a high-intensity performance program for Elyria's athletes this year. The program takes a full mind-body approach to training, from the classroom, to the gym, to the field, Banyasz hones in on all aspects of fitness. Take a listen!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2024-08-2227 min
Petey PodcastThe Scoop on Elyria Sports with ADs Beck and SiwierkaSend us a textPetey Podcast guests Heather Beck and Mat Siwierka bring us up to speed on all things Elyria Sports. Beck is the Athletic Director of Elyria High School and Siwierka directs all middle school sports in the district. We always love when these two join us in studio with all the latest in Elyria Athletics. Take a listen!Watch highlights from Elyria Pioneer Community Day at Ely Stadium on PioneerTV YouTube!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, I...2024-08-2239 min
Petey PodcastElyria's French ConnectionSend us a textFrom the moment French International Exchange Student, Mathias Jezequel, stepped off the plane and met his host family in Elyria, Ohio, he was swept up in a most wonderful whirlwind of activity--from entering high school, to performing with theater companies, to visiting some of America's most iconic destinations. American host and Elyria Schools Gifted Teacher, Charlene Hartley, and her family, ensured that Mathias had a lifetime of experiences in one year. In this podcast, recorded just before Mathias' return to France, he talked about these treasured moments and memories in Elyria and in t...2024-06-251h 08
Petey PodcastPioneer Theater: A legacy of learning and the artsSend us a textPioneer Theater (PT) is a gem in the community of Elyria and Lorain County. The long-running children's theater program was established in 1976. This educational summer program teaches children all the way through the age of 18 all aspects of theater from set design to stage acting. After just three-weeks of learning and growing in this summer theater club, the students will perform a live show on stage. It's a fascinating and truly remarkable accomplishment. This year's troupe will perform an old-timey classic: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, July 12 and 13 at the Elyria Performing Arts Center...2024-05-1351 min
Petey PodcastCoach Larrick in the House!Send us a textWhat a run! Sitting in studio with Coach Brett Larrick and reliving a sensational season for the Elyria High School Boys Basketball team. Take a listen as Coach Larrick describes a whole lotta magic from nail-biter moments to conference titles to division playoffs -- right here on Petey Podcast! Congratulations Elyria Boys Basketball on a phenomenal season!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2024-04-1635 min
Petey PodcastUp, up and away!Send us a textThe eclipse of April 8 was truly remarkable. And here's a little something that added an extra layer of fascination for those of us in the path of totality in Elyria, Ohio--an eclipse weather balloon crash-landed in a field on the property of our very own Eastern Heights Campus! The balloon and its transmission device, known as a radiosonde, were discovered by a school family who was watching the eclipse from the school's field. The balloon was launched by a group of researchers from the University of Wyoming known as the UW Space Cowboys...2024-04-1547 min
Petey PodcastSpring Craft Fair is Hopping Good Time!Send us a textIt's a hop-hop-hopping time of year in the Elyria Schools as we gear up for the many activities and programs of spring. One of our favorite functions each year is the Special Olympics Craft and Vendor Fair at Elyria High School! It's an event truly designed for fun, family and friendship. Nearly 100 vendors will be there to showcase their crafts, homemade goodies and products. If you're looking for unique stuffers for Easter baskets--this is the place! You'll want to bring the kids, too, for the fair's annual Easter Egg Hunt, with more than 6,000...2024-02-2823 min
Petey PodcastInternet Dangers--Know Where Your Child Goes OnlineSend us a textThe Ohio Task Force on Internet Crimes Against Children came to Elyria High School to talk with parents about this critical matter. EHS Associate Principal Patrick Griffis joined us on Petey Podcast to hit the high points from this incredibly important presentation. Internet crimes against children are on the rise but there are ways to fight back. Tune in to this important discussion on Petey Podcast, and watch the video on Elyria Schools PioneerTV.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter...2024-02-0133 min
Petey PodcastBoard Reflections with Greg ElekSend us a textAfter nearly nine years as a member of the Elyria Board of Education, President Greg Elek is stepping down at the end of this year after deciding not to seek re-election last November. Greg has been a key leader in decisions that have changed the face of the school district and of the community--most notably the building of all new schools and a new stadium in Elyria. We caught up with Greg on Petey Podcast to chat about his time on the Board and some of his most memorable moments. Thank y...2023-11-2856 min
Petey PodcastAM 930 WEOL Morning Show shines the spotlight on school staffer & Honor Flight GuardianSend us a textMorning talk radio host Bruce VanDyke of AM 930 WEOL talks with Elyria Schools staffer Terry Lewis about his unforgettable trip as an Honor Flight Guardian. Terry is a Head Custodian at Northwood Campus, where he works with Teacher Mary Karlovec--both are very involved in the school's annual tribute to veterans on Veterans Day. Take a listen as Terry describes his incredible journey and Mary shares how Elyria Schools came to be involved in sponsorship of the Honor Flight program. Mary also gives us the scoop on what Northwood has planned for this year's Ve...2023-10-2012 min
Petey PodcastAn alumni's quest to keep children warmSend us a textShirley Messaros grew up in Elyria during World War II, attending McKinley and Franklin Elementary Schools as a youngster and graduating from Elyria High School in 1954. She forged many friendships that have stood the test of time. She's been the keeper of her high school class memoirs, and continues to gather her classmates up every five years for meet ups. In 2024, the Class of 1954 will celebrate its 70th reunion! It's these fond school memories and deep friendships that's kept Shirley tied to Elyria Schools all these years. About 13 years ago Shirley started a...2023-10-1623 min
Petey PodcastLiteracy and The Right to ReadSend us a textElyria City School District is the first in Lorain County to screen the film, The Right to Read, and it's FREE to our parents and community at the Elyria High School Performing Arts Center, Tues. Oct. 10, at 6:30 p.m. Joining us on this episode of Petey Podcast are Literacy Specialists Erica Kaufmann and Jennifer Martinez from the Educational Service Center of Lorain County, and Elyria Schools Implementation Specialist Bianca Fries. The movie, The R...2023-10-0634 min
Petey PodcastIt's Apple Festival Time!Send us a textIt's September and that can only mean one thing in Elyria: Apple Fest time! Take a listen as we chat with Apple Festival Committee Chair, Stacey Francis, as she fills us in on all the fun food and activities we can expect at Elyria's annual Apple Festival in Ely Square, Sept. 15-17--the festival is celebrating 43 years this year!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2023-09-0635 min
Petey PodcastKicking off with Coach Brian FoxSend us a textIf there's one thing that brings people together on a Friday night it's high school football. And this year Elyria has a new coach at the helm, Brian Fox. Brian joined us in the Petey Podcast studio before the start of the school year to talk about the season and his coaching philosophies. He also talks about academics and how coaches and teachers of Elyria High School work together for the common goal of student success. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on F...2023-08-1637 min
Petey PodcastEnglish Abroad: A Teacher in PolandSend us a textAn English language expert of Elyria Schools, Celina Bigio, took her teaching strategies and skills across the Atlantic this summer to teach English to students in Poland. This is her second trip to Europe in a year--over spring break she was in Poland to guide teachers there in ways of incorporating fun and games into their lessons and classroom activities. Celina is the district's EL (English Learner) and Gifted Coordinator. The work she's doing in Poland will help her immensely in assisting Elyria's teachers who work directly with students learning to speak English t...2023-06-1454 min
Petey PodcastSummertime, Soccertime!Send us a textChecking in with a couple of our soccer gurus--Alyssa Martineau and Todd Church--on this episode of Petey Podcast. Alyssa is the Head Coach of the Elyria Girls Soccer Program and Todd is her Assistant, and he's also her dad. The duo finished up their first year as new coaches of the girls soccer program this past school year and just as quickly, kicked off their summer workout schedule and will start up a summer soccer camp in July. And, by the way...there's still time to register for that camp! We had a...2023-05-1530 min
Petey PodcastThe Italian ConnectionSend us a textSofia Fioravanti hails from the quaint, picturesque town of Lake Como, Italy. As a youngster, it was her dream to travel and study abroad in America. At 18 years old, and without knowing one word of English, Sofia boarded a plane and took her first flight ever across the Atlantic to the United States. Her final destination would be Elyria, Ohio, where she would enroll as a senior at Elyria High School through a foreign exchange student program. Sofia said while at EHS this school year, she's had the full "American high school experience." A...2023-05-151h 21
Petey PodcastElyria High A Cappella Hits a High NoteSend us a textThe Elyria High School A Cappella Choir earned a Superior rating of 1--the highest rating--at district and state competitions this year. Choir Directors Kalee Bondzio and Erin Behrendt joined us on Petey Podcast with the ins and outs of how competitions work, and how students can get involved in Elyria High's award-winning Music Department. You can watch the Elyria High School A Cappella Choir in all its musical glory on Elyria Schools Pioneer TV on YouTube. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on F...2023-04-1038 min
Petey Podcast"They're Creepy and They're Kooky..."Send us a textUncle Fester, Morticia, Gomez and Pugsley Addams take the mics in this episode of Petey Podcast, coming to listeners today remotely from Elyria High School. When not in character, this accomplished group of student leaders can be found everywhere on the campus of Elyria High, and participating in any number of clubs and activities. In Drama Club, they are members of Elyria High's historic Thespian Troupe 946. Drama Teacher and Director Bobby Graves also took a seat at the Petey Podcast interview table. The troupe's production of "The Addams Family School Edition" takes place...2023-03-3045 min
Petey PodcastNorthwood Drama in the Limelight!Send us a textIt’s not every day you get the chance to share a table with a beautiful princess, a thoughtful beast, a chatty clock and a dashing villain. Guess it was just our lucky day on Petey Podcast as we met up with a few of the cast members of Beauty and the Beast Jr., by the Northwood Middle School Drama Club. Also joining us on the show: Jessica Sammarone, the club’s new musical director. Jessica shares directing responsibilities with J.R. Simons, manager of the Elyria Performing Arts Center. Both are l...2023-03-2736 min
Petey PodcastSpring Craft Fair Hops Back to TownSend us a textIf you enjoy the sights and sounds of a good vendor fair, you're going to love the Elyria Special Olympics Craft and Vendor Fair coming to Elyria High School on March 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our guests, Sharron Goodsite and Samantha Boneta, members of the Elyria Special Olympics fundraising committee, give us the skinny on this year's event. The Special Olympics Craft and Vendor fair has been going strong for seven years, growing bigger and better each year. This year's event is expected to showcase more than 70 vendors with everything from c...2023-03-0325 min
Petey PodcastOn the Mat with Coach Torres and Riley BanyasSend us a textElyria Wrestling is a veritable powerhouse in the high school sports arena. New Head Coach Armando Torres joined us on Petey Podcast to talk about taking over the program this year, and about the growth of Women's Wrestling. Joining us on the show is Elyria High School Senior and Wrestler, Riley Banyas. Riley has made her name in the wrestling community, earning many regional, state and national championship titles and just recently logging her 100th career win in the sport. Riley was named the 2023 Lorain County Smackdown Women's Wrestler of the Year, and...2023-03-0340 min
Petey PodcastSetting the Stage for Student SuccessSend us a textThe Eastern Heights Middle School (EHMS) Drama Club gives students in fifth through eighth grade real experience in theater behind the scenes and in front of audiences. But even more important are the bonds the students form as members of the tight-knit group, and the confidence and poise they exude on stage delivering complex dialogue, drawing audiences into each story. EHMS director, Charlene Hartley, has built the club up from just a few members to more than 20-strong, and it continues to grow each school year. The club kicked off its 2022-2023 season...2023-02-2340 min
Petey PodcastEHS Grad Enters the Esports ArenaSend us a textAn average day in the gaming entertainment world is anything but average. It might include a bit of script writing, some wrangling of VIPs in a green room, a lot of work behind the lens of a camera, a chunk of time editing content, and, of course, assembling a finished product. That sample then has to pass muster by a producer or sponsor before it ever makes it to any online platform. Our guest knows a lot about this process because it's what he does for a living! Greg Elek, a 2015 graduate of E...2023-02-1639 min
Petey PodcastAnd the Grammy Goes to...Send us a text...Ramaya Lee-Mosley and The TSU Aristocrat of Bands: Tennessee State University Marching Band! Ramaya is a 2022 graduate of Elyria High School, and former member of the Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band. Ramaya, now a freshman at TSU, marches with the TSU Marching Band, who just made history as the first collegiate marching band to win a Grammy! TSU Marching Band won in the Best Roots Gospel Album category for their album, "The Urban Hymnal." We caught up with Ramaya by phone in Tennessee to hear all about it. Take a...2023-02-0816 min
Petey PodcastPreschool: What a Wonderful World!Send us a textThe preschool and kindergarten programs in Elyria Schools are ramping up for registration. Elyria Early Childhood Village Principal Jackie Plantner joined us on Petey Podcast to share details of the district's upcoming registration fair for new students, and to delight us with stories about the day in the life of an Elyria preschooler. As the saying goes, kids say the darndest things. Did you know, for instance, that the buzz around the school is that Mrs. Plantner has a hot tub in her office? That's what the students have surmised is behind a c...2023-02-0840 min
Petey PodcastA Virtuoso of Holiday ConcertsSend us a textThe much anticipated and always sensational Holiday Spectacular Concert of Elyria High School returns to the Elyria Performing Arts Center on Dec. 16 and 17, 2022. This concert is unlike any other. Call it a collage, a kaleidoscope or a prism; it matters not because the result is the same: a phenomenal display of large group and small ensemble top-notch performances. Take a listen to what you can expect from this year's Holiday Spectacular with our guests Elyria High School Music Directors, Aaron Putka (Band), Greg Smith (Orchestra) and Kalee Bondzio (Choirs). Concert tickets are available...2022-12-1439 min
Petey PodcastChilly Air Calls for Chili Cook-off!Send us a textWestwood Middle School is bringing back a fan-favorite event: The Annual Chili Cook-off and Auction on Nov. 5! Westwood's Chili Cook-off started almost a decade ago, and it's grown in popularity and participation every year. The ultimate goal of the event is to raise enough money to defray costs associated with the school's annual student field trip to Washington D.C. The cook-off draws competitors from every school building and department in the district--all vying to be crowned the Westwood Chili Cook-off Champion. The event has even perked the interest of community partners, some...2022-10-0629 min
Petey PodcastScience Star! Physics Teacher Earns Presidential HonorSend us a textThis podcast was two years in the making. Before the education world was turned upside down by the pandemic, a science teacher in the Elyria Schools had just learned he was named for a very prestigious national award; an award that is recognized as an elite honor in math and science teaching. Elyria High School Physics Teacher, Jeremy Secaur, learned in 2019 that he had earned the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST.) Due to COVID, Jeremy wasn't able to fully celebrate his monumental achievement until earlier this year, on...2022-09-1956 min
Petey PodcastOn Location: Elyria Apple FestivalSend us a textPink Cookies, cotton candy, funnel cakes and just about every deep-fried delectable you can imagine in one place: The Elyria Apple Festival! The Petey Podcast crew was on location at the festival, talking up the sights and smells and highlighting the fun to come at Elyria’s signature end-of-summer event.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2022-09-161h 05
Petey PodcastCalling All Princesses!Send us a textYou don't have to be born into royalty to be a princess. . You can sign up for the Elyria Apple Festival Princess Pageant and earn your crown this month at the Elyria Apple Festival! The Elyria Apple Festival takes place Sept. 16-18, 2022. Festival Chair Stacey Francis and Princess Pageant Coordinator Jen Parker joined us in studio to tout the festival and encourage contestant sign-ups for the pageant. Parker is taking pageant registrations through Labor Day weekend at www.elyriaapplefestival.com. The Elyria Apple Festival will have more than 100 food vendors, crafts...2022-09-0142 min
Petey PodcastAre You Ready for Some Football?Send us a textElyria Athletic Directors, Heather Beck and Matt Siwierka, joined us in the Petey Podcast studio to talk sports and particularly, football! Tonight, August 19, Elyria Pioneers will play hometown rival, the Elyria Catholic Panthers at Dan Reaser Stadium at Elyria Catholic. The two teams are well-matched and it's a not-to-be-missed event in the proud city of Elyria. Siwierka is new to the Elyria Athletic Office as the Middle School Athletic Director. He grew up in Elyria and attended Elyria Schools, where he returned after college to teach at Elyria High School. He was n...2022-08-1928 min
Petey PodcastPolice Talk with Chief PelkoSend us a textFor nearly 30 years, Bill Pelko has served the city of Elyria as a police officer. Now he wears the badge of Chief. Pelko joined us in the Petey Podcast studio in June to talk about assuming the role as Chief last year, and to catch us up on what's new with the Elyria Police Department, including body cameras for police officers and a text tip line called TIP411. Pelko talks about the importance of building relationships in the community and how residents can be active in community safety. "W...2022-06-1639 min
Petey PodcastElyria Library: The community's living room!Send us a textThere aren't many communities that can boast three individual libraries in their town, let alone brand-spanking new ones! No doubt about it, Elyria's Public Library System is robust and here to talk about it on Petey Podcast is new Director, Jennifer Starkey, and Jennifer Harmon, Community Engagement Director. Take a listen to the exciting programs coming our way this summer through Elyria Public Library. Here's a hint: You'll have a WHALE of a good time! Details of Elyria's Oceans of Possibilities Summer Reading Program 2022.2022-05-0948 min
Petey PodcastElyria Scores "Goal and Assist" with Dynamo Coaching DuoSend us a textAlyssa and Todd Church know a little something about soccer. Actually...they know ALOTTA something about soccer! Both have vast experience in the game--on the field and on the sidelines. Growing up with the sport, Alyssa's earliest lessons were from her dad. Todd Church is a graduate of Elyria High School and played on Elyria High's first soccer team before becoming a coach himself in Elyria and for many years in Strongsville where his program earned multiple titles. Alyssa came up through the youth soccer programs in Elyria with her dad by her s...2022-05-0451 min
Petey Podcast¡Avanzando!Send us a textSara Sierra is one amazing student. Three years ago she moved from Colombia to the United States, settling in Ohio with her mom and two sisters. In that short amount of time Sara mastered the English Language AND earned The Seal of Biliteracy, an award granted to students who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in two languages. "What's special about Sara earning The Seal of Biliteracy is that she is a former ESL student," said Maria Gilmore, ESL Teacher, Elyria Schools. "She is the first one (student) so far (to do this), b...2022-04-2650 min
Petey PodcastBiltz on the Senior Season Blitz!Send us a textTina Biltz is a history teacher at Elyria High School. She's also the Student Council Advisor. There are very few events going on at Elyria High that Tina isn't part of. In fact, she's often on the organizing committee and many times that committee is made up of Student Council members. As Elyria High gears up for "the senior season"-- when so many of the special recognitions and events take place for the Senior Class--we caught up with Tina on Petey Podcast to talk about the role of Student Council in making...2022-04-2640 min
Petey PodcastTaking Stock: Characters and Conversations at HomeSend us a textDr. Meghan Barlow is a recognized child psychologist and fortunately for us, she has been spending a good amount of time in Elyria lately, heading up a series of sessions for parents. The topics have ranged from routines and structure in the home and social media and screen time to social pressures on children and resolving conflict. Her expertise and advice is invaluable, and her delivery is warm, conversational and relatable. We caught up with Dr. Barlow on Petey Podcast to learn more about the sessions she's heading up in Elyria Sc...2022-04-111h 05
Petey PodcastFun and Fundraising: Crafts, Eggs and the Easter Bunny!Send us a textIn April, Elyria Schools is hosting a sensational day of fun and fundraising through the Spring Craft and Vendor Fair at Elyria High School, 601 Middle Ave. The event is organized by the Elyria Special Olympics Committee but the proceeds benefit the entire Special Olympics program, including the annual Lorain County Special Olympics which is held at Ely Stadium in May. The craft and vendor fair will take place Saturday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the dining hall of Elyria High School. More than 50 vendors are participating in the show. Beyond...2022-03-2325 min
Petey PodcastMaking Connections with Superintendent SchlossSend us a textFrom new schools to new students, Elyria Schools Superintendent Ann Schloss gives us a big-picture look at some of the many projects taking place in the district. Here's a rundown of the topics we're covering in this episode of Petey Podcast! Wrapping up the new-school construction planReadying for new-student enrollment, enrollment fair March 12 at Ely, 9:30-NoonTeaching and learning initiativesCommunity partnershipsNew school calendarNew in the the SWC ConferenceWe're hiring!Student supports and safetyOur friend, Jack Berckemeyer!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Tw...2022-02-1550 min
Petey PodcastBedtime StoriesSend us a text"I knew there was a need, I didn't know how great the need was going to be."Roger Dorsey graduated from Elyria West High School in 1988. In seventh grade, Roger moved from West Virginia to Elyria with his mom and siblings to escape a domestic violence situation. They moved in with an aunt and cousins in an Elyria home that was roughly 1,000 square feet. "We had seven children and two adult women living in that house," Roger said. "Myself, my brother and two cousins were all about the same age; we shared o...2022-02-0852 min
Petey PodcastA Little Magic, and a Whole Lotta KindnessSend us a textThere’s wonder in the air at Eastern Heights Elementary School. A fourth grade classroom there welcomes a tiny visitor now and again from a land far away. Her name is Kindness Fairy, and she’s been visiting a certain teacher in Elyria Schools for a handful of years; Really, since that teacher installed a tiny little fairy door years ago in her former classroom at McKinley Elementary School. Kindness Fairy has stayed true to this teacher, and her students—new and old—visiting often and always with something kind to share. We enjoyed an...2021-12-2149 min
Petey PodcastHoliday Memories of ElyriaSend us a textBill and Janet Bird are well-known locally for their work in preserving the history of Elyria and Lorain County. They joined us recently on Petey Podcast to reminisce holiday traditions gone by. What a wonderful time we had sharing this collection of memories. We hope these moments inspire your own holiday remembrances. Happy holidays!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2021-12-071h 24
Petey PodcastIn Tune with Rachel BrownSend us a textThousands of students have passed through the halls of Eastern Heights school in the 20 years that Rachel Brown has taught music there. But only a handful of them know that their music teacher is a singer, songwriter and musician on the professional stage, as well. Rachel Brown comes from a long line of musicians, and it was her first passion. "My family is very, very musical," She said. "I didn't go to school to be a teacher until I was 25 because I was on the road being a rock musician. I started piano...2021-12-0447 min
Petey PodcastHome-baked Baklava with Maria FotinosSend us a textMaria Fotinos teaches business, finance and computer skills at Elyria High School. But none of these areas were the subject of a class she taught recently. And none of the students in the class were from high school. The topic of this class was baklava, and the students were staffers of Elyria Schools who wanted to learn how to make this decadent dessert by hand. Maria grew up in Montreal, Canada, and her parents owned a Greek bakery there. One of the delectable pastries that Maria grew up on was baklava and she...2021-11-1639 min
Petey PodcastA New Fire Chief in TownSend us a textThe Elyria Fire Department has a new Chief: Joe Pronesti. Pronesti has been with the Elyria Fire Department for 33 years but grew up in the city of Elyria and in the department. His dad was a fireman in the 1950s. "Growing up, all my heroes were Elyria Firefighters," said Pronesti. "They are all passed now but I keep pictures of them, and think of them, and I also think of the bosses I had when I first came on the job that mentored me. It's the only job I've ever wanted, and it's th...2021-11-0934 min
Petey PodcastA Doggone Perfect Teachable MomentSend us a textOn Petey Podcast...What are the chances that a lost dog would find its way into a school at the very moment a third grade class in that same school was reading about a lost dog at a grocery store? Well, that's exactly what happened at Eastern Heights Campus when a dog named Hershel wandered into the middle school one day for refuge. On the other side of the school, Mrs. Cindy Czerski's third grade class was reading the beloved tale, "Because of Winn-Dixie." When Mrs. Czerski learned of Hershel and how he c...2021-10-2527 min
Petey PodcastHe's the Voice of the Pioneer Marching BandSend us a textYou know him already as the play-by-play guy for the Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band but maybe you didn't know his name. He's Bob Putka, and he holds the coveted spot as the voice of the band. "One thing I've found in Elyria is people really like their band, and they get very excited. You can hear it in the stands. So, it feels good to be able to do that for people who appreciate the kids performing and appreciate their band," Putka said. "The kids deserve someone who's excited for them...2021-10-1946 min
Petey PodcastFarm to School Tables: Apple Crunch Week!Send us a textWe're chomping our way to one million crunches as we celebrate all things apple in Elyria Schools this week during the 2021 Great Lakes Apple Crunch Week. Joining us in studio are Kathy Koepp and Lauryn Palgut. Koepp is a curriculum specialist and Palgut is the district's foodservice director. They're teaming up to bring apples into the classrooms and lunchrooms: promoting healthful eating, boosting knowledge of fruits and veggies and their superpowers, and highlighting apple farming and the farm-to-school-table connection. Crunch, crunch!It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for...2021-10-1217 min
Petey PodcastWe've Got a Friend in Elyria Township FireSend us a textThis episode of Petey Podcast, recorded earlier in October (2021), features Elyria Township Fire Chief Russ Scarbrough and Assistant Chief Art Mead. Elyria Township Fire is an staunch partner of the Elyria Schools and an excellent teacher of safety to our little learners at the Elyria Early Childhood Village and Westwood Elementary School. The Chief and Assistant Chief chatted with us about the work of firefighters every day and their work through these unprecedented times of COVID-19. At the end of the day, first responders do what they do for love of the work. "We...2021-10-1231 min
Petey PodcastReady, Set...CREATE!Send us a textWe're welcoming artist and Elyria Schools Teacher, Mel Rainey, in studio. Mel spends most of his days in the art classrooms of Elyria High School but today he joins us on Petey Podcast to send out a message to all young artists of Elyria Schools: Get creative, and enter your artwork in the Elyria Apple Art Contest! The Apple Art Contest takes place during the Elyria Apple Festival but entries are due by September 10. Elyria Schools students--grades one through 12--are eligible to participate. First, second and third place winners are possible in the...2021-09-0217 min
Petey PodcastIt's Apple Time!Send us a textThe Elyria Apple Festival is 40 years old. To talk about the history of the festival and what's to come this year, we welcome Apple Festival Committee members, Jim Vandemark and Stacey Francis. The Apple Festival takes place every year the third weekend of September downtown Elyria. The festival this year is September 17-19. The Apple Fest is Elyria's end-of-summer celebration with fair-type food, games, concerts, kid-centered activities and lots of side events such as the car show, a bike parade, an apple dessert contest and the Apple Art Contest, organized by the Elyria...2021-08-2540 min
Petey PodcastCooking Up New Ideas in School FoodSend us a textElyria Schools Chef Mark Blaszak and Aramark Foodservice Director Lauryn Palgut joined us over the summer in the Petey Podcast studio to talk school food. What are students seeing on the food lines this year? What's new and exciting in the central kitchen? And what the heck is an impinger? Get the scoop here! The Scientific Definition of Impinge: to strike or dash especially with a sharp collisionIt's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter...2021-08-1626 min
Petey PodcastLinking Up for SuccessSend us a textHappy 10th anniversary to Elyria High School's Link Crew program, a student-led plan for welcoming incoming freshmen and new students to Elyria High School. Elyria High Teacher Amanda Belcher is the Link Crew advisor but says the Link Crew leaders, who are upper classmen at Elyria High School, are the real leaders. "They serve as role models for our freshmen students and any transfer students coming to the high school," Belcher said. "We do team building excises with the whole group and then they divide up (in small groups) with the Link Leaders t...2021-08-1132 min
Petey PodcastSchool Safety Smarts with Tim DelVecchioSend us a textTim DelVecchio has worked in the business of criminal justice for 50 years. More than half this time was spent as a high ranking officer with the Ohio State Patrol, retiring as Commander of the Cleveland Metro Office in 2000. There was no time for grass to grow under Tim's feet before his security know-how was again put into action, this time at an international level. Tim was hired by the State Department to travel to Kosovo as part of the United Nations' first armed police mission anywhere in the world. Kosovo at the time wa...2021-07-2633 min
Petey PodcastMarshmallows, Sprinkles and Unicorn TootsSend us a textIf you come across something as magical as unicorn bark (a brightly colored white chocolate) and you’re in the business of ice cream…you make a sundae out of it! Novice ice cream makers might just toss the two ingredients together in a bowl and call it done. But if you’re Heather Baker, co-owner of Twist and Shake ice cream shop in Elyria, you know it takes more than a few delicious toppings to create a winning treat. You need a name that sells, and in this case, the Unicorn Fart was born...2021-07-2645 min
Petey PodcastA brand-new year. A "band"-new sound!Send us a textYou know a new school year is near when band camp arrives! On this episode of Petey Podcast we're joined by Director Aaron Putka and Assistant Director Pat Kostalnick of the Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band. This awesome twosome takes us through the excitement of a new season and band camp, and preps us for the fun and FUNdraising to come this season! (Fundraising links will be included at a later date. Follow the Elyria High School Pioneer Marching Band Boosters on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Elyria-High-School-Pioneer-Marching-Band-957348377662948/) ...2021-07-2631 min
Petey PodcastThe scuttlebutt with Parker Skutt!Send us a textWe’re joined by Elyria High School 2021 graduate and class leader, Parker Skutt. Parker chats with us about her high school experience—the opportunities and challenges—and how it prepared her for college life and helped reaffirm her areas of study: government and social policy. She gave this advice to current students of Elyria High School. "Take advantage of every opportunity especially if you're presented with an opportunity that is scary or intimidating," she said. " If you don't feel ready for it, you need to take that opportunity because obviously everything that y...2021-07-1547 min
Petey PodcastSister actSend us a textSchool's out for summer but luckily we have an "in" with a couple of students--sisters, in fact-- from Elyria Schools. Ella and Lilah are Pioneers and have attended Elyria Schools since the age of three. The sisters are students of former McKinley Elementary School and daughters of Petey Podcast host, Amy Higgins. The Foucher sisters joined us for a bit of gab on their experiences in Elyria Schools, memorable moments at McKinley, excitement for the new campus of Eastern Heights, and a little bit of puppy talk (because who doesn't like puppies, afterall!) 2021-07-1222 min
Petey PodcastElyria Athletics: It BECKons you!Send us a textElyria Athletic Director Heather Beck joins us on this episode of Petey Podcast to talk sports and how students can get involved. "Show up--day one--with a current physical and you're good to go!" Beck encourages students to be active and try a sport that interests them. Don't be intimidated to try something new, she said. "If your child is hesitant about trying out, watch for the camp information in April, May and June for the summer, and get them involved that way," Beck said. "The camps can be less intimidating. Even after one d...2021-06-2937 min
Petey PodcastEast to West Point! Elyria Grad Accepted to Elite Military AcademySend us a textEthan Trampush graduated with high honors from Elyria High School on June 9, 2021. Less than three weeks later, Ethan stepped onto the esteemed grounds of the United States Military Academy West Point to begin his career with the U.S. Army. Ethan was a guest on Petey Podcast just five days before he was due to begin basic training at the prestigious college of West Point. He spoke with us about the academic and physical rigors of West Point and how he prepared as a student in the Elyria Schools. Ethan took his oat...2021-06-2135 min
Petey PodcastTeacher Leaders Teach Leadership EssentialsSend us a textTodd Church and Rebecca Hamilton are "half-full" kind of people. The two middle school teachers from Elyria Schools have embraced the new skills and technology know-how they acquired during the pandemic with virtual learning. Church teaches at Westwood Middle School and Hamilton, at Northwood Middle School. The two collaborated on a pilot virtual class about leadership during the 2020-2021 school year. On the last day of the school year, we caught up with these two teachers on Petey Podcast to talk about the expansion of this popular class, Foundations of Leadership, in the 2021...2021-06-1423 min
Petey PodcastWhat's on your summer bucket list?Send us a textSummertime, summertime, sum, sum, summertime! It's the best time of year for getting out and enjoying nature and the world around you, especially after the confinement of the pandemic. "The theme of this summer should be connecting," said Marissa Pelsozy. "Give yourself permission to do things that you feel are safe." One thing to consider is creating a summer bucket list; things you want to do or places you want to see. "Sometimes when we think of bucket lists we think of big extravagant things, like to take a long road trip or g...2021-05-2723 min
Petey PodcastFull STEAM ahead!Send us a textDo you want to build a mini space vessel and shoot it into the air? Pilot a drone through the halls of your school? Or design a new product and develop the prototype right in your classroom? Or how about teaming up with classmates to conceptualize a product that could revolutionize a cause or an industry. They are doing all these things and more in Elyria High School's "Steam 2.0" class taught by Jeannine Stape. This past year the STEAM 2.0 class was offered only to seniors but in 2021-2022, Stape will offer a STEAM c...2021-05-2528 min
Petey PodcastWhat About Bot? Robotics in the Elyria SchoolsSend us a textWe're hearing from the masters in this episode on robotics. Elyria High School 10th grade students, Kloe Koepp and Ethan Boyes, and Robotics Coach, Mike West, take us through the intricacies of competitive robotics at the middle and high school levels. The Elyria Robotics teams are young in years of existence but ageless in their expertise. The students involved can speak to the highest levels of coding, building and chronicling their robot adventures. In the realm of robotics, these students are engineers, programmers and statisticians. More importantly though they are helpers, cheerleaders, problem...2021-05-2035 min
Petey PodcastUp to the Challenge! Pioneer Challenge DaySend us a text"To see the smiles on the athletes' faces, the accomplishment of "I did it," that's rewarding in itself...just seeing the happiness on their faces." This quote from Elyria Schools Special Olympics Coordinator Andy Menner and Assistant Coordinator Sam Boneta sums up the joy, excitement and true spirit of the game at the Special Olympics. The Special Olympics is postponed this year due to COVID but in its place will be Pioneer Challenge Day at Ely Stadium on May 28, 2021. Pioneer Challenge Day is a field day for students of Elyria Schools in the S...2021-05-1422 min
Petey PodcastBecoming B. Nicole: Music and MinistrySend us a textBrianna Harris is a paraprofessional in the Elyria Schools. So is her father, Tommie. Her mother, Tara, is a school building support associate. Her brother, DaVonte, coached in the district. They are a family in name and in education. But they also unite in the vocation of ministry, and they share the gift of musicality. Brianna just released her first gospel album under her music name of B. Nicole. Her father, Tommie, is the executive producer. On this episode of Petey Podcast, Brianna joins us with her father and mother to talk about t...2021-05-1238 min
Petey PodcastLittle Learners, Big Lessons: K Safety Day!Send us a textIn 2020 COVID-19 forced the delay or cancellation of so many memorable school moments. As a result, the incoming class of kindergarten students missed out on one of the rites of passage to turning five years old: Safety Town! Safety Town teaches five year olds important lessons about personal and community safety. To ensure these young students received these critical lessons the Elyria Schools team of Community Engagement Liaisons, led by Ashley Csata, initiated Kindergarten Safety Day for the kindergarteners who missed Safety Town in 2020. Safety Day took place over two weeks in May 2021. P...2021-05-0725 min
Petey Podcast¡Sí, se puede! It can be done!Send us a textNeed a little inspiration in your life? You'll find it in this episode of Petey Podcast! Elyria High School Senior Dereck Lopez Guzman came to Elyria, Ohio from Puerto Rico just two years ago. He spoke no English, and he and his family arrived just before the pandemic, making it that much harder for him to learn the language. For a teenager entering an American high school for the first time ever, these obstacles could seem insurmountable. Dereck only worked harder, and became more determined than ever to learn. He worked closely with...2021-05-0633 min
Petey PodcastNext Stop: Miss Ohio!Send us a textKiyasia Hudson graduated from Elyria High School in 2017. Since, she's been working hard at the University of Akron on her degrees in Food and Environmental Nutrition and Psychology. She's an active person, to the say the least, but her plate's about to get even fuller. In July, Kiyasia will compete in the Miss Universe program for the title of Miss Ohio USA. If she wins, she'll go on to compete in the Miss USA pageant in November. A win at the national level would move Kiyasia onto the Miss Universe pageant. And if...2021-05-0643 min
Petey PodcastFlower Power! With Stacy PandySend us a textTake time to stop and smell the flowers. And that's easy to do with a neighbor like Pandy's Garden Center! On this episode of Petey Podcast, we welcome Stacy Pandy. Stacey joined the Pandy business 27 years ago. Gardening runs deep in the Pandy family but so does pride in the Elyria Schools. As a youngster, Stacey attended elementary and middle school in Elyria and graduated from Elyria West High School. She's married to J.R. Pandy and their children, Michael and Justin, are graduates of Elyria High School. Today Stacy shares tips for pre...2021-05-041h 03
Petey PodcastPinning it down with Erik BurnettSend us a text"Live quality, happy lives and never give up." That's the message Elyria Wrestling Head Coach Erik Burnett conveys on the mat and in life at Elyria High School. Burnett is well-known in Elyria, Ohio and across the nation for dominating in the high school wrestling world. But he's also a force in the school district as an attendance expert and mentor to students. Burnett joins us on this episode of Petey Podcast to talk family, coaching, wrestling and Pioneer Pride.It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening...2021-04-291h 00
Petey PodcastThey're so fluffy! Hatching chicks in third gradeSend us a textWe're having fun in third grade science! A grant through the Ohio State University (OSU) Extension has made it possible for all students in third grade to act as "mama hens," hatching baby chicks right in the classroom! The project, called Chickquest, was brought to us by OSU's Sally Hennessy, who coordinates this and many other 4H/OSU Extension projects in Elyria Schools. Through OSU, Sally equipped each third grade science classroom with an incubator and a dozen hatching eggs containing three varieties of chicks. Each student also received a science kit of t...2021-04-2946 min
Petey PodcastHalt the Hackers!Send us a textStop reusing passwords! Simple steps like this will help cut your risk of falling victim to online hackers and identity thieves. Internet security expert Jim Kennedy of Binary Defense joins us on this episode of Petey Podcast with tips for safeguarding your personal and professional self. Binary Defense provides internet security services to the Elyria Schools and Kennedy is an internet professional with the district. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2021-04-2348 min
Petey PodcastThe "Meal" Deal: Chef Mark of Elyria Schools!Send us a textIt might surprise you to know the story of Chef Mark Blaszak, the meal master of Elyria Schools. He grew up in Elyria and found a love of cooking at an early age, leading him to the world of culinary arts where he was classically trained and worked under one of the best in the business: Cleveland native and food business giant , Michael Symon. From there, Chef Mark's career took an fascinating turn: he was hired by the Cleveland Indians as the team's personal chef where he spent 15 years cooking nutritionally packed specialty me...2021-04-1444 min
Petey PodcastMrs. Quarm's Baking ClubSend us a textVirtual teaching has opened the door to all kinds of out-of-the-box ideas for lessons, meet ups and student clubs. A stellar example of this is Mrs. Quarm's Baking Club. Michelle (Chelee) Quarm teaches fourth grade at Prospect Elementary School, Elyria, and it's been her tradition to bake healthful muffins and goodies for her students in class. She's known for making warm, tasty treats like homemade cinnamon rolls and pancakes, especially on test days to give students a hearty start to their day. With the pandemic, Mrs. Quarm's in-class baked goods went on hiatus. H...2021-04-0126 min
Petey PodcastReaders Theater Revealed with Kathy and Carla!Send us a textFrom the Gingerbread Man to Cinderella, education professionals Kathy Pero and Carla Valles have taken Readers Theater to new heights in the Elyria Schools. The duo began re-writing and personalizing traditional plays and fairytales; fitting them as perfectly as a glass slipper to the students they served within their classrooms that provide special education services. Pero, an Intervention Specialist, first brought her concept of Readers Theater to Valles, her teammate and Special Ed. Paraprofessional, in 2014. Their exclusive performances began that year with "The Gingerbread Man." Each play they've produced since has been adapted from...2021-03-3149 min
Petey PodcastMandy Mazzola: You've Got Mail!Send us a textA first grade map project is taking Ely Elementary students around the world! The students have been reading the book, "The Journey of Oliver K. Woodman," about a little friend made of wood who travels the country sending descriptive letters and postcards to family members along the way. Ely's Mandy Mazzola, a first grade teacher, took cues from the book to launch a social media project, asking her family members and school colleagues to send postcards from cities across the United States and abroad to Ely, so that her students could then plot t...2021-03-2226 min
Petey PodcastLizz Most with the Most on New Schools!Send us a textAhoy! We're setting sail in this episode of Petey Podcast with Job Captain Lizz Most of Architectural Vision Group, the architectural firm heading up the $140-million school construction project in Elyria. Lizz is a familiar face on the district's sister station: Elyria Schools Pioneer TV on YouTube, and often answers our construction questions and guides our tours through the new schools. We had a great time chatting with Lizz about where we are in this massive construction project and what we can look forward to as the project comes to a close in t...2021-03-181h 00
Petey PodcastHanging with Mr. BSend us a textMike Basinski--"Mr. B"--is a well-known personality in these parts. A life-long Elyrian and long-time principal in the Elyria Schools, Mike is synonymous with calm and comicality. In the 25 years he's spent working in the Elyria Schools, he's most associated with Northwood Middle School, where he's been principal since 2014. When you think Basinski, you think trivia. When Mike took the helm of Northwood seven years ago, he brought his personal love of all things learning to the community by posting weekly brainteasers on the Northwood sign; a sign that's poised prominently on Gul...2021-03-1136 min
Petey PodcastMore than a feelingSend us a textIf you're asked, "How are you feeling?" Are you able to identify the emotions you're experiencing beyond sad, mad, happy or glad? Elyria Schools Social Workers, Marissa Pelsozy and Cristina McCarthy, offer these excellent strategies for recognizing our emotions and finding balance in a harried world. Expert resources: Anger iceburg, Emotion regulation skillsIt's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2021-03-0928 min
Petey PodcastCoin Collecting Lands IT Guy on HGTVSend us a textBy day, Jay Cleland, is one of your friendly neighborhood IT guys at Elyria Schools. By night, Jay is an avid coin collector, always pursuing quality currency that holds significance in his already robust collection. One of his favorite treasure-hunting spots is an online auction site called Everything But the House. The site brings buyers and sellers together for "everything uncommon" and starts every bid at just $1. Jay is a frequent flyer on the site and has been for decades. That dedication got him noticed by the producers of a new television show d...2021-03-0339 minPetey PodcastTapping Your Positivity Superpower!Send us a text"Positive thinking is our under-rated superpower. We all have it and we all have the capability to do it; we don't give it the priority that it deserves." Elyria Schools' Social Worker, Chantille Jackson, had us all bobbing our heads in agreement when she made this insightful comment on healthy thinking. In this episode of Petey Podcast, Jackson and colleague, Marissa Pelsozy, offer tips for practicing positivity in our daily lives and actions. Expert resources: Cognitive triangle, Cognitive Model ExampleIt's a great day to be a Pioneer! T...2021-02-2520 minPetey PodcastSchool Nursing News: The COVID-19 VaccineSend us a textMedical professionals of Elyria Schools, Registered Nurses Tara DiFranco and Rose Hess, join us to talk about the COVID-19 vaccine: tips before receiving it and expectations after. They put the science of how the vaccine works into understandable language for us and answer the most common questions circulating about the vaccines and the vaccination process. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2021-02-2448 minPetey PodcastSuperintendent Ann Schloss: Dishing Up School NewsSend us a textThe COVID-19 pandemic took center stage in 2020, heightening safety concerns, halting everyday activities and occupations, and completely upending the school year for students, parents and school staff everywhere. Elyria Schools Superintendent Ann Schloss talks about how the district has coped during the crisis, and its continuous trek toward recovery. In chatting, she also highlights the new-school-construction project in Elyria and Elyria Township and hints at exciting things to come in the spring and fall of 2021. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, T...2021-02-231h 10Petey PodcastSchool days! Building a Foundation Through PreschoolSend us a textA preschool student must know nearly 170 skills before "graduating" to kindergarten. Amazing, right! In this episode of Petey Podcast we chat with the Elyria Schools guru of preschool education, Jackie Plantner, Principal of the Elyria Early Childhood Village and preschool director for Elyria Schools. Jackie schools us on the many aspects of preschool that make it a special and fundamental step in a child's educational career. Expert resources: Be a Pioneer! Enroll online in the Elyria Schools: https://www.elyriaschools.org/Page/754 or call Central Registration at 440-2...2021-02-1857 min
Petey PodcastNull Leaves VoidSend us a textLongtime Elyria Schools staffer, Rene Null, retired in 2021 after 28 years in the district, 26 of which were spent at Northwood as the school's secretary. In that seat she's seen it all! In this episode of Petey Podcast, Rene takes us down memory lane to some of her favorite 8th grade Washington D.C. moments, principals present and past, and good times overall with the staff, students and families of Northwood school. It's a great day to be a Pioneer! Thanks for listening. Find Elyria Schools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!2021-02-1844 minPetey PodcastWinning Jeopardy! Insight from a ChampionSend us a textElyria native Nicole Kozdron (Elyria High School Class of 2001) now holds a distinguished place in the who's who of game-show television: She's a Jeopardy champion! Nicole was a contestant on the iconic show on Wednesday, Feb. 3, and handily defeated her competitors, moving on to a second round that aired the following evening. She lost in round two by close margin but said the experience was one in a million. In this episode, we talk with Nicole about what it was like to be on television and to achieve her dream of appearing on...2021-02-1145 minPetey PodcastMarsalis Hammons: Leading by ExampleSend us a textHe's a scholar, a mentor, an educator, a business professional and a community leader. He's also a Pioneer. Elyria born and raised, Marsalis Hammons graduated from Elyria High School in 2013. Less than a decade later, he's the CEO and founder of Leaders of Today, a non-profit organization that helps high school students lead in the classroom, locker room and community. Marsalis also works full time for Cleveland Metropolitan School District on the district's Human Resources team, and in 2021, was named by Leadership Lorain County as a "Difference Maker," earning the Emerald Award for Ins...2021-02-1057 min