Shows
2026-02-0603 minThe Husky HuddleFamily-Friendly Events: Bingo, Cookies, And Community ConnectionWe share details for Family Fall Fun Night at Washington West with activities that welcome every family and student, plus what’s ahead with Cookies with Santa and an affordable Holiday Shop. Volunteers, prizes, and simple traditions build a warm, inclusive school community.• Family Fall Fun Night on Friday 5:30–7 pm at Washington West• Bingo with prizes and announcements throughout• Temporary tattoos and cookie decorating with 200 cookies provided• Building-wide scavenger hunt with prize for completed sheets• Shift from Halloween to inclusive fall theme• Student and university volunteers supporting stations• Cookies with Santa on Friday 5 Decemb...
2025-11-1207 minThe Husky HuddleCelebrating Academic Excellence At Olean High SchoolRecognition shouldn’t be rare—or reserved for a select few. We sit down with social studies teacher and Olean parent Joelle Perry to share how a homegrown honor roll celebration turned quiet effort into visible pride, grew participation to hundreds of students, and set a new standard for academic culture at Olean High School.Joelle traces the spark back to middle school traditions and a candid post-observation chat that asked, “What could we do better?” The answer became a three-times-a-year celebration that blends heartfelt teacher tributes with irresistible incentives: a warm breakfast of home fries, bacon, and loca...
2025-11-1212 minThe Husky HuddleInside Olean High’s Library with Brionna Howard: How “Book Tastings” Lit a Spark and Quadrupled CheckoutsA quiet library turned into a buzzing café of curiosity—and it changed how students read. We sit down with Olean High School librarian Brianna Howard to unpack the “book tasting” that quadrupled circulation in a month, the power of visible mentorship, and the small choices that make reading feel irresistible instead of required. Starting as a social studies teacher and now in her second year as librarian, Brianna blends data, design, and heart to build a space where students explore freely. She walks us through eight high-interest genres, the simple menu system that invites quick sampling, and the classro...
2025-10-0114 min
Achieving Joy and Mastery in Public SchoolsOlean City Schools - “Where the Music Feels Like Home”In this episode, we were privileged to interview Dr. Genelle Morris, the Superintendent of the Olean City School District. Genelle spoke about their comprehensive Music program spanning UPK- 12th grade. Joining us as guests of this podcast were: Tobi Snyder (Music Chair, OIMS Band/Orch), Susan Boyle (Orch, 4th grade and OHS), Bill Hughey (WW General Music, Prek-3), Evan Snyder, senior in Orchestra and valedictorian and Iraya Prosser, senior in Band, Orchestra and Chorus. Find us on Twitter @NiagaraErieOr...
2025-05-161h 032025-03-2214 min
Leaders Learning From LeadersA Conversation with Dr. Genelle Morris, Superintendent, Olean City School District, NYDr. Morris is proud to serve as Superintendent of the Olean City School District. She joined the district in July of 2022. A passionate advocate for providing high-quality education for all children, Dr. Morris has spent more than 30 years in education, dedicating her life to ensuring each child graduates from high school ready for college or a career. While pursuing that goal, she worked in varying roles, including science instruction, curriculum and assessment development, and leading work in assessment, accountability, research, and evaluation at the district level.
Before joining Olean, Dr. Morris worked in Buffalo Public Sc...
2024-07-2530 minThe Husky HuddleBringing Finding Nemo to Life: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Olean's Junior Musical with Teacher Steve AhlWho doesn’t love the magic of "Finding Nemo"? Our latest episode bursts with excitement as we welcome Steve Ahl, our new French teacher at Olean, and a dedicated member of the Summer STAR Program since 2011. Steve takes us on his journey from being an Olean native to becoming an indispensable part of this beloved program. We dive into the STAR program's unique structure, where kids explore activities ranging from cooking and coding to robotics and poetry, all while being free from the pressures of traditional grading. The highlight? The Junior Musical, where this year’s students are gearing up t...
2024-07-2212 minThe Husky HuddleCultural Exchanges and Camaraderie: The Untold Benefits of Model UNEver wondered how debating global issues can shape your future? Join us on this captivating episode of the Husky Huddle podcast as we sit down with Desi Muir and Ruby Chahal, our first-ever student guests, who share their transformative experiences with Model United Nations (Model UN). Desiree, an aspiring English teacher, and Ruby, who plans to major in Political Science, give us a window into their world—recounting their time at various Model UN conferences, including a spirited debate on world hunger at Cornell University. From cultural exchanges to the camaraderie built during overnight stays and delegate dances, their st...
2024-06-1111 min
What’s Next?What's Next? | Producer Picks Featuring Hagar Hafez and Dr. Genelle MorrisWe revisit two stand-out conversations with Hagar Hafez from the New York Immigration Coalition and Olean City School District Superintendent Dr. Genelle Morris.
2024-06-0658 minThe Husky HuddleSaying Thanks!: Sarah Morris on Mentorship for Olean's New TeachersWelcome the return of the remarkable Sarah Morris to the Husky Huddle, where we unlock the secrets to nurturing new talent in our educational family. Together, we dissect the mentorship programs that have been a game-changer for our district's fledgling teachers, ensuring they're not just surviving but thriving. Sarah's expertise shines as we tackle the hurdles of navigating Teach accounts, fostering professional certification, and the immeasurable value of local community involvement. From the local music scene to the paper mills, hear how these partnerships bolster our educators' success and keep them woven into the fabric of our community....
2024-05-2115 min
Teaching ChampionsLeadership, Relationships, and Looking Toward the Future of Education with Dr. Genelle MorrisIn this conversation I’m joined by Dr. Genelle Morris. Dr. Morris has over 30 years in education and is currently serving the role as superintendent. She is passionate about education and has dedicated her life to ensuring each child graduates from high school ready for college or a career. And in this conversation Dr. Morris dives into leadership lessons she has learned from her various experiences, she discusses the importance of building relationships, creating trust, and being authentic. We also dive into the future of education, AI, and planning for the future. Dr. Morris is prou...
2024-05-1940 minThe Husky HuddleNavigating the Fiscal Landscape: Jenny Bilotta on Olean City School District's $56 Million Educational InvestmentUnlock the mystery behind a school district's budget and discover the pivotal role you play in shaping the future of education! We sit down with Jenny Bilotta, our formidable business administrator, to scrutinize the proposed $56 million budget of the Olean City School District for the 24-25 academic year. This eye-opening discussion peels back the layers of fiscal decisions, revealing how they align with our district's mission and the impact on our cherished student programs. Jenny meticulously outlines strategic initiatives, including the exciting launch of a computer science curriculum and the expansion of our MTSS initiatives, underscoring our dedication to...
2024-05-1611 minThe Husky HuddleCharting the Future of Literacy: Jen Kless Unveils Olean City Schools' Innovative ELA CurriculumEmbark on an educational odyssey with us as Jen Kless, Olean City Schools' Director of Curriculum and Instruction, recounts her compelling transition from a kindergarten classroom to the halls of district leadership. Witness the unveiling of a groundbreaking ELA curriculum, as Jen lays bare the transformative journey from a traditional balanced literacy framework to an innovative approach designed to ensure sustainability, equity, and consistency across our schools. With a vision for equitable literacy education that transcends classroom boundaries, Jen and her dynamic team—comprising educators from varying specialties—have crafted a curriculum that promises to sculpt the future of lite...
2024-05-1014 minThe Husky HuddleForging Educational Excellence: Assistant Superintendent Dr. Michael Irizarry's Strategy for Attracting and Supporting Top Educators at Olean City School DistrictImagine stepping into a school district radiating with pride and a mission-driven team ready to make a difference. That's exactly what Dr. Michael Irizarry, the Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services in the Olean City School District, does every day, and he's here to share the playbook on how to recruit and retain the cream of the crop in education. In our latest Husky Huddle episode, we go behind the scenes of what it takes to create a thriving educational team. Dr. Irizarry, in his inaugural year, has not only woven the district's values into his strategy but also ensured...
2024-05-0315 minAchieving Joy and Mastery in Public SchoolsOlean City Schools - Strategic Planning and the Power of BelongingIn this episode, we were privileged to interview Dr. Genelle Morris, the Superintendent of the Olean City School District. Genelle spoke about her process for developing a Strategic Plan and the power of belonging. She references the work with Evaluative Beings and the concept of Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity, a book by Floyd Cobb, John Krownapple and Brenda Campbell. Additionally, Genelle has partnered with the author John Krownapple to take a deep dive into achieveing equity in her school district.Find us on Twitter @NiagaraErieOr visit our...
2024-04-1339 minThe Husky HuddleThe Art of Building School Spirit and Student Leaders at OIMS with Assistant Principal Rich DiMartinoJoin us as we sit down with Rich DeMartino, assistant principal of Olean Intermediate Middle School (OIMS), to explore the transformative power of extracurriculars in student life. We're not just talking about after-school activities; we're diving into a world where clubs and sports become catalysts for personal growth, leadership development, and forging deep connections within the school community. Rich brings to light the significant strides the Student Activities Council made in boosting school spirit and outlines the eagerly anticipated end-of-year events that celebrate student achievements. Listen in for an enriching discussion on the multifaceted benefits of student engagement beyond...
2024-04-1012 minThe Husky HuddleWelcoming the Solar Eclipse with OCSD Science Teachers Dan Freeman and Matt WolebenPrepare to be whisked away on an educational journey led by Dan Freeman and Matt Woleben, as we explore the cosmic wonders of the upcoming April 8th total solar eclipse. Learn more about Star Lab sessions, where EV, WW, and OIMS students become astute observers of the skies, versed in the delicate dance of celestial bodies. Our hands-on approach equips our future astronomers with knowledge of safe viewing practices and fosters an infectious excitement that has the whole district buzzing. It's safe to say we are all excited for April 8, the day we stand united under the full eclipse o...
2024-04-0109 minThe Husky HuddleDecoding the Budgetary Blueprint for Quality Education with OCSD Business Administrator Jenny BilottaUnlock the secrets behind the numbers that shape our children's education, as we sit down with Jenny Bilotta, our OCSD Business Administrator with a treasure trove of experience spanning two decades. She takes us behind the scenes of school district budget development, revealing how strategic foresight blends with the needs of students to craft fiscal blueprints. From the precision required to forecast expenditures 18 months ahead to the critical balance of salaries and contractual commitments, Bilotta breaks down the importance of smart spending without compromising educational quality. She sheds light on innovative cost-saving strategies, the ripple effects of inflation on...
2024-03-2617 minThe Husky HuddleOrchestrating Success: OCSD Teacher Susan Boyle's Harmonious Impact on Music Education and Community UnityWhen Susan Boyle decided to pick up the baton as a high school orchestra teacher, little did she know her story would strike a chord with so many. Our latest episode strings together the melody of her journey from a Kansas native to a beacon of musical hope in the Olean City School District. Immerse yourself in Susan's narrative, where the harmony of small group sessions and the crescendo of large ensemble rehearsals craft a symphony of educational excellence. Feel the pulse of anticipation as we anticipate the grand performance of Susan's students on June 5th, where the high...
2024-03-2512 minThe Husky HuddleFrom Military Discipline to Academic Excellence: The Leadership Evolution of Assistant Principal Jennifer Palaszynska-MellottMeet Jennifer Palaszynska-Mellott, the Assistant Principal at Olean High School with a story that's as unique as it is inspiring. As we chat, you'll be drawn into Jennifer's journey from the disciplined life of the military to the vibrant corridors of education. Her tales aren't just captivating – they're a masterclass in leadership adaptability. Witness the transformation of military precision into academic finesse, and discover how these skills are essential for nurturing a school environment where every student feels valued and part of a triumphant team.This episode is a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the challenges of policy en...
2024-03-2526 minThe Husky HuddleShaping Young Minds with Compassion: A Conversation with Washington West's Principal Lauren StuffAs the halls of Washington West echo with the sounds of laughter and learning, we're reminded that the heart of education beats not just through textbooks, but through the compassionate connections we foster. On today's Husky Huddle, we're joined by Lauren Stuff, the inspirational principal from Washington West, whose journey from a spirited teacher at IJN to a visionary educational leader has reshaped the landscape of social emotional learning in our schools.Lauren unveils the transformative measures embraced by her school to cultivate an environment where every student is seen and heard. From the emotionally intelligent "check-in"...
2024-03-2214 minThe Husky HuddleEmbracing the Total Eclipse: A Guide with OCSD Director of Special Programs Jen MaharPrepare for an astronomical spectacle as Jen Mahar, director of special programs at Olean City Schools, shares her wealth of knowledge on the upcoming total eclipse. In our latest Husky Huddle podcast, Jen, with over two decades of educational expertise, outlines how the community and schools are buzzing with preparations for this rare event. She discusses the expected timeline of the eclipse, vital safety measures to protect our eyes, and the educational opportunities that will bring science to life for students.As the moon prepares to perform its grand celestial dance on April 8th, our schools are...
2024-03-1807 minThe Husky HuddleCrafting a Community of Learners with Olean City Schools' teacher Sarah MorrisEmbark on an educational odyssey with Sarah Morris, whose life story twists like a riveting novel, from PR to pedagogy, across oceans to the heart of Europe, and finally back to American soil here in the Olean City Schools. In this episode, Sarah discussed the soul of education through her eyes, recounting a 17-year career highlighted by a transformative Czech sojourn. Her narrative isn't just about teaching and working on climate and culture for our staff- it's a heartwarming tale of finding love and nurturing a vision of educational leadership. Sarah's experiences exemplify the profound ways our professional journeys c...
2024-03-1026 minThe Husky HuddleNavigating School AccountabilityDiscover the heartbeat of educational excellence as we delve into the intricacies of school accountability with me, Dr. Genelle Morris. As the proud superintendent of the Olean City School District, I discuss the latest measures shaping our schools and the impact they have on our diverse student body. This episode is a journey through the successes and hurdles we face in providing an equitable learning experience, underscored by the New York State Education Department's accountability measures.Our conversation navigates through the delicate balance of accountability measures and our strategic framework. I'll share how our strategic plan for...
2024-02-2108 minThe Husky HuddleCultivating Passion in the Classroom at East View ElementaryUnlock the secrets to making learning irresistible for our Olean elementary students as Laura Hodara, the energetic principal of East View Elementary, takes us on a journey through her innovative strategies for student engagement. As the first guest on the Husky Huddle podcast, Laura describes how her experiences have prepared her with actionable insights that are transforming the classroom experience. This episode is a treasure trove for educators and parents alike, promising to reveal how to cultivate an environment where students are not just present but passionately involved in their education.During our conversation, Laura unveiled her...
2024-02-2112 minWhat’s Next?What's Next? | Rural-Adjacent Education with Dr. Genelle MorrisWhat’s Next? ventures down to Olean to speak with Dr. Genelle Morris, superintendent for the Olean City School District. Before assuming that role in 2022, she spent years in the Rochester and Buffalo schools in a variety of roles, including working in accountability. Her education work has balanced both the data and the people it represents. Dr. Morris joins Jay Moran in her office at Olean High School for a conversation about the state of education in the Southern Tier, how important the data is for making effective changes, COVID’s impact on the classroom, and more.
2024-02-1456 minThe Husky HuddleHusky Huddle IntroWelcome to our inaugural episode of the Husky Huddle, the official podcast of the Olean City School District!
2024-02-1202 min