Shows
Music for All Podcast NetworkDavid & Rachel Puckett | Culture Before Content - Ep. 71In this episode, David speaks with David Puckett, retired music educator from Keller ISD, TX, and his daughter Rachel, Promotions Senior Coordinator at Music for All!Join David Duarte as he discusses the methods, challenges, and benefits of building a positive culture within the classroom. Hear different perspectives from music educators of all backgrounds, and learn how they build a culture of intrinsic motivation, collaboration, and growth within their own ensembles.Watch this episode with video: https://youtube.com/live/5_7vLp030UY?feature=share
2025-10-1352 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkStudy Hall: Health Services & School NursingThe most important part to a student's academic success is being present and ready to learn, and Keller ISD's Health Services Department and phenomenal school nurses work to make sure that kids are cared for and able to maximize their time while in school. Join KISD Health Services Director Jodi Webster and nurses Nicole Lee and Amy Bache as we pull back the curtain on school nursing and discover the many ways these health heroes provide support to our campuses and keep our students’ learning at the forefront.For more information about Keller ISD, visit www.Ke...
2025-10-0934 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkStudy Hall: Back-to-School Chat with KISD's New SuperintendentKeller ISD is excited to welcome back students for the 2025-26 school year, and excited to welcome back our listeners for a new season of the Study Hall podcast. Join new Superintendent Dr. Cory Wilson as we learn more about his journey to this new leadership role and what the KISD community can expect from our schools over the coming months. For more information about Keller ISD, visit www.KellerISD.net, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes, and leave us a comment to l...
2025-08-2117 min
817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowActivating the Next Generation: A Conversation with Tarrant County Young DemocratsThis week, for our big story, we sit down with Hunter Griffin and Emeri Calloway from the Tarrant County Young Democrats to showcase how young people in Tarrant County make a difference when fighting for democracy. TCYD helped fight Tim O'Hare's attempt to eliminate college campus voting sites, Keller ISD's attempt to resegregate, and get a Fort Worth progressive elected. We listen to their origin story and how a band of small groups can make a difference while also building community. Enjoy! Watch on YouTube | Join the Discord | Attend an 817 GatherThe short stories for the week a...
2025-07-071h 22
The Jerry Jonestown MassacreShow 621 – More Than One Keller
The issues surrounding the split of Keller ISD and Fort Worth ISD have been in the news quite a bit recently, so we invited our friend Richard Keller to join us in the Temple this week to get us all up to speed on what’s going on. Richard has been on the front line, attending several school board meetings over the past few months. He also recently spent some time in Japan, so we discussed his trip and what he saw and experienced.
Executive Producers of Show 621- Jeremie Perez
Spotify Link Itunes Link Go...
2025-04-032h 09817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowWhere Do Fort Worth Democrats Go From Here?Democrats have been making gains across the country in special elections, but what does that mean for Tarrant County, where our GOP Judge is looking to rezone the county in his favor and the Tarrant Democratic Party can barely afford rent? Ann and EJ analyze the city, county, and state situation and believe hope exists. Be a part of the hope and attend a Gather. Join our Discord.SHORT STORY 1: Legacy Downtown Wells Fargo Bank Moves to ClearforkSHORT STORY 2: Parents sue Trinity Valley School, allege sexual abuse...
2025-03-3158 min
Believe in the Leap#138: I’m Here for People, Not Politics – Marissa Bryce on Leading Keller ISD with ClarityIn this conversation, Marissa Bryce discusses her candidacy for the Keller ISD School Board, driven by her experiences as a parent and her commitment to fostering unity, transparency, and educational excellence. She addresses the challenges facing Keller ISD, including funding issues and community division, and shares her vision for empowering teachers and restoring trust within the community. Marissa emphasizes the importance of clear communication and the need to combat misinformation while advocating for the needs of students and educators alike.takeawaysMarissa Bryce is a dedicated mother and community advocate.She was inspired to run for...
2025-03-3034 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowDFW is no longer the fastest growing metro: What is Fort Worth's Outlook?Ann and EJ are guest-less this pod, which is the first in weeks! Ann attends a Mayoral panel where the last four mayors of Fort Worth talk about the past, present, and future of Fort Worth. This leads to the question: Is Fort Worth better today than pre-pandemic or post Betsy Price?SHORT STORY #1: Keller ISD Remains One District- Keller ISD abandons plan to split district into two, citing financial barriers- ‘It’s not over’: Opponents of squashed Keller ISD split rejoice, but demand transparency- Effort to div...
2025-03-171h 07817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowFWISD Teachers Speak Out Against Abbott's Voucher Bill and What We Know About School ClosuresAle Checka, an award-winning public school teacher with 17 years of experience in FWISD, organized an opinion piece in the Star-Telegram to oppose Governor Abbott's Voucher Program. This voucher program aims to defund public schools while subsidizing private schools for privileged families. FWISD is already facing budget cuts and school closures, and this bill could exacerbate these challenges in our school communities. We are in the 9th inning, so Ale joins Ann and EJ to get us out of our seats and into the streets advocating for our public schools.SHORT STORY #1: Steer FW Recap
2025-03-0359 min
The Church GuysCollege Football KickoffIt is that time of year that we all know and love. College football is upon on us. We take an in depth look at the newly released top 25 AP poll, as well as the schedule and give our picks in key big games for the next two weeks. We talk a lot about the University of Texas and Texas A&M football and give our opinions how we believe they will do in the upcoming season. A discussion on how book review program in Keller ISD and a Christian outlook and what that might look like.
2025-03-0141 min
The Church GuysCollege Football KickoffIt is that time of year that we all know and love. College football is upon on us. We take an in depth look at the newly released top 25 AP poll, as well as the schedule and give our picks in key big games for the next two weeks. We talk a lot about the University of Texas and Texas A&M football and give our opinions how we believe they will do in the upcoming season. A discussion on how book review program in Keller ISD and a Christian outlook and what that might look like.
2025-03-0141 min
Fort Worth Local Pulse"Fort Worth News: Oscar Nod, Extreme Cold, Tech Boom, and Community Spirit"Good morning, this is Fort Worth Local Pulse for February 25, 2025. We're starting off with some exciting news from the entertainment world. Fort Worth is celebrating its Oscar-nominated musician, Abraham Alexander, with a send-off party ahead of the Academy Awards. Alexander's song "Like a Bird" for the movie "Sing Sing" is one of five songs nominated in this year's Original Song category. We're proud to call him a Fort Worth resident.In sports, thousands of runners took part in The Cowtown races over the weekend at Will Rogers Memorial Center. The event included a 10K, Adult 5K, Kid's 5K...
2025-02-2503 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowKeller ISD Students Share Their Voice: Why Will the School Board Not Listen?Today, the 817 Pod community hears from Lara and Zephyr, two students at Keller High School who are part of the Keller Student Activism Organization. This grassroots movement was initiated by a small but determined group of students who have made their voices heard at recent board meetings and organized a school walkout to protest the board's proposal to split the school district into two parts. This plan is controversial and has garnered opposition from community leaders, who are presenting evidence to highlight the lack of transparency and the need for the people to have a say through a vote.
2025-02-1747 min
Skip the Noise PodcastNah, it ain't that badOn this episode, they guys discuss the political news with Elonious Muskus and Donaldo Magnus. We also discuss the mayor of NY sweet deal and what is happening at Keller ISD, and is it going to be a trend.
2025-02-171h 06
Wake Up with KERA NewsEnthusiasts talk about what makes vintage thrifting so specialOn today's show: Keller ISD students have organized a walk-out this morning, what makes SwapCon so special, and Super Bowl LIX watch parties.Wake Up with KERA News is hosted by Andrew Garcia, and produced and edited by Shardae White and Bekah Morr.Music: Awakening by Ikoliks
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2025-02-0707 min
School Rules PodcastSchool Rules Podcast: E2-2025: Keller ISD, Ethical Leadership, and Moral vs. Servant LeadershipIn this episode, Dr. Burkett provides an update on the conversations happenings in Keller ISD regarding the district split. He also explores the concepts of ethical leadership and the differences between moral and servant leadership.
#educationalleadership #leadership #ethics #moral #servants #schoolleadership #kellerisd #schoolboard
2025-02-0637 min
Texas StandardWhy does Keller ISD want to split in two?
The Trump administration’s tariffs on China have taken effect, while tariffs on Canada and Mexico are on hold for now – but the threat looms, along with uncertainly. We’ll break down what it means for the state.Pete Hegseth, the new secretary of defense, visits the Texas/Mexico border. What he says about sending more troops.When is a school district too big? Plans to split Keller ISD in two have led to an outcry.And: Most state lawmakers won’t approve recreational marijuana or gambling, but what do Texans want? Details from a new survey.
2025-02-0450 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowThe Bigger Story Behind School Vouchers in Texas with Chris and Mendi TackettThis week, the big story is a sit down with Chris and Mendi Tackett from See It. Name It. Fight It. Chris was a former school board trustee and an influential voice on CNN's Deep in the Pockets of Texas. He shares his expansive research and foresight since the show and his upcoming workshop for those interested in running for their community's school board. Mendi's experience is following the nuances around Christian nationalism in Texas and how we have to hold Republicans even more accountable beyond vouchers! This is a dynamic duo, which is why...
2025-02-032h 14
The Dallas Morning NewsIs the Keller ISD superintendent out after opposing a plan to split the district? ... and more newsKeller’s schools superintendent may leave her job after speaking out against a proposal to split the school district in two. An agenda for Thursday’s school board meeting includes action items for trustees to consider a voluntary separation agreement and name an interim superintendent. In other news, a former Dallas police sergeant was charged last week on federal gun charges, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. Thomas Michael Fry was indicted Wednesday with three counts of possession and sale of a stolen firearm. He faces up to 30 y...
2025-01-2805 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowWhat You Need to Know about Keller ISD and How It Can Impact Your Schools and ChildrenToday, we have a conversation with Laney Hawes, a mother of four children who attends schools at Keller ISD. She is also the co-founder of the TX Freedom to Read Project, which seeks to connect, support & mobilize parent-led groups fighting to protect students' right to read throughout the state. Her conversation is timely as Keller ISD's next school board meeting is on Thursday.We will continue our regular program next week. Join our community Discord and attend our next 817 Gather on February 16th.
2025-01-2753 minSchool Rules PodcastSchool Rules Podcast: E1-2025: Special Guest Shawna Lee, Leadership, and Keller ISD BreakdownThis week my guest is Shawna Lee. She is a keynote poet, Legacy Designer, educator, speaker, and author of the book "Juicy Gems: Never Doubt Yourself Again". She is also the CEO for PRISM of Transformation, LLC.
We also discuss what happens when there is an absence of #leadership and what it means to be a #transformationalleader.
Lastly, we breakdown the issues happening in #kellerisd and how the district reached a point where they want to divide the school district.
We did a School Rules Podcast Breakdown last week on the school board...
2025-01-2244 min
Wake Up with KERA NewsTalking to members of the inaugural ensemble “The President’s Own.”On today's show: The Fort Worth Mayor calls for an election to resolve the controversial proposal to split Keller ISD, talking to members of the inaugural ensemble “The President’s Own.”, and sweet movie screening. Wake Up with KERA News is hosted by Andrew Garcia, and produced and edited by Shardae White and Bekah Morr.Music: Awakening by Ikoliks
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2025-01-2107 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowInterview with Mayoral Candidate Josh Lucas plus Keller ISD and More Deaths in our JailAnn and EJ sit down with Josh Lucas, an emerging star in Fort Worth who is running for Mayor in this election cycle. In this episode, we discuss the deaths occurring in the Tarrant County jail and the spread of Christian White Nationalism in Texas churches. Enjoy the discussion, and be sure to support Josh!SHORT STORY #1: How what is going on in Keller ISD can impact Texas schools across the state.- Stop the secrecy’: Keller ISD residents overwhelmingly oppose plan to split district- Why a plan to split Keller ISD in...
2025-01-201h 22
The Dumb Zone FREEDZ 1-17-25: NFL Playoff weekend with Chappy and the Rangers new streaming option with Jared Sandler PREVIEWHear the entire episode of The Dumb Zone by subscribing at DumbZone.com or Patreon.com/TheDumbZoneChappy helps us preview this weekend's divisional round of the NFL playoffs and Rangers radio and TV, Jared Sandler, helps explain the new streaming option when it comes to watching Rangers baseball next year. Plus, Keller ISD had a school board meeting last night, TC confuses a podcast host, and Heart Attack Man joins us for Today in History
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2025-01-1713 minSchool Rules PodcastSchool Rules Podcast Breakdown: The Keller ISD Split Debate Update
In this School Rules Podcast Breakdown, Dr. Burkett gives a quick update on the drama surrounding the Keller ISD district split proposed by the school board and the community response.
2025-01-1710 minFort Worth Local PulseFort Worth News Update: Homicides, Job Growth, MLK Celebrations, School Talks, and Community EventsGood morning, this is Fort Worth Local Pulse for Friday, January 17, 2025. We're starting the day with a mix of news and updates that impact our daily lives.First off, let's talk about the recent incidents that have shaken our community. Unfortunately, Fort Worth has seen its first two homicides of 2025, with a domestic dispute and an apparent car burglary leading to these tragic events. Our thoughts are with the families affected by these incidents.Moving on to the job market, we have some positive news. The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that...
2025-01-1703 minFort Worth Local PulseFort Worth Update: Schools Reopen, Job Market Grows, Crime ConcernsGood morning, this is Fort Worth Local Pulse for Monday, January 13, 2025. We're starting the week with some significant updates from our city.First off, we have some good news for parents and students. After a brief closure due to icy and snowy conditions, all Keller ISD and Northwest ISD schools and offices are scheduled to resume normal operations today[1]. This comes as a relief to many families who had to adjust their schedules over the past couple of days.Moving on to the job market, we have some positive news. The latest data from the Bureau...
2025-01-1303 minFort Worth Local Pulse"Fort Worth Tech Boom, Icy School Closures, and Community Good News"Good morning, this is Fort Worth Local Pulse for January 13, 2025. We're starting the day with some welcome news for parents and students: after a brief closure due to icy and snowy conditions, all Keller ISD and Northwest ISD schools and offices are scheduled to resume normal operations today[1].Moving on to the job market, Fort Worth continues to thrive. The latest data shows our labor force has seen a steady increase, with approximately 495,000 workers as of October 2024, up 2.87% from the previous year. Major hiring announcements include high-paying tech jobs, with AI Architects leading the charts with salaries over $200,000...
2025-01-1303 min817 Podcast - Fort Worth's Monday Morning ShowConsidering Running for Local Office? What to know with Tara MaldonadoThis week, filing starts to put your name on the ballot in a local Texas election. We sit down with Tara Maldonado, a progressive candidate who ran three times for city council in Fort Worth. Ann and Tara share stories and perspectives that give average listeners a genuine look inside what it takes. SHORT STORY #1: Censoring Art: Modern Exhibit Receives Backlash- The Modern Releases Statement Regarding Removed Sally Mann Photographs in Fort Worth- Don’t let critics censor Fort Worth photo exhibit because they see iniquity, not artSH...
2025-01-131h 40
Progress Texas PodcastsDaily Dispatch 10/15/24: Cruz And Allred Square Off In Only Debate Tonight, and MoreStories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:
The only debate between Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic challenger Congressman Colin Allred is scheduled for tonight in Dallas: https://www.yahoo.com/news/ted-cruz-colin-allred-meet-040719061.html?guccounter=1
...The debate comes as internal Republican polling shows Cruz's lead having narrowed to one single point: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/10/13/senate-republican-poll-memo-00183570
...In a panic, Cruz has been attacking the Senate Leadership Fund, which is run by Mitch McConnell, with whom he has frequently clashed: https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/4932873-cruz-slf-mcconnell-senate-texas/
Governor Abbott is revealed to...
2024-10-1508 min
Wake Up with KERA NewsDemand for fire services in rural Collin County strain small fire department's resourcesOn today's show: A controversial new theater policy in Keller ISD, the lone senate race debate in Texas tonight, and a spooky cemetery tour.Subscribe to the Wake Up with KERA News newsletter here. Wake Up with KERA News is hosted by Andrew Garcia, and produced by Shardae White. Music: Awakening by Ikoliks
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2024-10-1507 min
Progress Texas PodcastsDaily Dispatch 10/10/24: Cruz And Texas GOP Double Down On LGBTQ Hate, and MoreStories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:
Republican candidates statewide, including Ted Cruz, have centered their closing messages for the election on anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ hate: https://www.houstonchronicle.com/politics/election/2024/article/ted-cruz-transgender-ads-19826315.php
The Afiya Center in Dallas is pointing out that the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision not to force Texas hospitals to save pregnant patients from deadly pregnancies with abortion care will disproportionately affect Black women: https://www.keranews.org/texas-news/2024-10-10/supreme-court-texas-emergency-abortions-black-women-afiya-center
Texas Trump types are also continuing to push false theories of voter fraud...
2024-10-1007 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkStudy Hall: Safety & SecurityKeller ISD is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment for all students, as well as a secure working environment for KISD employees.
Join Dr. Johnson as we visit with the leaders of Keller ISD's safety and security efforts to learn more about just a few of the actions taken to keep kids safe.
Learn more about Keller ISD Safety & Security at www.KellerISD.net/Safety.
For more information about Keller ISD, visit www.KellerISD.net, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Be sure to...
2024-10-0747 min
Billy The Kidd In The MorningTuesday 27, August: Keller ISD Has Adopted A New School Policy Over Pronouns And Many People Think This Is Not Good For The Students
2024-08-281h 07
Texas Minute8.27.2024: Million purged from Texas vote roll.Biden-Harris Lose Track of Thousands of Unaccompanied Minors…Abbott: 1.1 Million Ineligible Voters Removed from Texas Rolls…Drag Show Hosted in Dallas with Minors Present…Keller ISD Requires Teachers to Use Pronouns Matching Student Birth Certificates…
2024-08-2705 min
Daily Headlines8/26/24 1.1 Million Ineligible Voters Taken off Voter Rolls- Texas releases election audit results for 2021-22 ahead of House hearing.- Keller ISD requires teachers to use pronouns matching sex on student birth certificates.- Texas sues Biden Administration to block ‘parole In place’ scheme.
2024-08-2605 minTexas Minute8.2.2024: Bad week in court for Biden/Harris.Court Rules Biden/Harris Admin Must Build Border Wall…NY Judge Rules For Texas Against NYC Mayor…Biden/Harris Admin Pulls Plug on Offshore Wind Project…Parents Beware: Sex-Ed Is Now ‘Opt Out’…Pro-Trump Students Win as Keller ISD Backs Down…
2024-08-0205 minTexas Minute6.24.2024: Texans aren’t confident in the grid.Majority of Texans Say an Electrical Grid Failure Could Come This Summer…Dan Patrick’s Sunset Commission Appointees Set to Scrutinize State Agencies…Keller ISD Rejects Biden’s ‘Extreme’ Title IX Rewrite…Border Patrol Reports Encounters with Illegal Aliens Dropped Last Month…
2024-06-2405 min
School Safety TodaySupporting Staff WellbeingIn today’s episode of School Safety Today by Raptor Technologies, join host Dr. Amy Grosso as she sits down with Shannon Jenkins, M.Ed., Coordinator of Mental Health at Thompson School District in Loveland, Colorado. Together, they delve into the crucial topic of supporting staff wellbeing within educational settings. KEY POINTS: - Distinction between self-care and wellbeing - Importance of leadership fostering a culture of staff wellbeing - The connection of staff wellbeing and school safety Guest Shannon Jenkins, M.Ed. is the Coordinator of Mental Health at Th...
2024-05-1446 min
Presbyterian and Reformed TexasEducation should be contextualized with Kyle OliphintKyle Oliphint (WTS '99) joins this Presbyterian and Reformed Texas episode. Kyle is the Senior Pastor at Grace Community Presbyterian Church Fort Worth, about 15 miles north of downtown Fort Worth. Kyle shares the story of Grace Community and his own story of coming to Christ. We also spend some time talking about education choices for our children. Should we as Christians home school our kids or send them to private schools? Can Christians send their kids to public schools? Is there a one-size-fits-all answer?Kyle and Eric are married to public school teachers and each sent their child...
2024-02-2055 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkITI: Meeting KISD's New SuperintendentIn this episode of Keller ISD's "In The Interim" podcast, Keller ISD's new Superintendent, Dr. Tracy Johnson, introduces herself to the KISD community and talks about her hope for the future of the District.
Join the Keller ISD Communications Department's Nicole McCollum and Bryce Nieman as they visit with Dr. Johnson and learn more about her passion for serving students' needs and how KISD leaders are working to maintain exceptional learning experiences in the face of current budget challenges. (Please note, this interview was recorded prior to the District's decision to retain the current, modified block schedule...
2024-02-1430 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkITI: Wealth of OpportunitiesIn this episode of Keller ISD's "In The Interim" podcast, Director of Fine Arts Kim Blann and Director of Athletics Eric Persyn discuss their passion for providing students with opportunities to build community within their schools. We also get to hear from Fossil Ridge High School sophomore Carson Grounds who is taking advantage of every opportunity he has in high school – playing varsity football, varsity baseball, and marching in the Panther Regiment, all while taking Honors and AP courses.
Join the Keller ISD Communications Department's Nicole McCollum and Bryce Nieman as they visit with th...
2023-12-1253 min
Afternoons with SonnyGood, Good News: Making The Most Out Of A Lifelong FearKeller ISD Teacher Amy Hall is a lifelong Texas Rangers fan who got hit in the head by a home run ball during Game 6 of the American League Championship Series in Houston on Sunday. Turns out, Amy actually had a lifelong fear of being hit by a baseball.Way to take one for the team, Amy! And GO RANGERS!
2023-10-2701 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkITI: Imperfect Budget Storm & Legislative AdvocacyIn the first edition of Keller ISD's "In The Interim" podcast, our panel talks about the District's current budget situation, Texas public school funding, and how KISD stakeholders can reach out and let elected officials know how important their schools are to them.
Keller ISD Communications Department's Nicole McCollum and Bryce Nieman are joined by KISD CFO Scott Wrehe, KISD General Counsel Amanda Bigbee, and Keller Council of PTAs Advocacy Chair Cherie Moeller for this pivotal conversation.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook.com/KellerISD, an...
2023-10-1833 min
How To Teach Music with Jessica GrantPreparing for Success: Clint Hardy's Back-to-School StrategiesClint Hardy, Middle School Choral Director in Keller, TX, is here to share several great ideas for teaching expectations and sharing information, activities to help you learn about your students, helping students get to know each other, and teaching us a fun music game involving rhythms. These are fabulous ideas to use at the start of the year or integrate at other times as well. Instagram - @choirwithclint Twitter - @tsms.choirs Podcast - The Choir Chronicles Facebook Group: The Choir Chronicles Teachers Pay Teachers - Choir with Clint...
2023-08-2235 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One Finale: Career Devoted to Helping OthersKeller ISD recently bid farewell to retiring Superintendent Dr. Rick Westfall, who not only led the District for the past six years, but has also been the host of the Westfall One-on-One podcast. Join us for one last conversation with the Superintendent, where we put him the hot seat and learn more about his career and his passion for supporting public education.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook.com/KellerISD, and connect with Dr. Westfall at @DrRDubKellerISD on Twitter! You can also find archived episodes at www.KellerIS...
2023-07-1930 min
The Right IdeaConservative Values Rule the Polls, Keller ISD Fights the Woke & SBOE Approves New ChartersBrian and Derek discuss the people, policy, and politics that drive Texas, including: a recap of the first and preview of this year’s second Special Session, a look into new polling that confirms conservative priorities, the ISD fight against the Woke Agenda, DeSantis’ new Border Plan and a big shift on approving new public school charters.
2023-06-3057 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Passion for Prioritizing EducationJust like Keller ISD students, Keller ISD teachers and staff come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences that impact how they support students and shape the lens through which they recognize opportunities for student growth. In this episode of Westfall One-on-One, KISD Superintendent Dr. Rick Westfall chats with Eva Gutierrez, Bilingual Academic Specialist at Caprock Elementary, who shares her story of perseverance and commitment to education in the face of some extremely challenging circumstances, and how her own experience has prepared her to be a resource for the students with whom she supports.
Be sure to...
2023-04-2134 min
The Drop SpotTill Next Year | The Drop Spot | Ep. 11On the final episode of 2022, The cast has fun with the Meg vs. Tory case, & BG coming home. Kyrie new shoe partnerships, California plans for reparations, & Keller ISD protection methods.
Tune in for a GREAT show.
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2023-04-1654 min
Y'all-iticsNonbinary frogs, a fed-up mom and the effort to make school boards boring again Y’all-itics: April 9, 202Laney Hawes, a fed-up mother with children in Keller ISD, has a simple wish: make school board meetings boring again. Next month, voters can select who represents them on city councils and school boards. Most Texans don’t bother with municipal elections. Republicans figured that out and have won majorities on at least four North Texas school boards, including Keller ISD. Conservatives are now capitalizing on their wins, by reviewing and removing some books from school libraries, along with other policy changes. The popular children’s book series “Dog Man and Cat Kid” has even been pulled from some shelves...
2023-04-0955 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Creating a Sense of CommunityKeller ISD is one unified educational community, but the District's four feeder patterns provide opportunities for students, families, and staff to unite on an even more local level and rally under their respective high school banners. In this episode of Westfall One-one-One, KISD Superintendent Dr. Rick Westfall chats with Charger feeder pattern parent Katie Kilcoyne who has utilized her position as an elementary school parent and wife of a high school football coach to make connections across school levels and throughout the Central High community.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter an...
2023-02-2327 min
The DFW BreakdownEducation in DFW: Keller ISD approves firearms for teachers & Frisco ISD plans for growthIn this education-focused episode, reporter Mark Fadden brings an update from Keller ISD, which recently approved a "guardian program," allowing teachers and staff to bring firearms to campus in an effort to shore up school security. Plus, editor Miranda Jaimes discusses how Frisco ISD has adjusted to constant growth in recent years with regular rezoning efforts.
The DFW Breakdown is a production of Community Impact. This episode was produced by Olivia Aldridge with assistance from Summer El-Shahawy and editing by Marie Leonard.
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2022-12-1617 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Connecting Students' Interests to LearningKeller ISD values the exploration and the pursuit of one’s passion that leads to personal growth. Educators in the District are constantly finding ways to connect students' interests and hobbies to learning opportunities. In this episode of Westfall One-on-One, KISD Superintendent Dr. Rick Westfall sits down with Vista Ridge Middle School 8th grader Emmanuel Tuffour who has taken his passion for sports and turned it into his own podcast with the help of his teacher, providing him invaluable experience as he explores future career paths.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitt...
2022-11-2230 min
The Matt Long Show11/16 - Success Story and more Promises!Keller ISD - CONGRATS! - Declares they will NOT teach "gender fluidity"!
PLUS - Did Gov Abbott ACTUALLY declare an invasion? Don't be surprised by the answer.
2022-11-1648 min
Texas Wants to KnowHow did public schools get tangled up in partisan politics?From taking books off library shelves to private school vouchers, issues surrounding public schools have taken a place near the center of the debate leading up to the 2022 midterms. And with Election Day just days away, we examine those two topics through the prism of two Texas school districts. In Keller ISD, parents are divided over 41 books that have been removed -- a second time -- for further review. Two district parents explain their views and why they think northeast Tarrant County has become ground zero for the nexus of education and politics. Then, we...
2022-11-0322 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Getting Support from GeniusesKeller ISD’s Genius Team is a group of students who provide technology on-boarding and device support for District teachers and staff. In this episode of One-on-One, Dr. Westfall visits with Genius Team Member and Keller High junior Hannah Edgar who talks about the program and the lessons she’s taken away from her experience so far.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook.com/KellerISD, and connect with Dr. Westfall at @DrRDubKellerISD on Twitter!
2022-10-1826 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Commitment to CommunityKeller ISD is blessed with many former students who recognize how special the District is and return to teach and work here. Whitley Road Elementary School Principal Melissa Finstad is one such student. After attending KISD K-12 – including five years at WRES as a student – Finstad is now the principal at the school and an involved member of the school's community. In the first episode of our 2022-23 season, Dr. Westfall sits down with her to learn more about her journey and the importance of being invested in local school communities.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on so...
2022-09-1622 min
Fort Worth Freedom ReviewEpisode 48: Socialism Conference 2022Episode 48: Socialism Conference 2022 Hello Fort Worth and welcome to another episode of the Fort Worth Freedom Review.We are a show about local politics that aims to get more people engaged in local issues. My name is Anthony Sosa. I’m here today to discuss the 2022 Socialism Conference in Chicago and some of the themes and ideas that were discussed at the conference. We will be back next time with electoral info for the candidates in 2020.All of the resources used will be provided below in the sho...
2022-09-131h 13
The Church GuysCollege Football KickoffIt is that time of year that we all know and love. College football is upon on us. We take an in depth look at the newly released top 25 AP poll, as well as the schedule and give our picks in key big games for the next two weeks. We talk a lot about the University of Texas and Texas A&M football and give our opinions how we believe they will do in the upcoming season. A discussion on how book review program in Keller ISD and a Christian outlook and what that might look like.
2022-09-0541 min
The Church GuysCollege Football KickoffIt is that time of year that we all know and love. College football is upon on us. We take an in depth look at the newly released top 25 AP poll, as well as the schedule and give our picks in key big games for the next two weeks. We talk a lot about the University of Texas and Texas A&M football and give our opinions how we believe they will do in the upcoming season. A discussion on how book review program in Keller ISD and a Christian outlook and what that might look like.
2022-09-0541 min
Punching BackEpisode 2: "The Bible is a Discriminatory Book"On this episode of the Punching Back podcast, we are going to tackle the lie that the Bible is a discriminatory book.
This lie first came to my attention due to an article that was written in the Dallas Morning News about Keller ISD temporarily removing the Bible from its library shelves while it reviewed it for inappropriate content. (That story can be found here: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/education/2022/08/16/texas-school-staff-told-to-pull-bible-anne-frank-adaptation-from-libraries/) But is the Bible discriminatory? Or is the Bible the most anti discriminatory book ever written? We will tackle all of that...
2022-09-0209 min
The Jews Are Tired83. Banning Anne Frank (with Laney Hawes)This week: The right-wing Christian movement to ban some books from libraries is growing, with one school district in Texas pulling all versions of The Bible and the graphic novel version of The Diary of Anne Frank. So I talk with Laney Hawes, a parent at that school district, about how that movement is affecting her district.Homeland: Ten Stories, One Israel: https://jewishunpacked.com/introducing-homeland-ten-stories-one-israel/Say hello! Lev@tcjewfolk.comhttps://jewfolk-inc.creator-spring.com/https://tcjewfolk.com/donate/To help Ukraine: https://tcjewfolk.com/resources-to-help-ukraine/Laney's tweet...
2022-08-2942 min
Y'all-iticsTwo Voices You Haven't Heard In The Book DebateY'all-itics: Tuesday, August 23rdThe Jasons don’t often do sequels, but Whitely got a call that two elected officials wanted to give their first-ever news interviews and Y’all-itics responded. In this episode, for the first time, top school board members at Keller ISD and Grapevine Colleyville ISD take questions from a journalist. GCISD Vice President Shannon Braun and KISD President Dr. Charles Randklev discuss the new policies that conservatives majorities on each board just passed this week. They answer why their boards changed the way library books are selected and revised how teachers talk about race...
2022-08-2453 minY'all-iticsFirst Anne Frank. Then the Bible. Are any books safe in Texas school libraries?Y’all-itics: August 21, 2022 41 library books have come off the shelves inside one school district in North Texas. Why? Parents challenged why their children should be exposed to them. Among the titles are “Anne Frank’s Diary: The Graphic Adaptation” and – wait for it – the Bible. Public school libraries are now the frontlines in the ongoing culture wars. In this episode of Y’all-itics, a fired up Keller ISD mom joins the Jasons with a strong warning for parents in other school districts about what’s coming. Plus, state Rep. Matt Krause takes their call as well. The Fort Worth Rep...
2022-08-2253 minHow To Teach Music with Jessica GrantMiddle School Choir with Jodi Coke*JOIN IN THE FUN!* The Confident Music Educator Course is opening for Cohort Two on September 1, 2022! Danielle Larrick and I created this course with upper elementary and middle school general music teachers in mind. The course includes nine robust modules that help you earn strategies for working with older students, lesson planning, assessment, communication, technology and more. You'll receive a wealth of information through video tutorials and conversations, a guided journal specifically made for the course, Google drive materials, and a private Facebook group for our community. The cost is $125 and doors open on...
2022-08-1642 min
The Orchestra Teacher Podcast39. Conversation with Creston Herron from Klein ISD, Klein, TexasCreston Herron is the current Director of Fine Arts for the Klein Independent School District and the Conductor of Rice University’s Campanile Orchestra. He is the former Director of Orchestras at Klein High School and the former Director of Strings for the Yes Prep Public Schools.
Mr. Herron’s many engagements as a guest conductor include work with Regional and All State ensembles in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee and throughout Texas. He has also served on the summer faculty of the AFA Summer Music Festival, Stephen F. Austin University Summer Musi...
2022-07-3153 min
ADInsider Podcast12 Takeaways from the 51st Texas HS Athletic Directors State ConferenceIn this AD Insider | Thursday 30 episode, we take you to Round Rock, TX for the 51st Annual Texas High School Athletic Directors Association (THSADA) State Conference to share our 12 takeaways from conference workshop sessions and exclusive AD Insider interviews. The range of topics covered includes:Superintendent Opinion: Key Characteristics of an Effective Athletic Administrator. Name, Image, and Likeness: What the Top-Rated HS Athletes Are Making. Placating Parents: How to Diffuse Most Situations. Evaluating Coaches: 8 Performance Metrics of a Great Program. Title IX: How to Make Everyone Compliant.
2022-06-3029 min
Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Caring for Campuses Over the Summer... and BeyondEver wonder what work is happening behind the scenes in a school district during the summer? Dr. Westfall sat down with LePaula Smith this month to share a little bit more information about that! Smith is Keller ISD's Director of Operations and Distribution, and she and her team work year-round to ensure our campuses are equipped and ready to provide a safe, healthy, and clean environment for our students and staff.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook.com/KellerISD, and connect with Dr. Westfall at @DrRDubKellerISD on Tw...
2022-06-2721 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Paving the Way to Bright FuturesIsha Patel, a graduating senior from Fossil Ridge High School, talks to Superintendent Dr. Westfall about her journey through high school and planning for college, with the help of a recently added resource in Keller ISD – the College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) Go Center. Beginning in the fall of 2020, CCMR Coaches have provided a vital point of contact for students, as they have been a resource to whom students can speak directly and ask specific questions about college applications, essays, and scholarships or other financial aid, whether the student is a looking to attend a two or four-year col...
2022-05-2720 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: I Love My JobKeller ISD Human Resources Coordinator Jennifer Love joins Superintendent Dr. Westfall to share the hard work being done, both behind the scenes and out in the public, to recruit and retain intentionally exceptional employees. They'll dive into the challenges we face, how we are responding, and what the next steps should be for anyone listening who might be interested in joining the Keller ISD family.
Come work for the District and make a difference in the KISD community – https://www.kellerisd.net/careers.
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and I...
2022-05-0432 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: The Ins and Outs of School FundingDr. Westfall chats with CFO Scott Wrehe about school finance – how it's structured, where your tax dollars go and how they are spent, the challenges school districts face, and how KISD makes the most fiscally responsible decisions possible while maintaining transparency. This is a complicated topic that you won't want to miss learning more about!
Be sure to follow Keller ISD on social media – @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook.com/KellerISD, and connect with Dr. Westfall at @DrRDubKellerISD on Twitter!
2022-03-2332 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Celebrating How We All ShineDr. Westfall and Special Education Coordinator Kierra Edgar talk about the importance of relationships, including everyone, and celebrating how every person – each student and staff member – shines to create an intentionally exceptional school district and community.
2022-02-1423 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Community Impact of CTE ProgramsDr. Westfall speaks with Director of Career and Technical Education Dr. Robert Wright in celebration of CTE Month to explain more about everything you ever wanted to know about CTE and more, the impact these programs have on our students' futures, and how our community can become more involved and benefit from this unique partnership.
2022-01-2834 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Support Beyond the ClassroomAs we are in the height of "giving season," Dr. Westfall welcomed Director of State and Federal Programs Leigh Cook to share with our community more about how we discover and meet the needs of our students, and how the giving opportunities in our District are available and a necessity year round.
2021-12-0830 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Leaving Positive FootprintsDr. Westfall sits down with Fossil Hill Middle School Instructional Support Teacher Shaunna Hanby to take a stroll down memory lane. Hanby has been in the District for 19 years, serving almost her entire tenure at FHMS. She shares about how she has had the opportunity to educate children from all over the world; bond with colleagues through periods of rapid growth, and now, through physical updates and additions to the school; and connect with former students who have now returned to FHMS as fellow educators. She is one of many who are #ThankfulinKISD and Keller ISD invites you to...
2021-11-1720 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Student InfluencersDr. Westfall speaks to special guest – Director of Customer Experience for Hillwood Development Company – Amanda Migura about an exciting new opportunity our Keller ISD students have this year, serving as Student Influencers for the group. Take a listen as they discuss what this selection process looked like, what our students are gaining out of the experience, and the positive impression they have made on our business community.
Be sure to stay connected to Keller ISD by following us at @KellerISD on Twitter and Instagram and like us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/KellerISD.
2021-10-1130 min
The Invited PodcastEpisode 13 - "God's Work" with Joe CopelandMeet Joe Copeland, the current Area Director of Student Services for Keller ISD. Joe has held several roles over his 20 years in education and in this episode he speaks to us about finding his purpose, career transitions and how access to resources is the key to providing a quality education for all, regardless of their background. In this conversation Joe breaks down what he has done to continue to leave his mark on future generations and how we can all play a part to impact the future leaders of the world.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest w...
2021-09-2456 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Dreaming Big for Keller ISD StudentsDr. Westfall is joined by Heritage Elementary School teacher Meagan McDaniel, who – along with some fellow teachers in Keller ISD's LADDER cohort – has reimagined what the elementary school experience could be like, and now they have been given the opportunity to implement their vision at HES.
2021-09-1526 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: A New Season, New Format, New StaffThe Keller ISD podcast, "Westfall One-on-One," is entering its third season, and we've incorporated new hosts to introduce each conversation! This month, we're excited to hear from Valerie Minor about the incredible variety of professional development and mentoring services available to our staff as we prepare for a wonderful year ahead.
2021-08-1619 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Power in New BeginningsChief Human Resources Officer Tracy Johnson and Dr. Westfall dive into the busy summer season of hiring in a school district, how the process works, the challenges of staffing a large district, and what makes Keller ISD a great place to work.
2021-06-2427 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: A Lasting ImpactDr. Westfall talks to Indian Springs Middle School Principal Sandy Troudt, as she prepares for retirement after a 43-year career in education. (WOW!) She shared memories, lessons learned, and advice. Congratulations to Sandy, and all of the retirees this year. We are so thankful for your service to our students, staff, and community.
2021-05-1428 min
Welcome to the RevolutionEpisode 52 Unified Champion Schools - Lonestar ElementaryJoin us this week as we attend the Lonestar Elementary National Banner Presentation live from Keller ISD Stadium!! Listen to all the speeches from the event and the impact the UCS Program has had on this Campus and within Keller ISD. The North Region Host Allen PD Officer Chance Graves and SOTX Athlete Ethan Whitt sit down with the Who's Who of Keller ISD and Special Olympics Texas!! Sit back and enjoy, its a long one!!
2021-04-211h 56Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Personalized Learning Through iChooseWhile virtual learning took on a new meaning in 2020, Keller ISD has been embarking on this journey for a few years through the iChoose program – designed to address the needs of students by providing opportunities for students to complete foundation courses in CTE pathways, accelerate completion of language acquisition courses, pursue their interests during the school day, and prepare them for success in online coursework as they continue their education past high school. Hear iChoose student Skyler Standridge speak with Dr. Westfall about the opportunities this program has afforded him and check out more information about iChoose at www.ke...
2021-03-2421 min
School PR Happy HourEpisode 211 - Expanding Your Communications Team With Campus RepsNicole Lyons from Keller ISD (TX) joins Justin from the lobby of the hotel at the TSPRA 2021 Conference in Denton, Texas to discuss Keller ISD's amazing Campus PR Reps Program. These PR Reps assist the district communications team in telling the story of Keller ISD. Enjoy!
2021-03-0123 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Growing Opportunities Through Collegiate AcademyNearly a year ago, Keller ISD announced its exciting plan to open a Collegiate Academy in the fall of 2021. Shortly after that, the District was impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic and all the challenges it presented. Still, we are proud to say that we are still on track and just accepted our first students into the Keller Collegiate Academy for the 2021-22 school year! Listen as Keller Collegiate Academy Principal Tracy Arsenault explains the exciting new opportunities our students will have at this campus.
2021-02-0219 min
The New Minds PodcastThe Urgency of Social & Emotional Learning | The New Minds Podcast: Episode 002Sarah Sampson was the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Facilitator for Keller ISD in Texas, where she led the implementation of SEL and mindfulness-based activities for over 34,000 students district-wide. Among her many new projects is work with Present Moment Labs, who have developed an SEL learning system for teachers, parents, and schools. In this rich and heartfelt conversation, we talk about the essence and urgency of SEL and its foundation of mindfulness, including the 5 domains of SEL and the impact it has on the brain and nervous system. Sarah even guides us through 3 essential SEL practices using the cards de...
2020-12-031h 04Keller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Gratefulness Through Challenging TimesDr. Westfall had a special conversation with Keller High School and Keller Center for Advanced Learning student Zachary Lehmann about the things he is grateful for and the positives he has seen come out of the challenging times we continue to face.
2020-11-2010 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: New Environments, Strong ConnectionsCoordinator of Digital Curriculum & Remote Learning Dawn Bailey chats with Dr. Westfall about remote instruction – what we've learned, how we're improving, and where we're going. Listen to hear more about resources available to students, parents, and teachers; inspiring examples of how teachers are going above and beyond; and how education has evolved through these unexpected hurdles.
2020-10-2126 minKeller ISD Podcast NetworkWestfall One-on-One: Sharing is CaringBette Perot 2nd grade teacher Karen Grantham opens up to Dr. Westfall about how she has worked through some of the challenges brought on by 2020, and shares how her experiences of caring for others and being on the receiving end of kindness has fueled her to look forward to a great school year.
2020-09-2815 min
Mastering Social Media for SchoolsStorytelling through Podcasts with Justin DearingStorytelling takes many forms. Podcasts might be the next medium for your school to consider! IN THIS EPISODE, JUSTIN DIVES INTOThe secret behind adding over 2,500 Instagram followers to the school’s account in one yearThe process of including student interns in communications effortsWhy your district should consider starting a podcastWhat type of podcast format might work the best for your schoolSPECIAL GUESTJustin DearingA...
2020-06-1543 min