Shows
Ankeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 334
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews head coach Brandt Carlson and senior guard Rio Aguirre of the Ankeny boys’ basketball team about the Hawks’ recent 4-1 stretch and looks ahead to the last few weeks of the regular season.
2026-02-0521 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 334
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews head coach Brandt Carlson and senior guard Rio Aguirre of the Ankeny boys’ basketball team about the Hawks’ recent 4-1 stretch and looks ahead to the last few weeks of the regular season.
2026-02-0521 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 333
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews former Ankeny basketball standout Conor Riordan about his first season as the head men’s basketball coach at Central College.
2026-01-3117 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 333
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews former Ankeny basketball standout Conor Riordan about his first season as the head men’s basketball coach at Central College.
2026-01-3117 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 332
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the boys’ wrestling season with coach Jack Wignall and senior Ben Walsh of Ankeny and coach Jay Groth and senior Dirk Winkel of Ankeny Centennial. Realtor Jennifer Aguirre also stops by for a visit.
2026-01-2245 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 332
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the boys’ wrestling season with coach Jack Wignall and senior Ben Walsh of Ankeny and coach Jay Groth and senior Dirk Winkel of Ankeny Centennial. Realtor Jennifer Aguirre also stops by for a visit.
2026-01-2245 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 331
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the Jag-Hawk basketball doubleheader with Rylyn Boeding of the Ankeny Centennial girls’ team and Jasani Campbell of the Ankeny boys’ squad. Chris Doubleday of the Doubleday Insurance Agency also stops by to discuss the state of Iowa State men’s basketball and football.
2026-01-1535 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 331
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the Jag-Hawk basketball doubleheader with Rylyn Boeding of the Ankeny Centennial girls’ team and Jasani Campbell of the Ankeny boys’ squad. Chris Doubleday of the Doubleday Insurance Agency also stops by to discuss the state of Iowa State men’s basketball and football.
2026-01-1535 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 330
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the girls’ wrestling season thus far with coach Dustin Roland and sophomore Karlie Kruse of Ankeny.
2026-01-0836 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 330
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the girls’ wrestling season thus far with coach Dustin Roland and sophomore Karlie Kruse of Ankeny.
2026-01-0836 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 329
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the boys’ basketball season thus far with coach Jay Nihart and sophomore guard Kade Clarkson of Ankeny Christian Academy and coach Matt Delger and sophomore guard Keaton Kasperbauer of Ankeny Centennial. Realtor Ronda Dix also makes an appearance.
2025-12-3134 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 329
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the boys’ basketball season thus far with coach Jay Nihart and sophomore guard Kade Clarkson of Ankeny Christian Academy and coach Matt Delger and sophomore guard Keaton Kasperbauer of Ankeny Centennial. Realtor Ronda Dix also makes an appearance.
2025-12-3134 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 328
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews former Indianola and Iowa pitcher Duncan Davitt about his ascension through minor league baseball, his prospects for making it to the big leagues with the Chicago White Sox in 2026, and his part-time job as a sports journalist for the Indianola Independent Advocate.
2025-12-1825 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 328
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm interviews former Indianola and Iowa pitcher Duncan Davitt about his ascension through minor league baseball, his prospects for making it to the big leagues with the Chicago White Sox in 2026, and his part-time job as a sports journalist for the Indianola Independent Advocate.
2025-12-1825 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 327
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the 3-0 start for the Ankeny boys’ basketball team and previews Friday’s showdown against Waukee with coach Brandt Carlson and senior center Max Allison.
2025-12-1117 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 327
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down the 3-0 start for the Ankeny boys’ basketball team and previews Friday’s showdown against Waukee with coach Brandt Carlson and senior center Max Allison.
2025-12-1117 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 326
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down Tuesday’s season-opening loss at Waukee Northwest and previews Friday’s showdown against crosstown rival Ankeny with new head coach Chris Harken and junior guard Lizzie Beam of the Ankeny Centennial girls’ basketball team. Former Centennial boys’ basketball coach Bob Fontana also appears to discuss a special event at the Jag-Hawk doubleheader.
2025-12-0422 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 326
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm breaks down Tuesday’s season-opening loss at Waukee Northwest and previews Friday’s showdown against crosstown rival Ankeny with new head coach Chris Harken and junior guard Lizzie Beam of the Ankeny Centennial girls’ basketball team. Former Centennial boys’ basketball coach Bob Fontana also appears to discuss a special event at the Jag-Hawk doubleheader.
2025-12-0422 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 325
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm previews the upcoming season with coach Nate Tobey and senior guards Jayla Williams and Ainsley Kiene of the Ankeny girls’ basketball team.
2025-11-1922 minAnkeny FanaticAnkeny Fanatic Podcast: Episode 325
In the latest edition of the Ankeny Fanatic weekly podcast sponsored by Legacy Realty of Iowa and Revive Dermatology Clinic and Spa, publisher Dan Holm previews the upcoming season with coach Nate Tobey and senior guards Jayla Williams and Ainsley Kiene of the Ankeny girls’ basketball team.
2025-11-1922 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Ankeny Schools' Reading RevolutionA new way of teaching. A renewed love for reading. A revolution in how students learn. Listen in as the Literacy Leadership team explains evidence-based "The Science of Reading", the “why” behind Ankeny’s Reading Revolution, and what it means for students in every classroom.
2025-11-1338 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... G.O. Bond- You Have Questions!Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt has a Q&A session with Dr. Darin Haack, Samantha Aukes, and Eric Brown. They tackle questions sent in by community members about the $130 million G.O. Bond from why the funds won't be used to increase teacher salaries, to how passing the bond directly impacts future grade reconfiguration. Real questions—and real answers—about the implications of what passing/not passing the bond means for Ankeny’s schools.
2025-09-1722 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Student Voice SymposiumAnkeny Schools is committed to building the next generation of leaders. Today's guests, students Josalie Buban, Quincee Hansen, Cherop Kipruto, Zina Ishibwammi, and Kayci Piva, with Northview Middle School team member Renee Potts, share their experience at the Student Voice Symposium, where they and 50 other Ankeny high school and middle school students built on their advocacy, civic engagement, and other leadership skills at an event hosted by the West Des Moines Community School District.
2025-06-1020 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About PreK, TK, Kindergarten & Building a FoundationPreschool, Transitional Kindergarten, and kindergarten are the topics in this episode. Joining Dr. Pruitt are Sheila Schmidt, Principal of Terrace Learning Center Preschool; Tara Owen, Executive Director of Elementary Education for Ankeny Schools; and Kelli Olson Babcock, a dedicated transitional kindergarten teacher in the Ankeny School District as they answer the questions they get from parents the most and provide valuable information about each of the programs and the difference between them.
2025-03-2144 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About It... From Student to StaffIf you are or know someone preparing for their first job in education, you can't afford to miss this podcast! Kevin Biggs - Principal, Southview Middle School, Kristin Barber - Principal, Northeast Elementary School, and Justin Mohr - Asst. Director Human Resources are Ankeny Schools administrators actively involved in the hiring process and sharing valuable insights with host Dr. Erick Pruitt about the pitfalls to avoid and best practices to master in the race to get that first teaching, school counseling, or education social worker job.
2025-02-0644 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The It's Been SAId Podcast"... And now for something completely different." It's been SAId is a podcast produced by the School Administrators of Iowa (SAI). We're republishing their episode with Ankeny's Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Darin Haack. He shares his experience with SAI's Individualized Leadership Coaching program. Tune in to hear how Ankeny Schools is leading by example - proving that learning is a lifelong journey.
2025-01-3027 min
We Are AnkenyLearning Series: Pt. 2 Restorative Practice In ActionTune in to hear host, Ken Morris, Jr., Ankeny Schools' Chief Diversity Officer with guests Abby Canfield - Southeast Elementary Social Worker, Kelsey Leaper - Prairie Trail Elementary Counselor, Micaela Tuttle - Assistant Principal at Southeast Elementary, as they explore the use of restorative practice as a way to build stronger connections, promote understanding and encourage collaboration in their building communities.Restorative practice focuses on open communication and working together. From building stronger relationships to resolving conflicts through responsive circle strategies we are helping to create a culture of belonging and respect.
2025-01-1443 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Voices of Learning: Connecting Through LanguageDr. Pruitt is celebrating multilingualism and the journey of our Ankeny students breaking through language barriers and swinging doors to fluency wide open! Ankeny Teachers Lissa Fulkerson, Marcella Mallet, and Brooke Fry have a lot to say about their students and the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Program. Despite the added cultural, language, social, and even dietary challenges they face while continuing their academic studies, these students are highly motivated and thriving. Check out our latest podcast on www.AnkenySchools.org or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!
2024-12-3032 min
We Are AnkenyLearning Series: How Leader In Me is Shaping ACSD Student LeadershipIn this episode, Dr. Amy Dittmar, ACSD Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, sits down with Amy Ingersoll & Kayla Feld, Lighthouse Coordinators at Prairie Trail and Heritage Elementary, and Ben Muller, Principal of Prairie Trail Elementary.They’re talking all about Leader in Me—a powerful program teaching students leadership, accountability, and confidence—and celebrating the incredible accomplishment of several Ankeny schools achieving Lighthouse School certification! Join the conversation and learn how this program shapes Ankeny's future leaders.
2024-12-1730 min
We Are AnkenyLearning Series: Nourishing Schools Part 2When schools, nonprofits like the Food Bank of Iowa, students, and dedicated staff come together, real change happens. Ankeny Schools Community Engagement Specialist, Madisen Gaskin hosts a roundtable discussion with Michelle Book, CEO & President of Food Bank of Iowa, Scott Litchfield the Director of Nutrition Services for Ankeny Schools, and Leah Clark Ankeny Northview Middle School Social Worker to discuss food insecurity by-the-numbers in our community.
2024-11-1323 min
We Are AnkenyStudent Takeover: Maxx Tyler & Alli Macke Have Questions about the Innovative HubAnkeny HS seniors Maxx Tyler and Alli Macke, student interns at Casey's Corporate offices, want to know how their Orbis Program experience is influencing plans for the new Innovative Hub building. Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt and Samantha Aukes, Chief of Communications for Ankeny Schools are answering ALL of their questions. Tune in!
2024-10-3139 min
The Ridge – Weekly MessageSing to the LordPsalm 22 says quite a bit about sung worship and God’s desire for it. Spoiler: It’s much more than perfect pitch and flawless harmony, resonance or good breath support.
Message by Will Herron
Scripture referenced: Psalm 33
Follow our Podcast to get full messages and beyond the sermon delivered right to your favorite podcast app.
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theridge-ankeny-weekly
2024-10-1428 min
We Are AnkenyLearning Series: Nourishing Students IntroductionMadisen Gaskin, Community Engagement Specialist for Ankeny Schools hosts Ankeny Schools staff, Leah Clark - Social Worker, Erin Van Dorin - Associate Principal BEYOND & Summit High School programs, and Shawn Beirman - Social Emotional Learning Specialist on this podcast to discuss what led to opening Ankeny's school-based food pantries in partnership with the Food Bank of Iowa.
2024-10-1126 min
The Ridge – Weekly MessageThe Harvest is ComingGalatians chapter six expands on Paul’s teaching about living in the Holy Spirit — how Christians who live in the Holy Spirit should use His power to love and serve and care for one another. Before Paul concludes the letter, he encourages those who walk in the Spirit not to give up and don’t grow tired of doing good because the harvest is coming.
Message by Mike Van Rees
Scripture referenced: Galatians 6:1–18
Subscribe to the Podcast to get full messages and beyond the sermon delivered right to your favorite podcast app. https://podcaster...
2024-10-0731 min
We Are AnkenyStudent Takeover: Ella, CeCi & Lucy Want AnswersIt's another student takeover. 6th graders Ella, CeCi, and Lucy have questions for Dr. Pruitt and they want answers. Testing their investigative reporter skills, these ladies don't shy away from the hard-hitting questions from "Do you decide if there's a snow day?" to "What's it like being a girl dad?". Tune in to a special student takeover of We Are Ankeny.
2024-09-2732 min
We Are AnkenyLearning Series... Introduction to Restorative PracticesThis is the first of a special topic series we're introducing this season. The topic is Restorative Practice and your host is Shawn Beirman, Social Emotional Specialist for Ankeny Schools. In this episode, Shawn introduces you to restorative practices and three theories that ACSD focuses on in educating administrators and teachers including Social Emotional Window, Fair Process Act, and Affects.
2024-09-1019 min
We Are AnkenyCommunity Engagement is At Your ServiceNot many people know what a Community Engagement department does, but Madisen Gaskin, Community Engagement Coordinator for Ankeny Schools, and her team have big plans to change that. Madisen is at the mic with Dr. Pruitt talking about how volunteers contribute to schools and the district overall, developing new community education classes and how the term intergenerational is integral to the Community Engagement purpose and goals.
2024-08-3020 min
Ankeny Free ChurchWhy I Believe: "Creation" | Pastor J.D. AbellWhy I Believe: "Creation" | JD Abell | Ankeny Free Churchhttps://www.ankenyfree.church
2024-08-2042 min
Ankeny Free ChurchWhy I Believe: "The Afterlife" | Pastor J.D. AbellWhy I Believe: The Afterlife | Pastor J.D. Abell | Ankeny Free Churchhttps://www.ankenyfree.church
2024-08-1950 min
We Are AnkenyNew to District Teachers Talk about the Ankeny ExperienceTheir experience is the Ankeny Experience! Teachers new to the Ankeny District, Mariah Hoium at Prairie Trail Elementary, Nick Robinson at Centennial High School, and Mary Stewart at Southeast Elementary, share their hopes, expectations, and plans for the 24-25 school year with superintendent Dr. Eric Pruitt on the We Are Ankeny podcast. Listen Here or find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or Audible.
2024-08-1731 min
We Are AnkenyStudent Takeover: Miles & Friends Take on 8th & 9th GradeThe second Student Takeover of Season 4 features host Miles, Xavier, Maddie, and Lou, as they talk about moving from buildings (7th to 8th grade) and becoming high school 9th graders. You can also listen to We Are Ankeny Podcasts on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, and Apple Podcast.
2024-08-0826 min
Ankeny Free ChurchWhy I Believe: "The Bible" | Pastor J.D. AbellWhy I Believe: The Bible | Pastor J.D. Abell | Ankeny Free Churchhttps://www.ankenyfree.church
2024-07-3143 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About It Student Takeover... Soundtrack of LifeAnkeny High seniors Charles Christensen and Griffen Nye turn the microphones on and interview ACSD Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Darin Haack. Music is the topic so sit back and join in on song recommendations, album critiques, and favorite confessions.
2024-07-0135 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About It Student Takeover... High School EntrepreneursIt's a podcast takeover by Ankeny Centennial graduated senior Mya Maronn. She's invited student entrepreneurs Logan Sobaski, Charli Brady, and Emma Bececk. Hear advice on pitfalls to avoid, pushing boundaries, and pursuing interests for the under-18 entrepreneur.
2024-06-2026 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... the ACSD Summer Food ProgramBurnt ends are on the menu today as the Ankeny Schools' Nutritional Services team launches the 2024 Summer Food Program. Director of Nutrition Services Scott Litchfield, Chef Joe Weitz, and Dietitian Susan Carlson have a lot to discuss and celebrate about this summer and plans for the 2024-25 school meal programs. For more information visit the Nutrition Services page on the AnkenySchools.org website.
2024-06-0632 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Student LeadershipStudent voices are crucial to a thriving academic community. This show introduces you to student school board representatives Megan Rembert and Kalyani Baht and Ankeny Centennial student council member Mya Maron. The next generation of leadership begins here, take a listen.
2024-03-2033 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Teacher's AcademyAnkeny Schools is preparing the next generation of public school teachers and administrators. Our Teacher's Academy is a concurrent course with Des Moines Area Community College's Foundations of Education where Ankeny students earn college credit and classroom experience. Students Anna Sash and Ingrid Dietrich give you an inside look at their experiences. Join Teacher Academy instructor Julie Blevins and Northeast Elementary 5th grade teacher and Teacher Academy mentor Jessie Purviance at the goal and future plans for the program.
2024-03-0820 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Core Skills, Soft Skills, and Mental HealthJoin guests Kayla Bell-Consolver the Director of the Counseling Center at Broadlawns Community Clinic at Drake University, Shawn Beirman the Social-Emotional Learning Specialist at Ankeny Schools, and Al Neppl, Director of Professional and Leadership Development at Ankeny Schools as they discuss the importance of soft skills like adaptability, empathy, and collaboration for students.
2024-01-1150 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Project-Based Learning in Ankeny SchoolsWe know students have different learning styles, so in this episode, we're shining a light on project-based learning (PBL). Our guests include Jason Clark, a teacher at Ankeny Centennial High School. He's adopted PBL as his method of teaching. Hannah Robertson is a Des Moines Area consultant on PBL and a recent instructor at Ankeny's summer teacher academy and Dr. Amy Dittmar, Assistant Superintendent of Ankeny Schools. She leads the planning team for Ankeny School's new Innovative Hub. You'll find this and many other Let's Talk about It topics on the We Are Ankeny podcast channel found at www...
2023-12-2737 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Opening Abbie Grove ElementaryOpening Fall 2024! Dr. Pruitt has the new Abbie Grove principal- Andrew Burg, Executive Director of Elementary Education- Tara Owen, and District K-5 Teacher Librarian- Corissa Thompson on to give you a peek at what it takes to open an elementary building in Ankeny.
2023-12-1240 min
We Are AnkenyLet's talk about... Renewal Vote for Physical Plant & Equipment LevyOn November 7, 2023, Ankeny residents will vote on the renewal of the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy. This renewal happens every 10 years, and the funds are used by Ankeny Community Schools to make building repairs, purchase new equipment, and increase security systems. Listen and learn about PPEL and it's relationship to the Ankeny Community through Ankeny Schools.
2023-10-0511 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Stepping into 6th GradePodcast Guests: Northeast Elementary 5th grade teacher Kristen Recher, Parkview Middle School Counselor Nate Tobey, and Parkview Principal Ben Huebsch. Ankeny 5th graders have a big transition in the fall when they move from an elementary building to a middle school building. Our guests today are here to let you know what conversations our 5th-grade teachers are having in the classroom and how the middle schools are preparing for their arrival.
2023-05-0934 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Superintendent's LifeWhat's it like being a school district superintendent? What challenges does education face in the next few years? Our guests answered these questions and more. Host and Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt asked Des Moines area colleagues Dr. Rosalie Daca from Urbandale Community School District, Dr. D.T. Magee from Norwalk Community School District, and Dr. Dirk Halupnik from Southeast Polk Community Schools to pull up a microphone and talk about what it's like to be a superintendent.
2023-05-0135 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Middle to High School TransitionsNew environments can mean excitement to one student, but anxiety to another. This podcast is "almost" everything you need to know about moving into 8th-grade and 10th-grade. Southview Middle School counselor Nicole Wee, Ankeny Centennial High School counselor Ashley Wilson, and Executive Director for Ankeny Secondary Schools Bev Kuehn have advice, reassurance, and encouragement for parents anticipating a building change next fall or in the near future.
2023-04-2437 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Filling. Up. Every. Learner. (FUEL)Fill The Fund is an annual event focused on supporting the 'Filling Up Every Learner' (F.U.E.L.) fund. Pull up a seat to the table with our guests, IMPACT Community Action Partnership CEO- Anne Bacon, Wiedenman Family Foundation President - Barb Wiedenman, and Scott Litchfield the Director of Nutrition Services for Ankeny Schools as they deep dive into the topics of food insecurity, ACSD's proactive program to support students, and how community advocacy continues to inspire us all.
2023-04-1736 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Ankeny HS's The Talon NewsAnkeny High School is producing the next generation of journalists. Award-winning news source, The Talon, is produced for and by students. Joining Dr. Pruitt to talk about what makes The Talon a great elective choice are editors Ava, Vivian, and Julien.
2023-04-1021 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Ankeny Area Historical SocietyExplore the history of Ankeny in this episode with Ankeny Area Historical Society co-Chairs Jois Thorson ODonnell, JoAnn Kocheiser Adamson, and intern Avan Albaugh. It's a trip down memory lane with a peek into current exhibits and summer events.
2023-04-0428 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Social Emotional LearningToday, we are discussing the concept and integration of Social and Emotional Learning in the classroom, also referred to as SEL. Join Ankeny Schools staff members Shawn Bierman, Social Emotional Learning Specialist; Jason Aker, Principal at Prairie Ridge Middle School and Whitney Longtin, Assistant Principal at Southeast Elementary School as they define social-emotional learning and what it looks like in their classrooms and throughout the district.
2023-03-2738 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Employee & Family Services' Student Assistance ProgramOur guest, Steve Arneson, is from Employee and Family Resources Center. He is a partner with Ankeny Schools for the Student Assistance Program available in our schools and to families. Health and especially mental health are topics that school districts find themselves talking about more and more. Ankeny Community School District believes the health of our students and their families affects their ability to excel in the classroom and we've partnered with EFR to provide resources in and outside of our school buildings.
2023-03-2119 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Student TeachingStudent teachers are the future of our Ankeny Schools. It's a critical phase in the development, and we are committed to providing a unique and rich experience to all placed in our district. It's our goal that every student teacher placed here, wants to stay here. Sit down with a former and current student teacher and hear about their time walking the halls and running classrooms in Ankeny. Guests: Hillary Thomae and Alex Kitterman.
2023-02-2719 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Junior Achievement of Central IowaJunior Achievement of Central Iowa is expanding their partnership with Ankeny Community Schools by adding the new 6th - 12th grade program, Financial Park©. This program, compliments the 5th grade program Biz Town©. Pull up a seat at the We Are Ankeny table with guests president of JA of Central Iowa, Ryan Osborn; JA Director of Education, Shannon Gerard; Ankeny Schools' Post-secondary Readiness Specialist, Amy Steenhoek; and your host, Ankeny Schools Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt.
2023-02-2030 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... School Budgets and Property TaxesToday's podcast guests are Randy Ripperger, Polk County Iowa's Property Assessor and Bryon Tack, Assistant Assessor. It doesn’t matter if you have children attending public school, if you own property in Polk County - click and turn up the volume. Jennifer Jamison, CFO for Ankeny Schools joins Dr. Erick Pruitt and our guests to add insight on how these taxes directly impact Ankeny Schools.
2023-02-0626 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Innovative Secondary SchoolsIf you could create an innovative secondary school any way you wanted, what would it be? Today's guests are on a panel reimagining the 6th through 12th-grade experience at Ankeny Schools (ACSD). JoinDr. Erick Pruitt as he hosts ACSD parent Amy Guidry, Vice President of Human Capital at Accumold Grace Swanson, and team facilitator Ankeny Schools' Chief Officer of Legal Affairs & Strategic Initiatives Jessie Dirks.
2023-01-3141 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About the... Mentors In Violence Prevention ProgramThe threat of school violence is everywhere, even in the Des Moines Metro and surrounding communities. The fear of violence can interfere with learning, friendships, and even how students envision and value their future. Mentors In Violence Prevention was introduced in Ankeny Schools this year to address what students are experiencing. Students pioneering the program speak to the community about the how they plan to make a difference.
2023-01-2445 min
The Salt Company / AnkenyConfronting Christianity | Can We Really Trust the Bible? | Matthew 7:24-27Salt Company Ankeny, Jan 19, 2023, speaker: Joe Nealis
2023-01-2045 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Secondary Math and Computer ScienceDr. Erick Pruitt invites Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum and Innovation back to the podcast to talk about the upcoming changes Ankeny Schools is making to the secondary math and computer science curriculum. The goal is to have kids understand they are all "math people" even if it looks different from one student to another. The changes for the 2023-24 academic school year to the Ankeny Schools math and computer science curriculum will provide a clear pathway for students with parent and counselor input - to navigate for successful post graduation plans.
2023-01-1624 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Teachers & MentorsLet's talk about teacher mentoring. Ankeny strives, and succeeds, as an innovator among school districts that surround the Des Moines Metro. The first suburb to expand to two high schools is now reinventing the traditional professional mentor structure for new and new-to-the-district teachers. District mentoring coaches and specialist Elise Jessen, Kim Haack, and Justin Herrick join Ankeny Schools Superintendent, Erick Pruitt to explain how this new strategy and approach will benefit students. As well as how Ankeny teachers are now supported, and the development mentors themselves are experiencing with the new program.
2023-01-0936 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... the City of AnkenyWe're welcoming David Jones, City of Ankeny's City Manager to our podcast. This episode explores the relationship between the district and the city from using school facilities to economic growth and plans. Join us and let's talk about the city of Ankeny.
2022-12-1218 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Robotics ProgramRobotics. Two teams with the same mission. To win. Our episode brings Hawk and Jag competitors to the table with a common passion. Competitive teams are growing at both high schools. Learn why you don't need to know programming, engineering, or construction to participate. These teens talk no holds barred about why they showed up to their first club meeting, and what brings them back each season. Joining these students is Dr. Pruitt and Ankeny High School's robotic team coach and AHS teacher Jennifer Poole.
2022-11-2835 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Community PartnershipsAnkeny schools values its community partnerships. This episode brings Ankeny School Foundation President, Kara Hogue, to the studio. Join us as Dr. Pruitt and Ms. Hogue are joined by Ankeny Schools Chief Officer-Jessica Dirks and Heidi Palkovic Community Engagement Manager - Heidi Palkovic as the discuss how community and public schools relationships continue to evolve, future plans and fundraising.
2022-11-2121 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Winter Weather, Delayed Starts, and ClosingsIowa winters can bring freezing rain, snow, sub-zero temperatures, and severe winds in a matter of hours. This episode will educate our Ankeny community on what goes into making a decision to keep schools open, delaying the starts, letting students out early, and when it's best just to stay closed. Ankeny Schools pulls back the curtain to show how and why inclement weather decisions are made. Join Dr. Pruitt, Samantha Aukes, Chief of Communications, and Dr. Darin Haack, assistant superintendent of schools, and Let's Talk About... the weather.
2022-11-1420 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Volunteers In Public SchoolsThis episode brings overdue attention to a great Ankeny Schools resource, our volunteers. Volunteering looks different throughout our district, from parents in the lunchroom, to community members reading in classrooms and high school students prepping materials for teachers. Jessica Dirks is the Chief of Legal Affairs and Chief of Strategic Initiatives, Heidi Palkovic is the Community Engagement Manager, and Denise Miller joins Dr. Erick Pruitt to introduce the "One-Million Minute" volunteer goal, provide a behind-the-scenes look at how volunteers help our district, and how the safety of students and staff remains a priority.
2022-11-1031 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Ankeny Activities & AthleticsActivities, clubs and sports Oh, My! Ankeny High School and Centennial High School started the year with new leadership in the Activities and Athletic (A.D.) offices. New Hawk Director, Adam McDonnell was the former A.D. at Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids. The Jaguars' new Director arrived from Valley High School. There's a lot to talk about. For the first time since bowling in 2006 the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union is introducing a new sanctioned sport in Iowa - girls' wrestling. The directors also talked about the benefits of starting their positions together, goals o...
2022-10-1120 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Facility Master Plan CommitteeSeptember 13, 2022, a committee made up of Ankeny parents, community members, and staff began working on the Facility Master Plan (FMP). Co-facilitated by Dr. Darin Haack, an Assistant Superintendent, and RSP & Associates, the district's demographer, the committee completed their first task by drafting financial belief statements. The next meeting is scheduled for September 27, 2022, to discuss academic programming and creating curriculum belief statements. The Ankeny schools website has a frequently asked questions document, the full presentation slide deck from the meeting, and a link to submit questions about the FMP. Questions will be answered by the FMP committee.
2022-09-2717 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The High SchoolsA new school year brings a new administrator, and new projects as principals Dr. Jill Urich and Dr. DJ Johnson share with the Ankeny community in this episode. Bev Kuehn, Executive Director of Secondary Schools at ACSD also joins the panel offering insight into how she and the principals work together to make the transitions from the middle schools a smooth transition.
2022-09-0541 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Neveln Center and New Elementary BuildingExciting changes are coming! The renovation of an original Ankeny school buildings is almost complete and scheduled to open in January 2023. It will be used as the new office for district administration. New construction has also started at the site for our newest elementary building. It's scheduled to open Fall of 2024. Here's your chance to hear how these projects are progressing and get some insight to how the district plans for big projects like these.
2022-08-2921 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Back to SchoolThere's just something about the first week of school. In this episode, Dr. Pruitt talks with Tara Owen, Executive Director of Elementary Schools and Bev Kuehn, Executive Director of Secondary Schools for Ankeny Community School District. These administrators have a lot to say about the preparation that has taken place by the principals and teachers for ACSD. Tune in and find out what your kids will see and experience in these first few days.
2022-08-2329 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Safety, Security and Ankeny SchoolsThe topic of student safety in schools is a serious one around the nation. This episode welcomes Ankeny's Chief of Police, Darius Potts and Ankeny Schools Safety and Security Specialist, Jon Davis to address our district's readiness plans for weather, threats and emergencies.
2022-08-1931 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Facility Maintenance 2022-23Join Tim Simpkins as he provides details of current renovation to Ankeny school buildings, the decision for new landscaping, and how the district decides the when, where and what of scheduling these projects with Dr. Pruitt, Superintendent and Dr. Haack, Assistant Superintendent of Ankeny schools.
2022-08-1515 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... School Bus TransportationOn July 1, 2022 ACSD partnered with First Student, Inc. as the district's transporation provider. Spencer Shoemaker with First Student has a lot to say about the safety, comfort, and experience First Student brings to Ankeny students in the upcoming school year.
2022-08-1220 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Diversity, Equity, and InclusionLet's Talk about the DEI Framework. Ken Morris Jr. the Chief Diversity Officer with Ankeny Community School District takes a deep dive into a conversation with Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt about what it means to create and live a DEI Framework for the district. The conversation includes how this framework supports the Strategic Plan and how it will positively impact students.
2022-08-1050 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... New Curriculum Part 2: Computer ScienceThe topic is computer science in part two of a two-part series on new curriculum at Ankeny Community Schools. In this podcast, Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum, is back and joins Dr. Erick Pruitt, superintendent of Ankeny Schools talk about the future expectations of computer science in grades K - 7.
2022-07-1815 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... New Curriculum Part 1: MathAs a parent, when your school district starts talking about a new curriculum it can make you panic. In Part one of a two-part series, Dr. Erick Pruitt chats with Ankeny Schools' Director of Curriculum, Carol Eddy. Pull up a chair to our table as Ms, Eddy explains what curriculum is vs the perceptions, the changes you as may see at home, and how you can help your student navigate it all.
2022-07-1229 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Nutrition ServicesSchool nutrition is more than just pizza for lunch. Scott Litchfield Ankeny Schools' Nutrition Director talks about summer plans, 2022 successes and plans for next year. Pull up to the table and let's talk about school nutrition.
2022-06-2831 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Heritage Elementary STEAM NightSTEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math has added "A" for Art to become STEAM. Ankeny school, Heritage Elementary, hosted it's first STEAM night to provide hands on fun and exploration of STEAM skills. Host, Samantha Aukes, Communications Director for Ankeny Schools sat with STEAM Night organizer Sara Sparks, Digital Technology Teacher at Heritage Elementary to discuss how building administrators are focused on increasing STEAM interests and the future of this successful event.
2022-06-1436 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Why Ankeny?Hiring and recruitment specialist, Michelle Allen, sits with Dr. Erick Pruitt to talk about why prospective job candidates should consider and choose Ankeny Schools to work. Join us as we discuss our mentoring program for teachers, highlight critical positions outside the classroom that keep our district running smoothly and offer candid insight on how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted the education job market.
2022-06-0628 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Memorial DayMemorial Day is a special day to honor those no longer with us who served in the U.S. military. We've invited veteran Ankeny residents to sit and talk with veteran Dr. Erick Pruitt about Memorial Day, their experience in the service and how they as well as other local veterans are having a positive impact on Ankeny students as a ACSD employees, parents, volunteers, and active reserve military. In this episode, Dr. Pruitt has a conversation with a current special education teacher in Ankeny who is a veteran of the Iowa National Guard, a current Ankeny S...
2022-05-3047 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Profile of a GraduateIn this episode our guests have a conversation from the aspects of administrators and a student about the Profile of Graduate put together by a task force of parents, staff and community members. Together the task force identified essential cognitive, personal and interpersonal competencies that every student should have by the time they graduate from high school: Knowledgeable, Authentic, Engaged, Understanding, Curious and Adaptable. Join the table discussion as we hear about Ankeny's Profile of a Graduate.
2022-05-2730 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About the Strategic PlanThroughout the year, planning teams worked hard to reimagine how we might improve in serving our students. Teams of parents, community members, students, and staff worked to create this document that will guide how our district will operate as we strive to achieve our goals. Our hope is that this will serve as an anchor for all the district’s work for the next five years. Our new mission statement is as follows: The Ankeny Community School District engages all students in an educational experience that equips them with the skills to flourish in and contribute to an...
2022-05-2359 minWe Are AnkenyLet's Talk About...Ankeny's HistoryAnkeny started as a railroad and farming community, named after John Fletcher Ankeny. Guest Denny Presnall, a long-time Ankeny resident former teacher, and former Ankeny School Board Director joins Dr. Erick Pruitt, Superintendent of Ankeny Schools to talk about the rich history of Ankeny and Ankeny Schools. Recorded May 6, 2022
2022-05-1237 min
We Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... Literacy with 2021 Miss Iowa, Grace KellerMiss Grace Lynn Keller is serious about her initiative as Miss Iowa 2021 - Read to Succeed. She visited Northwest Elementary School in Ankeny, IA to read with students and share her love of books, stories and the importance of reading everyday. Host, Dr. Erick Pruitt discusses her year as Miss Iowa, traveling the state of Iowa, and what her future holds with only a few weeks to go in her reign. You can follow Ms. Keller on Instagram @gracelynnkeller for life after the crown.
2022-05-0938 minWe Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... The Ankeny ExperienceFrom Pre-K to senior year, what does the Ankeny schools experience look like? Host, Dr. Erick Pruitt is joined by Ankeny Schools administrators Dr. Jen Lindaman, Chief Officer of Academic Services and Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum and Innovation to discuss how the Ankeny Experience for students has evolved and what we can look for in the future.
2022-05-0232 minWe Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... the district budgetHost & Ankeny Schools Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt welcomes Jennifer Jamison the district's Chief Financial Officer to talk about the newly certified budget for the fiscal year 2023.
2022-04-2520 minWe Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... School EnrollmentSuperintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt talks enrollment with Dr. Darin Haack, Chief Operations Officer of Ankeny Schools and Kirk Magill, Integrated Systems Administrator for the district. Key topics including emerging enrollment trends for 2022-23, challenges of school registration and projections for Ankeny School enrollment are just a few highlights from this podcast. Recorded 04/18/22.
2022-04-1825 minWe Are AnkenyLet's Talk About... the new Ankeny Schools PodcastAnkeny Community School District Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt, introduces a new podcast produced officially by Ankeny Schools.
2022-04-1400 min
Ankeny Baptist ChurchLiving With the Chronic Pressure of TrialLiving With the Chronic Pressure of Trial by Ankeny Baptist Church
2020-05-2419 min2020-05-1719 minAnkeny Baptist ChurchFinding God's Good in Our FamiliesFinding God's Good in Our Families by Ankeny Baptist Church
2020-05-1020 min2020-05-0328 min
Keystone ConversationsKeystone Conversations Episode 1 | Intent of the HeartListen to elders Randy Woodbury & Phillip Ramsey as they talk with The Salt Company Ankeny Director and Teaching Pastor Austin Wadlow about issues like loving your house and correcting the intent of your heart.
2018-01-2200 min