Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast

In this special graduation week edition of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we hear from some of our dedicated faculty and staff as they share thoughtful advice and encouraging words for the Class of 2025. As our seniors prepare to take their next steps beyond high school, this episode offers a collection of uplifting messages meant to inspire confidence, resilience, and hope for the future.Whether you're a graduate, a proud family member, or part of our TCSD community, this episode is a celebration of new beginnings and the bright paths ahead.

What happens when you ask students to name a teacher who’s changed their life? You get some genuine, heartfelt, and fun answers. In this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we step out of the office and into the hallways to hear directly from our students as they give shoutouts to the teachers who’ve made a real difference. It’s a celebration of connection, gratitude, and the everyday heroes in our classrooms.

In this fascinating episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with some talented students who have dubbed themselves The "Bee" Team and their incredible teacher, Grant Roberts, from the CLC CTE Graphic Design 3 class. These innovative students recently secured first place in the TSA Game Board Design competition and are now preparing to compete at the TSA Nationals in Tennessee.Join us as we delve into the creative process behind their award-winning board game, Honey Cakes, exploring the real-life lessons and teamwork strategies that led to their success. The students share valuable insights on the "40% rule," building trust, leveraging each other's strengths, and the power of laughter—complete with plenty of "Bee" puns!This episode offers a unique glimpse into the practical skills and collaborative spirit fostered in the Graphic Design class, highlighting the incredible opportunities provided to students across different high schools within the district. Whether you're interested in graphic design, teamwork, or just love a good board game, there's something for everyone in this engaging and educational discussion.Tune in to learn how these students came together to create something extraordinary and discover the life lessons that can be learned from their journey.

If you're a fan of the Rise Up Children's Choir or simply appreciate the harmony of talented voices coming together to create beautiful music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. This week, Dr. Ernst sits down with one of the shining stars of the Rise Up Children's Choir, Kenzington Anderson. Kenzie, a student at Stansbury High School and a member of the school's show choir, shares her journey and the rhythm of her dreams. Her mom, Valerie Anderson, also joins us, providing a backstage pass to the incredible opportunities this choir offers, including tours to sing across the country and beyond. Kenzie talks about following your dreams, hitting the high notes of life, and making the most of every moment. Tune in for an inspiring and memorable performance.Learn More about Rise Up>> https://www.riseupchildren.com/Listen to Kenzie with the AMPLIFY ENSEMBLE>> https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1RwD8N8UeU6O8eiIeMQql5PE4MKjh6QA&si=F_3GhZ-peQG9FsIr

Join Dr Ernst on Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast this week as he explores the world of kindergarten with three of our dedicated elementary educators: Meghan Mouritsen, Michelle Bruderer, and Thomas Trotter. They share their experiences, challenges, and joys of teaching kindergarten, along with insights into recent legislative changes and the registration process.Terra Sherwood also provides valuable behind-the-scenes perspectives about registration. Tune in to hear inspiring stories from the classroom and learn about the resources available to support parents and young learners in Tooele County.

Join Superintendent Ernst and special guests Corley Ward, Silvia Robles Juhas, and Lois Simpson as they discuss the power of learning about different cultures and the growth of the district’s upcoming Culture Fest event. In this episode, we explore the benefits of cultural education and share inspiring stories of communities coming together thanks to the languages being taught in our schools.They also touch on some of the exciting activities, cultural performances, and delicious offerings from local food trucks that will be featured at Culture Fest. Whether you're a student, parent, or community member, this episode is packed with insights and excitement you won't want to miss.

Get ready for a mouth-watering episode of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast"! This week, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst takes us on a flavorful journey through the Stansbury High cafeteria. We'll be joined by Casey Kress, Child Nutrition Director, and Rose Tovar, SHS Child Nutrition Manager, to uncover the secrets behind planning nutritious and delicious school meals.But that's not all! Listen to Dr. Ernst's genuine reactions as he tastes the days main menu item, fish tacos, and tries a special Frazil slushie created uniquely for schools, with a sprinkle of tajin on top. And of course, we have to hear from our most important critics who aren't afraid to share their opinions. We'll talk with Stansbury High students and some faculty to find out their favorite menu items and hear their suggestions for new additions.Tune in for an episode packed with insights, flavors, and a whole lot of fun!

Legendary coaches do more than win games; they shape lives. This week, we celebrate the extraordinary journey of Coach Barry Pitt, soon to be enshrined in the Utah's Coaches Hall of Honor. Dr. Ernst explores Barry's remarkable success on the diamond and the behind-the-scenes efforts that forged a unified, hardworking, and disciplined team built on positivity and trust. We'll also hear from Coach Pitt's wife, Michelle, and former Tooele High athletic director, Richard Valdez, who both had a front row seat to the success. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about the lasting impact of a true coaching legend.

There's nothing quite like the satisfaction of a teacher watching their students blossom and find their passion. In this episode of Elevated Insights, we get a glimpse into what that is like with Tooele High art teacher Ruth Nichols. She joins Superintendent Ernst along with a couple of her talented students as we dive into the vibrant world of art and creativity Recorded right from Ms. Nichols' classroom, this episode captures the essence of artistic expression. Listen as award-winning students Karah Richardson and Taylor Gorringe share their inspiring journeys and the stories behind their celebrated artworks showcased at the prestigious Utah All-State High School Art Show.Gain insights into the creative process, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated by these young artists, along with valuable advice for aspiring artists looking to elevate their work. Tune in for an episode filled with creativity, inspiration, and the sounds of artistic expression in action!

Join us for an enlightening episode of "Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast" as we sit down with two of our dedicated board members, board president Melissa Rich and newly elected Todd Thompson. Discover what it's like to serve on the board, the unique responsibilities they hold, and the motivations behind their decision to get involved. Gain valuable insights into the differences between board duties and district administration, and hear their advice for anyone interested in making a difference in our community. While it can often be a thankless job, we appreciate all the hard work our board members do. Don't miss this chance to get to know the leaders helping shape the future of our district!

Join us for a special episode of Elevated Insights as we take a break from our usual format! This week, Communications Director Brett Valdez steps in for Superintendent Ernst to share some of the funniest and most memorable outtakes from our first 39 episodes. Get ready to laugh and reflect on the wonderful things our teachers and students say. Don't miss these behind-the-scenes moments that showcase the lighter side of our podcasting journey!

As the holidays approach, we hit the schools this week to ask students and teachers about their Christmas favorites! From beloved songs and movies to tasty treats and special traditions, this episode is packed with classic holiday cheer, unique perspectives, and answers that will keep you smiling.Whitney Wallace, Terra Sherwood, and Brett Valdez visited elementary schools in Dugway, Grantsville, Stansbury, and Tooele to capture the magic of the season. Take just ten minutes to get into the holiday spirit, enjoy a few laughs, and even hear some impressive on-the-spot singing.From all of us at Tooele County School District... Happy Holidays!

In this special episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, we celebrate the incredible legacy of Coach Mel Roberts, who dedicated nearly five decades to building the Tooele High School swim program and shaping the lives of countless athletes. Superintendent Ernst is joined by an inspiring lineup of guests: former swimmers Staci Smith, Denise Manzione, and Stuart Smith, as well as Holly Tate, the current Tooele High School swim coach, and Terra Sherwood, a program volunteer whose children swam for Coach Roberts. Together, they share heartfelt memories, motivational messages Coach Roberts instilled in his swimmers, and the life lessons that still resonate today.Whether you’re a swimmer, a sports enthusiast, or someone who values the power of mentorship, this episode is filled with stories, wisdom, and inspiration that extend far beyond the pool. Dive in with us and celebrate a true coaching legend!

Join us on this inspirational episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast, where Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with an amazing group of guests to celebrate the remarkable journey of Connor McInnes, a standout student at Tooele High School. Connor, along with his mother Chantel, and adaptive PE teachers Kenzie Green and Nate Pollmann, share heartwarming stories of inclusion, perseverance, and community support.From winning Unified Sports championships to shining in the Mr. and Miss Amazing Pageant, Connor’s experiences at Tooele High exemplify the inclusive practices being implemented throughout the Tooele County School District. Tune in to hear how TCSD is making a difference for all students and join us in celebrating Connor’s achievements and the supportive network that has helped him thrive.

Get ready for a special on-the-road edition of Elevated Insights! This week, we’re switching things up and bringing you one of our most entertaining episodes yet. We stopped by Mrs. Allen’s 4th grade class at Settlement Canyon Elementary, where the students took over as interviewers. With no advance notice of the questions, Dr. Ernst was put on the spot to tackle everything from “Is your job hard?” to “How strong are you?”This episode is packed with fun insights, lots of laughs, and a glimpse into what 4th graders are most curious about when it comes to our superintendent. Don’t miss this unforgettable listen!

Welcome to another exciting episode of ‘Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast’! Dr. Mark Ernst and guests explore the journey of high school athletes with dreams of playing at the collegiate level. Our fantastic lineup of guests includes:Avery Allred, a senior basketball player from Grantsville High SchoolBoston Valdez, a senior soccer player from Tooele High SchoolPaige Allred, Avery’s mother, who provides a parent’s perspectiveAndee Bouwhuis, the athletic director at Deseret Peak High School and former AD at Bingham High SchoolThey dive into the experiences of Avery and Boston, discuss the different options available for athletes, and explore the evolving ways colleges communicate. Join us for an engaging and informative discussion!

Following up on last week’s episode about Deseret Peak High School, this week we bring you an update on Stansbury Junior High School. Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst sits down with Krista Sparks, the future principal, and Kayden Calder, the "likely" future assistant principal, to discuss the latest construction progress and their dual responsibilities this year. They also highlight the collaborative learning approaches and exciting features like the learning stairs and outdoor amphitheater. Tune in to hear how they are preparing for the school’s opening in Fall 2025 and ensuring a smooth transition for the Stansbury Park community.

Join Superintendent Dr. Mark Ernst on this episode of Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast as he talks about the progress at Deseret Peak High School. Dr. Ernst sits down with Principal Matt Parker, Athletic/Activity Director Andee Bouwhuis, and Finance Secretary Melanie Wiley to discuss everything from construction progress to sports programs and unique course offerings. Discover what’s in store for students, staff, and the community as Deseret Peak prepares to open its doors. Whether you’re a future student, a curious parent, or a community member, this episode gives you an exclusive look into Tooele County’s newest high school!

This week’s episode is a fun and quick listen that dives into the story behind the catchy intro music you hear at the start and end of every Elevated Insights episode. Superintendent Ernst finds himself in a bit of hot water as he reveals the composer behind the music—his talented wife, Julie Ernst! Also a counselor at Dugway Schools, Julie shares how her love for music inspires her and the creative process behind this particular piece.Tune in for this special episode that’s sure to hit all the right notes!

In this episode of ‘Elevated Insights: A TCSD Podcast,’ Dr. Ernst sits down with Kristin Cavey, Scholarship Coordinator at Stansbury High School, and Rose Van Moorlehem, a parent and educator with firsthand success navigating the scholarship application process. They discuss the ins and outs of finding and applying for scholarships, share personal success stories, and offer practical advice for students and parents.For anyone planning to go to college, trade school, or any kind of post-secondary education, this episode is a must. Tune in to learn about local opportunities, the importance of tools like FAFSA, and how to maximize your chances of securing financial aid.