Public School Podcast

Amy Rose

Welcome to The Public School Podcast, where real stories, real people, and real passion for education come together. Hosted by Sara Hornick, Executive Director of the Public School Foundation, and Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for Rapid City Area Schools, we’re diving into the heart of public education. Each episode, we sit down with community members, dedicated school staff, and passionate advocates to ask one simple but powerful question: Why do public schools matter? From classroom wins to community-wide challenges, The Public School Podcast is your front-row seat to the conversations that shape our students’ futures and our shared tomorrow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Brewing Confidence One Cup at a Time

    5d ago

    Brewing Confidence One Cup at a Time

    This episode of the Public School Podcast shines a spotlight on the Raider Coffee House at Stevens High School, where students are learning far more than how to make coffee. Hosts Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with students Roberta and Devin, along with teacher Peggy Bias, to talk about the student run coffee shop that has become a place for confidence, teamwork and growth. From learning customer service and handling money to presenting at a statewide conference, the students share heartfelt and funny stories about what the Raider Coffee House means to them. The conversation includes memorable moments, lessons learned from mistakes, the importance of supportive teachers, and how public schools help students discover their strengths. The episode is packed with laughter, honesty and powerful reminders that every student is capable of success when given the opportunity and support to thrive.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  2. Thrifted with Purpose

    Jun 3

    Thrifted with Purpose

    Central High School students are proving that a great idea can turn into something that truly changes lives. In this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High science teacher and Thrift Club advisor Heather Kiplinger to talk about the student led club bringing free clothing, creativity, and confidence to students across the school. From professional clothes for job interviews to upcycled fashion projects and lunch hour “shopping days,” the Thrift Club has quickly become more than just a place to grab clothes. It has become a space where students connect, support one another, and build community. The conversation also dives into favorite thrift finds, fashion challenges, flower crowns, and why public schools continue to matter for every student. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    20 min
  3. Healthcare Without Borders

    May 27

    Healthcare Without Borders

    In this episode of the Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Central High School healthcare teacher Brendon Sato to talk about the growing opportunities for students interested in the medical field. From hands on healthcare training and the district’s Certified Nursing Assistant program to plans for an international healthcare tour through Great Britain and Scotland, Sato shares how real world experiences can shape a student’s future. The conversation explores the importance of exposure, travel, and practical learning in helping students discover whether healthcare is the right path for them. Sato also reflects on his own journey from laboratory scientist to educator and why preparing students for life beyond graduation is at the heart of public education. The episode also includes stories about classroom experiences, memorable teachers, school lunch favorites, and why public schools continue to make a lasting impact on students and communities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    29 min
  4. Substitute Supermom

    May 20

    Substitute Supermom

    This week on Public School Podcast, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Rapid City substitute teacher and mom of three, Caitlin Scully, to talk about the reality of stepping into classrooms across the district. From comforting nervous students and navigating high school classrooms to surviving without lesson plans and learning the Promethean board, Caitlin shares the joys, challenges and hilarious moments that come with substitute teaching. The conversation also dives into why substitute teachers matter so much, how flexible the job can be for parents, and why community involvement in schools makes a lasting difference. Along the way, the group swaps stories about favorite teachers, dodgeball injuries, cafeteria honey buns, and the legendary singing janitor from Wilson Elementary. It’s a heartfelt and funny episode about public education, showing up for kids, and the people who quietly keep schools running every day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    29 min
  5. More Than Theater

    May 13

    More Than Theater

    After more than two decades leading Central High School’s theater program, Justin Speck sits down with Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer to reflect on a career that helped shape generations of students in Rapid City. From sold out productions and award winning student performances to hilarious backstage mishaps and emotional moments that changed lives, Justin shares the stories behind one of the most respected theater programs in the region. The conversation explores the importance of fine arts in public education, the lasting impact teachers can have on students, and why theater remains one of the most human experiences we can share. It is funny, heartfelt, inspiring, and a reminder of how one teacher can leave a lasting mark on an entire community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  6. Honoring the Journey: The Feathering Ceremony

    May 6

    Honoring the Journey: The Feathering Ceremony

    This episode takes a meaningful look at one of the most powerful traditions in Rapid City Area Schools, the senior honoring and feathering ceremony. Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer are joined by Kit Veit and Marie Hebert to talk about the deep cultural and spiritual significance behind this event, which honors Native American graduates as they reach a major life milestone. From the meaning of eagle feathers and plumes to the role of family, prayer, and community, this conversation highlights why this ceremony matters not just for students, but for generations. You will also hear about the history behind these traditions, how they were once suppressed, and why preserving them today is so important. If you have never attended the feathering ceremony, this episode will show you why it is one of the most moving and impactful events of the school year.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min
  7. From Tiny Learners to Big Impact

    Apr 29

    From Tiny Learners to Big Impact

    What does it really take to teach the youngest learners in our schools? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Jennifer Maciejewski, a junior kindergarten teacher at Valley View Elementary and former South Dakota Teacher of the Year finalist. Jennifer shares what a typical day looks like in her classroom, the importance of early childhood education, and how those first school experiences shape a child’s future. The conversation also dives into the heart behind teaching, the challenges and rewards of working with little learners, and the unexpected opportunities that come with being recognized for excellence, including a once in a lifetime ride in a Blue Angels jet. It is a fun, honest look at the people who help build the foundation for lifelong learning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min
  8. A Parent’s View from the Press

    Apr 22

    A Parent’s View from the Press

    What happens when a local journalist is also a parent in the school system? In this episode, Sara Hornick and Bobbi Schaefbauer sit down with Chris Hornick of Homeslice Media and the Rapid City Post to talk about the unique perspective of covering schools while raising kids in them. From funny parenting moments to the responsibility of sharing accurate, positive stories, Chris gives an inside look at how local media and public schools work together to inform and strengthen the community. The conversation also highlights the impact of teachers, the importance of local storytelling, and why supporting public education matters for everyone. Plus, a few laughs along the way, including one unforgettable forged signature story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Public School Podcast, where real stories, real people, and real passion for education come together. Hosted by Sara Hornick, Executive Director of the Public School Foundation, and Bobbi Schaefbauer, Community Relations Manager for Rapid City Area Schools, we’re diving into the heart of public education. Each episode, we sit down with community members, dedicated school staff, and passionate advocates to ask one simple but powerful question: Why do public schools matter? From classroom wins to community-wide challenges, The Public School Podcast is your front-row seat to the conversations that shape our students’ futures and our shared tomorrow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Rose
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © all rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Public School Podcast

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