Inside Hopkins Podcast

Inside Hopkins is a biweekly podcast where we unravel the stories of innovation and education in our district.

Hosted by our superintendent, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed, our podcast offers an exclusive peek behind the scenes, featuring conversations with staff, students, experts, and partners, giving you an insider's view of the inner workings of a school district.

Our audience is as diverse as our content – parents, students, district residents, alumni, staff, and even fellow education leaders from different districts. Join us on this journey as we push the boundaries of education and lead the way in innovation. Inside Hopkins is your passport to the future of education.

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Episode Guide

Episode 6 - Exploring Outdoor Immersion at Gatewood Elementary

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In this episode, we dive into the immersive outdoor education program at Gatewood Elementary. Discover how this innovative curriculum not only connects children with the environment, but also enhances academic skills, fosters teamwork, and ignites a lifelong love for the outdoors.

Guests:
Dr. George Nolan, principal, Gatewood Elementary
Ellen Dischinger, Kindergarten teacher, Gatewood Elementary

Episode 5 - LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Our Schools

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In this episode of Inside Hopkins, join our host, Superintendent Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed, in a thoughtful conversation with Laura Jensen, the dedicated LGBTQ+ Community Liaison for our school district. Diving into the heart of inclusivity and diversity, this episode sheds light on the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community within Hopkins Public Schools.

Guest: Laura Jensen
Reading Teacher, North Middle School
Gender & Sexuality Alliance Advisor
Hopkins Schools LGBTQ+ Community Liaison

Episode 4 - The Science of Reading

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In this episode, we take you on a fascinating journey through the Science of Reading and the transformative impact of LETRS training at Hopkins Public Schools. Join us as we speak with Hopkins experts and educators who are contributing to a brighter future for scholars through the power of effective literacy instruction.

Guests: Anne Baird, Elementary Instructional Coach, Tanglen Elementary
Lori O’Neil, 2nd Grade Teacher, Tanglen Elementary
Nakiya and Raven, Students, Tanglen Elementary

Watch

Science of Reading from Hopkins Public Schools on Vimeo.

Episode 3 - Designing Schools for the Future

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Many schools across the nation were built in the industrial age to prepare students for factory work. We know this is an outdated model, and redesigning schools is a complex task. What should schools of the future physically look like, and what are the steps we can take to get there? In this episode, we dive into the future of education by exploring the present state of our schools and the adjustments we could make to promote a more modern style of education. We also discuss a visionary collaboration between Fielding International, an award-winning international educational design firm, and Hopkins Public Schools.

Guests: Randy Fielding, AIA, Founding Principal, Fielding International
Julius Eromosele, Principal, Hopkins North Middle School

Resources

Breaking the Mold

Fielding International

Episode 2 - Preparing for Post-Secondary Success

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Hopkins High School prioritizes post-secondary success through the Royals College and Career Center (RCCC), funded by the Hopkins Education Foundation and led by Dr. Michelle Kuhl. The RCCC offers integrated programs and personalized support, helping students explore their future paths and navigate systems for success, while fostering intentional post-graduation planning.

Guest: Dr. Michelle Kuhl, College and Career Readiness Coordinator, Hopkins High School

Background Reading

Learn more about the Royals College and Career Center in this article.

Episode 1 - Welcome to Freedom School

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Freedom School provides research based and multi-cultural curriculum for scholars and their families. Paris Timmons, Executive Director of Freedom School at Hopkins, shares the history, impact, and vision that Freedom School brings to our community.

Guest: Paris Timmons, Summer and Extended Learning Coordinator, Executive Director of Freedom School – Hopkins Public Schools