Épisodes

  • Why School Libraries Matter: Insights from Williamston's New Librarian

    Why School Libraries Matter: Insights from Williamston's New Librarian
    Oct 30 2025
    In the latest episode of the Hornet Hive podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis introduces listeners to one of Williamston Community Schools' newest and most passionate staff members: Alexis Thune, the new elementary librarian. This engaging conversation provides a unique window into the crucial role school libraries play in shaping young minds, fostering creativity, and building community. Alexis, who moved from Iowa in 2019 when her husband began graduate studies at Michigan State University, brings both teaching experience and heartfelt enthusiasm for books to Williamston. She shares how her love for literature and libraries guided her back to education, describing the new librarian position as her "dream job." Alexis's genuine excitement to help children discover the joy of reading shines throughout the episode. One main theme is the importance of libraries as spaces of exploration and imagination. Alexis notes that "these kids are getting free books to read. They don't have to pay a thing for them," underscoring the library's unique ability to expand students' worlds at no cost. She passionately defends libraries as "one of our best assets as a society," offering children the chance to discover stories and perspectives that both reflect their own experiences and introduce them to new ways of thinking. Another central point is Alexis's personalized approach to motivating students—by getting to know their interests and connecting them with the perfect book, whether it's Minecraft guides or stories about axolotls. She emphasizes the value of creating a welcoming, safe space where every child feels confident to explore new ideas. The episode also explores how technology is reshaping the library experience. Alexis highlights the importance of e-readers, audiobooks, and even closed captioning as new ways for children to engage with reading and the written word, reflecting the dynamic, evolving nature of modern school libraries. Collaboration also takes center stage, with Alexis expressing her readiness to work closely with teachers and parents. She invites families to ask their children about the books they're reading and to get involved as library volunteers—a tradition she's eager to continue. If you're passionate about education, literacy, or community, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to learn more about Alexis Thune's vision and the transformative power of the elementary library. Her excitement is infectious, and her message is clear: together, we can inspire the next generation to love reading and learning. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you with us this week. As always, I thoroughly enjoy having an opportunity to talk to you about the amazing things that are happening in our schools. And as a part of that, I love being able to introduce you to the staff behind the scenes, the people that are working with our kids on a daily basis, because I know not everyone in our school district you will have had a chance to meet, and that includes some of our newest staff that have joined the district. And today I've got another great guest with us. Alexis Tuney is with us today. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:00]: And Alexis is our brand new elementary librarian. And for many of you who have had kids in the elementary schools, I am sure that one of the high points of their week is an opportunity to go to the library to get books, to be really engaged with reading. And Alexis is our new person that's going to be leading the charge and working with our kids in that way. So I'm really excited to have her here today and to introduce her to you and for you to get to know her a little bit better. Alexis, thanks so much for being here today. Alexis Thune [00:01:33]: Absolutely. Thank you for having me. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:35]: It is my pleasure having you here today. And I guess first and foremost, I really want to turn it over to you for you to tell us a little bit about yourself and what brought you to education and specifically what brought you to this role as a librarian. Alexis Thune [00:01:48]: So fun fact about me, I'm actually originally from Iowa. My husband and I moved to the Michigan area in 2019. He's going to grad school at MSU, so we're staying for that here. And then I just really fell in love with teaching. It's what I originally went to school for. I changed majors a bunch of times and then, ironically enough, ended up back in teaching. I've got a bit of experience teaching art in second grade, but my true passion has always lied with the books. I've always loved the library myself. Alexis Thune [00:02:16]: I'm a bit of a bookworm, so getting to have that opportunity really to provide that for the kids is really kind of my dream job. Not to be too corny about it, but it just, it makes my heart so happy to see...
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    10 min
  • Navigating Personal Growth and Change: Maya Boyes

    Navigating Personal Growth and Change: Maya Boyes
    Oct 2 2025
    In the recent episode featuring Myah Boyes (she/her) and Christopher Lewis, listeners are welcomed into an honest, practical, and empowering conversation. This episode is not just another discussion; it's a real, lived account of facing challenges, finding your place in the world, and building the courage to carve your own path. Embracing Authenticity and Owning Your Story One of the most impactful moments in this podcast is when Myah openly discusses her journey of self-acceptance. She explains how owning her identity wasn't always easy, and she relates stories of moments when she felt out of place or misunderstood. "Being your authentic self isn't just about confidence," Myah shares. "It's a daily practice of checking in with yourself and allowing your uniqueness to shine—even when it feels tough." This honesty resonates deeply, offering a reminder that self-discovery is ongoing and requires both courage and vulnerability. Taking Risks and Saying Yes to Opportunity Myah doesn't shy away from talking about risk. She details key points in her life where taking a leap—even before she felt fully ready—led to unexpected growth. She encourages listeners to trust their instincts: "A lot of the time, you won't have all the answers before you begin. But if an opportunity sparks something in you, that's often enough reason to take the first step." By sharing her own stories of uncertain beginnings, Myah motivates others to move past perfectionism and let curiosity guide them. The Power of Connection and Collaboration Throughout the episode, Myah highlights the importance of community and collaboration. Christopher and Myah reflect on projects where listening to—and leaning on—others created stronger results. "No one's journey happens alone," Myah insists, emphasizing how impactful it can be to seek advice, share ideas, and invest in supportive relationships. Why You Should Listen If you're seeking real-world perspective, practical motivation, and stories that remind you you're not alone, this episode is for you. Myah's candid reflections and specific examples make her insights relatable and actionable. Tune in to hear heartfelt advice on navigating identity, embracing your journey, and finding strength in community—you just might walk away with the inspiration you need to start your next chapter. TRANSCRIPT Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamson Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. As always, every week we have a great opportunity to be able to learn about everything that's happening within our schools. And I love being able to share with you not only the great things that are happening, but the people that make our schools work. And you don't get to meet everybody as a, let's say, a parent or a community member within our district. But it's important for you to know who's out there supporting our students. Christopher Lewis [00:00:58]: And. And we have new staff. We have staff that have been around for a very long time. And today I've got another great guest joining us. Myah Boyes is with us today. And Myah is the brand new guidance counselor at the high school. She just joined the Williamston Community Schools this year and I'm really excited to be able to introduce her to you and for you to get to know her a little bit more. Myah, thanks so much for joining me today. Myah Boyes [00:01:22]: Of course, I'm excited to be a part of this. When you reached out to me, I didn't even know there was a podcast and I love podcasts, so of course I had to join. Christopher Lewis [00:01:30]: Well, I'm really excited that you are on today and I guess first and foremost, can you tell me a little bit about your background and what brought you to Williamston? Myah Boyes [00:01:39]: I am a brand new graduate, so I just graduated from Wall State University in Indiana. I actually graduated in July, so very quick turnaround. I did my bachelor's and my master's there, so of course I got my master's in school counseling. I'm kind of from the area. I'm from the Howell area. I went to school there, but I live in Fotherville. And I was very excited to see that there was an opening in Williamston because I like the little town, I like smaller communities and working with those. I did my internship with rural high school, which was very small and they had about 70 students per class. Myah Boyes [00:02:14]: And I just fell in love with being able to create more connections with the students because there was not a million of them like there was at my high school. So building those relationships was very nice. Christopher Lewis [00:02:24]: So you talked about going through your undergrad and from there deciding to go on and get that graduate degree in becoming a guidance counselor. Talk to me about that journey and what made you decide that you wanted to be a guidance counselor. ...
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    14 min
  • A New Chapter at Explorer Elementary: Meet Principal Kathryn Kluszak

    A New Chapter at Explorer Elementary: Meet Principal Kathryn Kluszak
    Sep 18 2025

    If you're interested in what makes Williamston Community Schools such a vibrant and supportive place for students, staff, and families, the latest episode of the "Hornet Hive" podcast is a must-listen. Host Dr. Christopher Lewis welcomes Kathryn Kluszak, the energetic and compassionate new principal of Explore Elementary, for a conversation packed with insight, warmth, and a touch of personal flair.

    Right from the start, Kathryn's passion for education and community shines through. Listeners get to learn about her journey—beginning in early childhood education, moving into kindergarten teaching, and steadily growing as a leader through roles in East Lansing Public Schools. She shares how her experiences, especially during the challenges of the virtual learning era, set her on a path to school leadership and, ultimately, to joining the welcoming Williamston community.

    One of the episode's strongest themes is the importance Kathryn places on relationships. She emphasizes that building honest, positive connections with staff, students, and families is her top priority for this first year. Kathryn is keen on maintaining the already strong, collaborative culture of Explorer Elementary—underlining her commitment to be present, approachable, and supportive, both inside the school and in the broader community.

    Dr. Lewis and Kathryn touch on what makes Williamston special: its small-town charm, the strong sense of belonging, and the school's central role in the lives of its residents. Kathryn is effusive about the warmth and involvement of parents and the impressive academic and co-curricular opportunities available to students—from STEAM and Spanish to art, music, and physical education.

    The episode is sprinkled with personal touches: Kathryn's love of running (including her marathon experience), her favorite subject in school, and the qualities her friends say she embodies—compassion, loyalty, and care.

    But perhaps the most inspiring message Kathryn shares is simple: every child deserves to feel valued, safe, and excited to learn when they enter school each day. She encourages students to believe in themselves and reassures families that every staff member is dedicated to supporting both the academic and emotional growth of their children.

    Want to feel inspired about the future of Explorer Elementary and the power of educational leadership? Tune in to this episode of "Hornet Hive" and get to know the heart of your local school through its new principal's story.
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    15 min
  • Celebrating Service, Community, and Connection: Reflections with Linda Ereg

    Celebrating Service, Community, and Connection: Reflections with Linda Ereg
    Sep 4 2025
    This week on the Hornet Hive podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis sits down with Linda Ereg, a cornerstone of the Williamston High School counseling team who recently retired after years of dedicated service. Their lively and heartfelt conversation shines a light not just on Linda's impressive career, but also on the values and spirit of the Williamston Community Schools themselves. If you're looking for an uplifting reminder of what makes school communities thrive—or simply want to get inspired by the story of one person's impact—this episode is a must-listen. A Career Built On Compassion and Adaptability Linda's journey at Williamston began serendipitously, starting as an at-risk coordinator, drawing from her background in mental health and social work. Over time, she transitioned from that role into teaching English and health, and then stepped into the guidance counselor position—a natural fit, given her warmth, empathy, and deep commitment to student wellbeing. What's striking about Linda's story is her remarkable adaptability and willingness to grow. She constantly found new ways to meet student needs, whether launching an after-school homework lab or strengthening networks between families and the school. The Power of Relationships Time and again, Linda emphasizes how connections made all the difference—between staff and students, among colleagues, and within the broader Williamston community. Building trust, being present, and reaching out to those who might otherwise fall through the cracks became her trademarks. She shares moving stories about helping students overcome academic and personal struggles, including her early experience convincing a teacher to give a struggling student a second chance—which led to that student ultimately graduating. These anecdotes underscore an essential lesson: it's relationships, not rigid rules, that open doors for growth. Resilience Drawn From Community Linda also speaks candidly about personal challenges, including the loss of her son and how the support she received from the Williamston community gave her strength. Her story is a testament to the ways schools can be safe harbors, nurturing not just students but the staff who guide them. Her gratitude and love for the community shine through—and remind us that education is about so much more than curriculum. Why Listen? Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or simply someone who believes in the power of community, Linda's reflections offer wisdom, humor, and heart. Tune in to this episode of the Hornet Hive to celebrate a career well spent—and to rediscover what makes school communities like Williamston so special. TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamson Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited that you're back with us this week. And, and this week I am so excited to be able to talk with Linda Ehrig. And Linda has been a counselor at Williamston High School for many years. And actually she just retired this year after many years of service to the Williamston Community Schools. And I thought it would be a great opportunity to be able to learn a little bit more about Linda, you know, what has kept her here, what has sustained her, what has made Williamston a place where she has wanted to devote her career and allow for you to get to know her a little bit more before she leaves the district for good out into her the next phase of her personal life. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:08]: So I'm really excited to have her here. Linda, thanks so much for joining us today. Linda Ereg [00:01:12]: Well, thank you for asking me. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:13]: Well, I've been asking you for a while, so I'm excited that, that you finally said yes, that is true. And that we were able to get you on to talk about your journey. And, and I guess first and foremost I want to go back in time because like I said, you've been at the, in the schools for. And what initially brought you to working in Williamson? Linda Ereg [00:01:33]: What brought me to Williamson was that Community Mental Health was having at risk coordinators. They had advertised and were placing them in schools that thought that they needed to have someone else working with an at risk population, as we would say, or students that were struggling. They were having some issues with some of the seniors not being able to graduate. And there was starting to be a rise with the dropout rate. So the principal was very worried about that. And they also needed somebody that had a social work background with special education. So that's originally what I was going to get hired and Community Mental Health put me in there. I was a therapist, social worker before and I noticed I was ready to make a move professionally. Linda Ereg [00:02:17]: So I saw this and apply to Community Mental Health and then interviewed here. So, so that's how I ...
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    17 min
  • Building for the Future: Exciting Updates from Williamston Community Schools

    Building for the Future: Exciting Updates from Williamston Community Schools
    Aug 14 2025
    As the school year kicks off in Williamston, there's a spirit of excitement and promise in the air. On the latest episode of the Hornet Hive podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis (Board of Education member) sits down with Dr. Adam Spina, Superintendent of Schools, to share an inside look at how the district is "Building for the Future"—not just as a theme, but as a living reality for students, staff, and the whole community. Summer Buzz: Camps and Construction Dr. Spina highlights that while summer may seem quieter with school out, the district is anything but idle. The longstanding Kids Camp kept campuses vibrant and energetic, and serves as a reminder of the community's commitment to giving kids meaningful summer experiences. Dr. Spina even gives a heartfelt shout-out to Rebecca Olson and her staff, who make the camp program such a success each year. But it's the many projects—both visible and more behind-the-scenes—that take up much of the summer. Thanks to a recently approved bond, the district has tackled four major renovations: new lockers and classroom furniture at the middle and high schools, major upgrades to the tennis courts (with help from a generous grant), and a fast-tracked overhaul of the softball field. Dr. Spina gives listeners an update on their status and provides a peek at the careful planning required to get everything ready for students' return. Beyond Bricks and Mortar "Building for the Future" goes well beyond construction. Dr. Spina emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, whether that's implementing new teaching tools like flexible classroom seating, upgrading technology for teachers and students, or rolling out curriculum advances (hello, new K-8 math curriculum!). The commitment to safety is evident too, with updates to security systems and classroom environments across the district. The theme is about more than physical buildings—it's about supporting growth, innovation, and wellbeing. Dr. Spina likens it to a championship team that doesn't rest on its laurels: even after success, the drive to get better never stops. New hires, process reviews, and expert consultations all point toward a future-focused mindset. Stay Engaged As construction continues into the school year and new programs roll out, Dr. Spina encourages open communication—parents, staff, and community members are always welcomed to reach out. To get the full story and hear these updates straight from district leaders, check out the episode. It's an inspiring reminder that in Williamston, building for the future means investing in every aspect of student success. Give the Hornet Hive a listen—you'll feel the energy and vision for yourself! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamson Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again and we are getting ready, ready for a brand new school year, but also closing out a really busy summer here in Williamston and there's been a lot of things happening and I'm really excited that today. We have Dr. Spina, Superintendent of Schools on the podcast today to talk about some of these things because it has been a really busy summer and as always, we're really excited about the kickoff of the new year. So we're gonna be talking about all of these different things. Dr. Spina, thanks so much for being here today. Dr. Adam Spina [00:00:58]: Hi, Chris. Yeah, the summer flew by, at least it did for me. But it's been very productive here and so looking forward to sharing what was accomplished and some things to look forward to as the 25, 26 school year commences. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:11]: Now, I know that one of the things that happens over every summer is we have our long standing kids camp program that has been within our district for many, many years. And we had another really successful camp again this year. Right? Dr. Adam Spina [00:01:27]: Yeah. Sometimes people ask me if it gets lonely in the summer when all the students are gone, and I sometimes just remind them that we have the camp running throughout the summer and a lot of times the kids are playing right outside the window of my office here. So in a lot of ways, if I'm in here working, it feels like kids are still in session and school's still going. So that's always great. It's a reminder of what we do this for. And seeing the kids having a good time and the friendships they make and the experiences that they get to have over the course of the summer is just great to see. And just a quick shout out to Rebecca Olson, the director, for all the work she puts into organizing that and her staff, who go above and beyond, like all our staff in Williamston do day in and day out to make that a great experience for the students that are there. So appreciate all their work. Dr. Adam Spina [00:02:09]: And another successful year of kids camp here in Williamston also ...
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    15 min
  • Inside Williamston Schools: Spring Updates and Summer Plans from Superintendent Spina

    Inside Williamston Schools: Spring Updates and Summer Plans from Superintendent Spina
    Apr 24 2025
    Welcome back to the Hornet Hive, where we dive into the vibrant developments in the Williamston Community Schools! This week's conversation between Dr. Christopher Lewis and Superintendent Dr. Adam Spina offers an insightful look into the bustling activities shaping our schools. From strategic planning to infrastructure improvements, there's plenty to get excited about. As the academic year rushes towards its close, the pace at Williamston is picking up. Dr. Spina shares how the district's proactive approach, leveraging real-time student data, sets the foundation for both immediate interventions and future planning. This holistic use of data ensures our students receive the necessary support to thrive, making Williamston a model for educational excellence. Summer may mean vacation for students, but for the district, it opens the door to critical projects. Thanks to the generous support of the community's recent bond approval, big-ticket improvements are on the horizon. Tennis courts and lockers are set for renewals, while classroom furniture upgrades reflect thoughtful staff input. Plus, a major revamp of the softball facilities promises to make it one of the finest in the area by 2026. The conversation also highlights the importance of community engagement through upcoming events. The "Be Nice" initiative stands out with its dual mission of mental health awareness and bullying prevention. The Be Nice soccer game and the inaugural Be Nice Festival are not just school events; they're community rallies for a vital cause. Dr. Spina invites everyone to participate, reinforcing that our schools are committed to fostering a supportive environment for all students. Additionally, the annual Williamson Schools Foundation Golf Outing offers a lighter note, combining fun with fundraising. This popular event helps fuel the district's diverse initiatives, further strengthening the community-school bond. Dr. Spina and Dr. Lewis capture the essence of what makes the Williamston Community Schools a cornerstone of community pride and development. They remind us of the many ways we can engage with and support our schools, whether through participating in events, keeping up with newsletters, or simply staying informed. Dive into this episode of the Hornet Hive to explore how data-driven strategies and community support are shaping our children's futures. Your involvement and support can make a difference. So, listen in and become part of the exciting journey that is Williamston Community Schools! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:20]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I am your host, doctor Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. It's been a really busy semester and a lot of things happening within the schools. And it's always exciting to be able to hear from our superintendent, doctor Adam Spina, about the amazing things that are happening in our schools. And I'm really happy that he is back with us again this week. Doctor. Spina, thanks so much for being here. Dr. Adam Spina [00:00:50]: Thanks, Chris. Glad to be back with you. As you mentioned, it's been a busy semester, Hard to believe that it's after spring break already, and I'm watching, some of our elementary students outside my window here in the office playing in the sunshine. So it's, good to see that, we're finally getting some warmer weather, although begrudgingly, getting here. And hopefully, by the time this comes out, we'll have some more consistent, sunny days and warmer temperatures. But looking forward to being able to provide some updates on what's taking place this spring and over the summer with you. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:21]: You know, I know that as you look at the end of the school year and as you are preparing for looking at the fall, this is the time of year that you and your team do a lot of that planning to prepare for the next academic year. So talk to me a little bit about some of the things that are in the works. Dr. Adam Spina [00:01:41]: So spring is always our our busiest time, especially in in central office. But I know in the at the school level, it's it's the same as well as that's a combination of revving up all the special events and activities and all the things that encompass, a school year while simultaneously planning and preparing for the following school year. So we find ourselves kind of in the middle of that at the time of this recording. You know, I was gonna think of it if you're running a race, April is kinda like where you would start to pick up the pace a little bit, and then May is kinda that sprint to the finish. So we are the the pace is accelerating, but it's going to get more into a sprint type mode here in another week or so. And it's just how it goes. So a lot taking place right now. One of the things I want to just talk a little bit about was our district day to day process and how we utilize ...
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    16 min
  • Williamston Schools Update: Bond Progress, Tech Revamp, and Addressing Smart Devices in Classrooms

    Williamston Schools Update: Bond Progress, Tech Revamp, and Addressing Smart Devices in Classrooms
    Dec 19 2024
    As we inch closer to the heart of the holiday season, there's a lot to celebrate, especially considering the impactful changes on the horizon. Hosted by Dr. Christopher Lewis, the latest episode of the Hornet Hive podcast features insights from Dr. Adam Spina about the district's progress and upcoming initiatives. Here's a comprehensive look into the updates that were discussed. Community-Supported Bond: A New Dawn for School Infrastructure Gratitude to the Community Dr. Spina started by expressing his gratitude for the overwhelming support the community showed during the bond election in August. This bond, seen as a long-term investment in the schools, aims to set up students for future success. Initial Projects Underway From band instruments to classroom furniture, the bond encompasses a variety of projects thoughtfully planned to utilize taxpayer dollars effectively. One striking initiative is the replacement of outdated locker systems in middle and high schools, which are slated to be installed by summer 2025. The bond will also enhance athletic facilities, with significant investments in a new tennis court complex and an expedited renovation of the softball complex. Revamping Technology: The New District Website What to Expect In addition to these structural developments, Dr. Spina revealed that a long-overdue update to the district's website will finally go live in early January 2025. While the current website, which had been Dr. Spina's pet project for years, served the community well, the new design aims to be more user-friendly and conducive to timely communication. Transition and Training The tech team is hard at work making the final adjustments and conducting training sessions for staff to ensure a smooth transition. Though there may be a few bugs initially, the district is committed to addressing these efficiently to provide a seamless user experience. Smart Devices in Schools: Policies and Perspectives The Challenge Another focal point is the ongoing discussion about the impact of smart devices on adolescents' learning and mental health. Reflecting on national and state-level discussions, Dr. Spina shared how the district implemented new policies to restrict device usage during school hours. Collecting Community Feedback In a move to engage the community in this crucial conversation, a series of surveys are being conducted to gather input from parents, students, and faculty. These insights will help shape future policies, ensuring they align with the community's perspectives and needs. A Season of Gratitude and Community: Holiday Messages Community Involvement The holiday season provides a unique backdrop to witness the strong ties between the schools and the broader Williamston community. Students and staff actively participate in community programs, whether through performances, volunteer work, or festive events like the light parade. Dr. Spina's Wishes Dr. Spina extended his heartfelt thanks for the continued support and shared his best wishes for the holiday season and the upcoming year. He anticipates 2025 to be a year filled with exciting developments that will further enrich the community and its schools. Stay Connected This episode serves as a reminder of the impactful changes occurring within Williamston Community Schools. Dr. Lewis encourages everyone to stay engaged, offering an open channel for feedback and inquiries. As we step into 2025, the community's involvement remains crucial in shaping the future of our schools. Stay tuned to the Hornet Hive podcast for more updates, and happy holidays from Williamston Community Schools! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:19]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, doctor Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. And as always, I love having you here to be able to hear about the amazing things that are happening within our schools. And every once in a while, we have the opportunity to bring Doctor. Adam Spina back on to talk about, in general, kind of what's going on in our schools and talking about progress on different goals and and progress on different things. So I'm always excited to be able to have him back here to talk about that. And today we do have doctor Spina with us, so I'm really excited to have him here. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:59]: Doctor Spina, thanks for being back again this week. Dr. Adam Spina [00:01:02]: Hi, Chris. Looking forward to providing some updates on things going on in the district as we approach the holiday season. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:08]: I know one of the big things that you've been working on after we had the election in August was to really start moving forward with the bond, thanks to the support of our community. And I thought it might be a good time to have you give a little bit of an update on where things are at at this point. Dr. Adam Spina [00:01:28]: Well, I ...
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    20 min
  • Middle School Math Magic: Nick Niederquell's Passion for Teaching

    Middle School Math Magic: Nick Niederquell's Passion for Teaching
    Nov 21 2024
    In this week's episode of the Hornet Hive podcast we sit down with Nick Niederquell, a passionate 6th-grade math teacher at Williamston Middle School. Nick shares his unique journey into teaching, the benefits of being a part of the same school community as his children, and his philosophy on the growth mindset in education. Here's a deeper look into the topics discussed in this enriching episode. Choosing Williamston: A Personal Decision Nick Niederquell's decision to teach in Williamston is both a personal and professional choice. As a father of twin 8th graders, Nick finds an unparalleled joy in teaching in the same environment where his children are growing up. He talks about the immeasurable value of seeing his children and their friends every day, whether in the hallway giving fist bumps or on the soccer field where he assists in coaching. "It is a priceless thing to teach in the same classroom school hall hallways as my own kid," Nick said, emphasizing how this crossover enriches both his family life and his professional life. Williamston offers a small-town vibe while being conveniently close to Lansing, making it an ideal location for raising a family. The Path to Teaching Math Nick didn't always know he wanted to be a teacher. Initially, on the engineering path at Michigan State University, he soon realized that working with people was his true calling. After struggling through upper-level math courses himself, he understood the importance of not only being good at math but also knowing how to overcome difficulties. "Spending days with people and training up the younger generations was a lightbulb moment for me," Nick said. His personal struggle with difficult mathematical concepts has equipped him with the empathy and techniques necessary to help students succeed. By transforming his classroom into a space where mistakes are just steps toward progress, Nick makes math both challenging and achievable for his students. Creating a Positive Environment What sustains Nick in his teaching role is his love for his colleagues and students. He spoke highly of the close-knit team of dedicated educators at Williamston Middle School, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Drawing inspiration from his fellow teachers, he has found his own voice and methods for motivating and educating 6th graders effectively. The Power of a Growth Mindset One of the standout moments in the podcast was when Nick talked about the importance of a growth mindset. Inspired by Carol Dweck's body of work, he emphasizes "Practice makes progress" over the older adage "Practice makes perfect." This shift removes the pressure of perfection and encourages students to view each attempt as a step towards improvement. "I have loved bringing my energy by doing pushups in class and saying, 'Alright, students, here we go. We're going to do another few reps at this,'" Nick shared. This engaging approach makes learning enjoyable and shows students that persistence will eventually lead to understanding. Nick Niederquell's teaching journey is a beautiful blend of personal fulfillment and professional dedication. By teaching in Williamston, he not only strengthens his family ties but also enriches the community with his energetic and caring approach. His story is an excellent example of how educators can make a significant impact by fostering a growth mindset and creating a positive, supportive learning environment. Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Hornet Hive to hear more of Nick's inspiring journey and insights. Take a listen and let us know how you'll bring a growth mindset into your own home or classroom! TRANSCRIPT Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:00:19]: Welcome back to the Hornet Hive. I'm your host, Dr. Christopher Lewis, one of the members of the Williamston Community Schools Board of Education. Really excited to have you back again this week. And this week as always, I love being able to introduce you to people within our district that are doing amazing things, working with our students to help them be the, the students that we want them to be in the district and helping them to find success in that educational journey that they're on. And this week we've got another great guest with us today. Nick Niederquill is with us today and Nick is a math teacher at our middle school, working with our 6th graders and teaching them math and helping them to be able to find success in math. Nick, I am really excited to have you here today. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:05]: Thanks so much for being here and look forward to getting to know you a little bit more. Nick Niederquell [00:01:09]: Thank you for having me. And I'm looking forward to just the integration within our own schools. Dr. Christopher Lewis [00:01:14]: So the first question that I always ask, and I know you've been a teacher for many years and you were a teacher for many years outside of our district and then had the opportunity and decided to come to our ...
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    12 min