West Aurora 129 Podcast

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Michael Smith, is joined by members of the West Aurora 129 community, including students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders, to discuss personal stories and issues relevant to our school district community.

West Aurora 129 Podcast is a education podcast hosted by West Aurora District 129, with 55 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

West Aurora District 129 hosts West Aurora 129 Podcast, a education show with 55 episodes published.

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  West Aurora 129 Podcast

  Episode 56 - Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear

  May 19, 202619 min

  In Episode 56 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith welcomes Jewel Middle School special education teachers Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear for a conversation about mentorship, relationships, and supporting students with diverse needs. Mia, a second-year teacher in a self-contained classroom, and Heather, a veteran educator and mentor teacher, reflect on the connection they’ve built through the district’s teacher induction program and how that support system helps new-to-SD129-educators grow with confidence. The episode also offers an inside look at the different roles special education teachers play in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about collaboration, growth, and the relationships that help both students and teachers thrive in West Aurora School District 129.

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  West Aurora 129 Podcast

  Episode 55 - Dexter McWilliams

  Apr 17, 202621 min

  In Episode 55 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith is joined by West Aurora High School senior and student board representative Dexter McWilliams for a student-centered conversation on the district’s “off and away” cell phone policy. Dexter shares his journey through SD129, highlighting the relationships, activities, and experiences that shaped his high school years, while offering an honest perspective on how the policy has impacted learning and classroom culture. The discussion explores both the challenges and unexpected benefits, including increased focus, stronger peer connections, and improved productivity. Tune in for a thoughtful look at this initiative through the lens of a student voice and what it means for the future of learning at West Aurora.

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  West Aurora 129 Podcast

  Episode 54 - Dr. Robert Halverson

  Mar 20, 202629 min

  In Episode 54 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with Dr. Robert Halverson, Superintendent of East Aurora School District 131, for a crosstown conversation rooted in shared experiences and community. They reflect on their similar paths from classroom teachers to district leadership and the mentors and relationships that shaped their journeys. The discussion highlights how those lessons influence their leadership today, while also looking ahead to expanded opportunities for students and stronger East-West collaboration. Tune in for a thoughtful look at leadership, partnership, and the shared commitment to supporting every student in Aurora.

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  West Aurora 129 Podcast

  Episode 53 - Kelly Cook and Carlos Guillen

  Feb 24, 202634 min

  In Episode 53 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith centers the conversation on a core question in the district’s strategic framework: what it really means to support every learner. Joined by Kelly Cook, Assistant Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and Carlos Guillen, Community Agency and Restorative Practices Coordinator, Dr. Smith explores how strong Tier 1 instruction, structured responsive teaching time (SRTT), and restorative practices work together to meet students’ academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. The discussion highlights a shift from “wait to fail” to early identification and proactive support—building consistent expectations, relationships, and psychological safety so students can learn and grow. Tune in for a clear, behind-the-scenes look at the systems and mindsets that help SD129 serve all students, all the time.

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  West Aurora 129 Podcast

  Episode 52-Leah Warren and Wendy Andrade

  Jan 28, 202631 min

  In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with West Aurora alumni Leah Warren (Class of 2016) and Dr. Wendy Andrade (Class of 2013) as they return to campus to connect with current students. The conversation explores how their experiences in SD129 helped prepare them for life beyond high school, from navigating rigorous academics and diverse communities to building confidence, resilience, and meaningful relationships. Leah and Wendy also share honest insights about career pivots, post-secondary surprises, and advice for students and parents as they consider what comes next. It’s a thoughtful reminder of the lasting impact of education.

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