Amplified: The Chesapeake Public Schools Podcast
Our podcast serves as a platform to share the voices and stories of our people - our learners and employees - who shape the vision of Chesapeake Public Schools. This podcast provides our community with a unique insight into district operations, demonstrating how the division creates opportunities, prioritizes innovation, and elevates potential. New episodes are released monthly and feature a wide range of topics, including student achievements, innovative teaching practices, community partnerships, and important district initiatives. You can listen to the stories behind our story by subscribing on your favorite podcast platforms or by visiting cpschools.com/amplified.
Episodes
23 episodes
A Fresh Start
Our Superintendent, Dr. Jared Cotton, shares his excitement for the new school year, even after 34 years in education! In this conversation, he dives into the district’s Empower 2030 strategic plan, developed through collaboration with students...
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Season 3
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Episode 22
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24:19
Beyond the Scoreboard
Three extraordinary student-athletes share their journeys of balancing high-level competitive sports with academic excellence. Sophie Rambo (track), Caleb Neal (wrestling), and Jaden Dabbs (football) discuss what it takes to succeed in both are...
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Season 2
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Episode 21
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17:25
Partnering for Success
Our 20th episode pulls back the curtain on the powerful community partnerships that help us excel. We're joined by DeShonna Brown (Chesapeake Council PTA President), Chris Crouch (Educational Foundation Chair), and Sean Murphy (Foundation Board...
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Season 2
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Episode 20
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24:03
Stronger, Safer Schools
School safety is paramount and in this episode, we delve into the innovative strategies that we employ to ensure the well-being of our students. We highlight key initiatives like the Raptor Alert system and student ID badges that help in monito...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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33:55
A Heart for People
On the latest episode, we celebrate Virginia Principals Appreciation Week by speaking with three dedicated school leaders who share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for fostering positive school environments. Their insights emphasi...
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Season 2
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Episode 18
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28:01
The Power of the Peake
Launched in the fall of 2024, the Power of the Peake is our new Employee Recognition Program and this episode shines a light on the program and our first award recipients in the areas of SUPPORT, TEACH, and LEAD. Listen today as they share thei...
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Season 2
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Episode 17
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22:45
AI in Our Classrooms: Part 2
Explore how technology is transforming education with Maria Kainz, a first-year English teacher at Oscar Smith High, and Andrew LeClair, a technology innovation coach from Hickory Middle. Together, they discuss the opportunities and challenges ...
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Season 2
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Episode 16
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22:36
AI in Our Classrooms: Part 1
In our latest podcast episode, Dr. Jeffrey Faust, our Chief Technology Innovation Officer, explores how we are starting to incorporate artificial intelligence in our schools. He shares AI’s practical applications, addressing how it helps stream...
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Season 2
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Episode 15
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26:15
Hang Up and Hang Out
Today, we sit down with Matt Graham and Chris Vail to unpack Chesapeake Public Schools' "Away for the Day" cell phone policy, aligned with Governor Youngkin's Executive Order 33. You'll hear firsthand accounts from Principal Jeff Johnson, teach...
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Season 2
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Episode 14
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32:24
Back to School with Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton
Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton as he shares the extensive preparations that pave the way for a smooth and successful new school year. He also provides invaluable tips for parents, teachers, and s...
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Season 2
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Episode 13
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23:30
ConGRAD's to the Class of 2024!
Relive the excitement of your senior year! This episode captures the spirit and determination of our graduates. One senior from each of the high schools joined the podcast sharing their memorable moments and future endeavors, offering adv...
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Season 1
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Episode 12
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12:14
Honoring Our Champions in Teaching
Our teachers are world-class educators who inspire, engage, and empower all learners to achieve their highest potential! There is no competition...our teachers take the gold!It's Teacher Appreciation Week, and in this episode, we are joi...
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Season 1
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Episode 11
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22:00
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Supporting Our Military Families
Discover the profound impact of Chesapeake Public Schools' collaboration with military-connected students, as Laura Lerf, Family and Community Engagement Specialist, and Captain Matt Frauenzimmer the Commanding Officer from NSA Hampton Roads...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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21:12
Keeping Our Schools Safe
Safety within our schools takes center stage as we sit down with Penny Schultz, Assistant Director of Safety and Security, and Matt Hamel, Commonwealth's Attorney, to get a behind-the-scenes look at the strategies and dedication driving the loc...
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Season 1
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Episode 9
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30:53
The Benefits of Dual Enrollment
🎙🎧 In this episode, Christine Sperelakis-Babb, Coordinator of College Readiness from Chesapeake Public Schools, and Holly Desteli of Tidewater Community College guide us through a better understanding of the dual enrollment program in Ch...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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22:48
From the Classroom to a Career
Imagine a future where every student has the tools and opportunities to carve out a successful career path – it's happening right now in the world of Career and Technical Education (CTE). February's CTE Month shines a light on the experiences o...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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25:53
Principles From Our Principals
This week's heartfelt tribute to our educational leaders during Virginia School Principals Week takes you behind the scenes with two of Chesapeake Public Schools' finest, Mr. Paul Joseph and Dr. Michelle Ferebee. Uncover Paul's unexpected journ...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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28:00
Leaders and Champions
Ever wondered what student leadership really entails and how it impacts the community? Experience firsthand the intricate workings of student councils, and the positive impact of these young leaders through our insightful conversati...
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Season 1
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Episode 5
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33:53
Making Dreams Come True
The Stories Behind Our Story: Episode 4Join us as we uncover the remarkable endeavors of Chesapeake Public Schools in revolutionizing the educational landscape. Tune into this fascinating discussion with Dr. Kelli Jordan,...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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28:59
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Be a Hero!
Dr. Brooke Rudis and Meredith Sargol from Chesapeake Public Schools, step into the spotlight to shed light on the pervasive issue of bullying in our schools. With personal stories and professional experiences, they guide us through the murky de...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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32:42
#AttendanceMattersVA
School is back in session and have you ever wondered what it's like to juggle a multitude of responsibilities as a high school senior? Buckle up as we introduce Kiera Whiteman, a senior at Deep Creek High School and SCA president. Kiera give...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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27:28
New School Year, New Beginnings with Superintendent Dr. Jared Cotton
Hopefully, every school district has leaders who are passionate about learning and the success of their students. One such figure in Chesapeake Public Schools is Superintendent, Dr. Jared Cotton. In this episode, we get to know Dr. Cotton...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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24:53
The Stories Behind Our Story
Have you ever wondered about the untold stories and unseen faces that make up a successful school district? Your hosts, Matt Graham and Richie Babb, are excited to take you behind the scenes of Chesapeake Public Schools, one of Virginia's premi...
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Season 1
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Episode 0
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4:20
