Education Matters: Recent Episodes
Dr. Randy Trani
There’s something special happening in the shop at Su Valley High School—and it’s more than just a car build.
In this episode of Education Matters, we headed north to Talkeetna to meet with student members of the Hot Rod Club to talk about their ongoing project: a custom 1930 Ford Model A built from the ground up. From welding and fabrication to engine work and problem-solving, these students are gaining real-world skills that go far beyond the classroom.
What started as a small after-school effort has grown into a multi-year project powered by student dedication, mentorship, and a passion for learning by doing. Along the way, students are exploring career pathways, building confidence, and creating something they can truly be proud of.
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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
What inspires students to join JROTC—and what keeps them coming back? In this episode of Education Matters, we hear directly from cadet leaders at Colony High School as they describe a student-led program built on service, leadership, and belonging. Cadets talk about their weekly routines, competitions, community service, and the moments—both funny and meaningful—that shaped who they are today. Whether students are interested in the military or not, JROTC offers real-world skills, confidence, and a second home for students in grades 8–12.
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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
In this episode of Education Matters, we visit Palmer High School to explore their long-standing International Baccalaureate (IB) program — one of the most rigorous and rewarding paths a student can take.
Host John Notes sits down with IB Coordinator McKenzie Moore and students Oscar and Teagan, who share what it’s like to take six or seven IB classes, balance academics with sports, and create meaningful community impact through their CAS Project — including their “Trick or Trot” fun run fundraiser for early childhood education. 🏃♀️🍬
Hear how these students are preparing not just for college, but for life — building confidence, creativity, and global awareness along the way.
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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
🎬✨ In this episode of Education Matters, we sit down with students Liam and Kaya, along with teacher Rhett Buchanan from Teeland Middle School, to talk about their incredible Media Skills class. From producing weekly newscasts to creating a full music video called Let It Flow—these students are learning real-world storytelling, editing, and collaboration skills that will last a lifetime.
Catch their inspiring story and see how Teeland students are raising the bar for creativity and excellence!
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
New episode: students share first-hand stories from the Palmer–Saroma exchange—how they were selected, standout cultural moments (from spotless streets to less phone time), and how the trip grew their confidence and independence. They even share advice for peers thinking about applying next year.
If you enjoy the show, follow and leave a quick rating to help others find Education Matters.
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
In this joyful and heartwarming episode of Education Matters, host John Notestine sits down with a group of enthusiastic students from Big Lake Elementary School as they prepare to perform for the MSBSD School Board. From favorite teachers and math lessons to choir practice and musical games, these students share what makes their school such a special place to learn and grow.
🎶 Highlight Alert: Don’t miss the impromptu performance at the end—Big Lake’s student choir brings the energy with a surprise live rendition of a pop favorite!
What you'll hear in this episode:
- Students reflect on their favorite parts of school
- Insight into what they’re learning (comparing fractions, dividing decimals & patience!)
- Behind-the-scenes fun from choir rehearsals
- A musical game that doubles as vocal training
- An unexpected live performance full of Big Lake pride
Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of student voice, this episode will leave you smiling.
👉 Subscribe and follow for more student-led stories from across the Mat-Su Borough School District.
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
On this episode of Education Matters, we’re diving into the incredible world of SkillsUSA with a group of talented students from Colony High School! 🏅🔧✨
These students are sharpening their skills in welding, technical drafting, public speaking, and more—all while preparing for intense competitions that could shape their futures. Hear how SkillsUSA is helping them build real-world expertise, gain confidence, and develop the professional skills needed for life beyond high school.
From welding sculptures to nailing math competitions, their stories of hard work and perseverance will inspire you! Tune in now and discover why SkillsUSA is a game-changer for career and technical education.
Listen in as they discuss:
- ✅ The hands-on projects they’re tackling
- ✅ How SkillsUSA is preparing them for the workforce
- ✅ The valuable life skills they’ve gained—beyond just their trade
- ✅ Their best competition stories and what’s next for them
💡 Inspired by this episode? If you know a student who could benefit from SkillsUSA, share this episode with them!
📢 Join the conversation! Comment below and tell us: What’s the most valuable skill you’ve learned in school or your career?
⭐️ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more people discover the great things happening in our schools!
If you’re a student, parent, or educator interested in career and technical education, this episode is a must-listen!
🔗 Learn more about SkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/
🔗 Mat-Su Borough School District: https://matsuk12.us
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
In this episode of Education Matters, we explore how Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are preparing students for success beyond high school. Host John Nelson sits down with student leaders from Educators Rising and Business Professionals of America (BPA) to discuss the skills they’re gaining, the competitions they’re tackling, and the impact of these programs on their futures.
Want to know how these programs are shaping the next generation of educators and business leaders? Tune in now!
EducationMatters #CTSO #BPA #EducatorsRising #FutureLeaders #CareerReady
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
In this episode of Education Matters, we dive into the magic of Hadestown, the latest production by Colony High School’s drama department. Host John Notestine sits down with cast members Finn Gagnon (Orpheus), Hazel Price (Eurydice), and Haley Willis (Persephone) to discuss the show’s unique blend of Greek mythology and New Orleans jazz and what it takes to put on a large production.
Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at a must-see performance! Get your tickets before they sell out! 🎶🎭
Hadestown #EducationMatters #MatSuSchools #ColonyHighDrama #TheaterLife #BehindTheScenes
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
John Notestine interviews students from the Mat-Su Middle College School and ANSEP, the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program. Both programs offer students dual credit for high school and college. In this episode, students talk about their experience and offer insight to prospective students on what to expect in these rigorous programs.
Show Information
🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.
📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12
📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us
Associate Superintendent of Instruction Dr. Reese Everett discusses the Alaska's Safe Children's Act, transportation in the MSBSD, and the implementation and credit options in the 4Cs.
Dr. Randy Trani and Deputy Superintendent Luke Fulp discuss the Mat-Su Borough School District's budget and budget development process for next year.
Credit recovery programs are so important during COVID. Check out this episode of Education Matters to hear Dr Trani interview Burchell HS Administrators Shelli Lincoln and Dan Hietala talk about the ABLE program and how it works, where it is and how MSBSD families can access this critical program.
Dr. Randy Trani and Alaska's chief medical officer, Dr. Anne Zink, discuss the recent surge of Covid-19 cases in Alaska and the Mat-Su Borough School District, our ability to reduce the Covid risk factor, and how to combat Covid fatigue.
The Mat-Su Borough School District is the largest District in the state of Alaska currently open for in-school learning. Superintendent Randy Trani, Deputy Superintendent of Business Services Luke Fulp, and Public Information Officer Jillian Morrissey discuss how MSBSD has made in-person instruction possible in covid times and what the District has learned during the process.
Dr. Randy Trani and Associate Superintendents of Instruction Justin Ainsworth and DeeDee Hanes examine the possibility and implementation of the AP for all initiative in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District.
Dr. Randy Trani is joined by Associate Superintendents of Instruction Justin Ainsworth and Tracy Pederson to discuss remote learning in the Mat-Su Borough School District.
Dr. Randy Trani and Jillian Morrissey discuss what school will look like this year for Mat-Su Borough School District students.