You Matter Here: Recent Episodes
MTCS
You Matter Here, is a Minnesota Transitions Charter School Podcast where we elevate the voices of our people, dig deeper into our big ideas and explore how we show up for ourselves and each other in order to make magic happen.
I am your host, Wendy Lorenz-Walraven, the Director of Equity and Diversity here at MTCS. My hope is that as we spend time together we will have an opportunity to explore 3 key questions: Who am I? Who are we? And Who are we to each other? As it is the intersection of these questions that informs the assumptions we make, drives our behavior and impacts our relationships, with ourselves and with others.
Coya Night Pipe shares her passion and experiences as MTCS Indigenous Education Coordinator. Her work honors young people and the intersection of their identities--supporting indigenous students and illuminating the depth, beauty and relevance of the indigenous experience for all students in the district. She believes in the power of inspiring each other to dream big.
Liz, Hannah and Wendy talk about the importance of 9th grade and how setting up success in 9th grade is the number one factor in graduation and high school success.
Wendy is joined by Jill Larson and Marty Lukaszewski in this episode of You Matter Here. They discuss a variety of things around student choice, student voice and creativity. Aspects often overlooked in the realm of online education.
In this episode listeners will hear from Bill Glenz (Director of MN Virtual Schools) and Alyssa Sherkenbach (Director of MN Virtual School Elementary) about MTCS's new online K-5 program.
In this episode Wendy talks with the Minnesota Transitions Charter School Executive Director Shawn Fondow about his journey, successes and challenges he is facing in the educational world.
Wendy, Bill and Lorelie talk about the ins and outs of online education. Specifically how online education works and the different types of online education such as part-time options. Thank you for tuning in to episode 7 of You Matter Here.
Wendy and Courtney spend some time talking about the past, present and future of MTCS. Specifically, how the social worker position first started at MTCS with Courtney, and how she has seen the department grow and develop over time. We also hear from a few students and some of their experience. Thank you for tuning in to episode 6 of You Matter Here.
Wendy is joined in the studio by Brett Albin and three students who share about their recent winter adventure to the boundary waters. Breathtaking shooting stars, startling plunges in the frozen lake and epic dog sledding were among some of the memories this group shares in episode 5 of You Matter Here.
In this episode, Wendy talks with three P.E.A.S.E. Academy students. They share their journeys through recovery, their hardships and their successes and advice.
In this episode, Wendy talks with Catie Locker, the Dean of Students at P.E.A.S.E. Academy. Catie shares her journey through recovery and how she interfaces with youth who are struggling and succeeding.
In this episode, Wendy spends time with Rufus Brown, the Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at P.E.A.S.E. Academy. Rufus shares about how he came to P.E.A.S.E., some of his experiences at the school, and some insight and resources for parents.
Hello and welcome to You Matter Here, our Minnesota Transitions Charter School Podcast where we elevate the voices of our people, dig deeper into our big ideas and explore how we show up for ourselves and each other in order to make magic happen.
I am your host, Wendy Lorenz-Walraven, the Director of Equity and Diversity here at MTCS. My hope is that as we spend time together we will have an opportunity to explore 3 key questions: Who am I? Who are we? And Who are we to each other? As it is the intersection of these questions that informs the assumptions we make, drives our behavior and impacts our relationships, with ourselves and with others.
Our first guest is Michael (Mike?) Durchslag, the Director of P.E.A.S.E. Academy, which stands for Peers Enjoying A Sober Education. Our Recovery High School is the oldest recovery high school in the United States and has been serving students since February 1989. P.E.A.S.E. Academy is a place where your recovery stands a chance. Michael, thank you so much for being here with us today and I hope that this is the start of many beautiful conversations about how we support young people and adults alike.