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  • BPD3 Beyond The Bell Ep.12: Laura Cappozzo Speech Language Pathologist
    2026/03/02

    Summary

    In this episode of Beyond the Bell, Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Laura Cappozzo, a dedicated Speech Language Pathologist at Beach Park District 3. Laura shares her journey into the field of speech pathology, her experiences in education, and the importance of communication in student development. She discusses the collaborative culture within the district, the support for new staff, and the significance of vocabulary in education. The conversation also touches on work-life balance, personal connections, and the unique culture of Beach Park District 3 that fosters professional growth and appreciation among staff.

    #bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #bpd3district #SLP #Teachers

    Takeaways

    Laura Cappozzo has been a Speech Language Pathologist in Beach Park since 2006.

    She is involved in various committees including PBS and MTSS.

    SLPs work on speech sound disorders, language building, and comprehension.

    AAC devices help facilitate communication for students with speech challenges.

    Internships in both medical and educational settings guide SLPs' career paths.

    Collaboration among teachers and specialists is crucial for student success.

    Vocabulary is essential for comprehension and expression in education.

    Beach Park District 3 has a supportive culture for professional development.

    Mentorship is key for new clinicians entering the field.

    Personal connections and friendships enhance the work environment.

    Soundbites

    "Make a friend, be present."

    "Life happens, family is first."

    "I love my job. I love my kids."

    Timestamps:


    00:00 - Introduction to Laura’s 20-year journey in Beach Park District 3
    02:10 - What does an elementary speech-language pathologist do?
    04:16 - The training and internships that shaped Laura’s career
    08:08 - Transition from hospital to school-based speech therapy
    11:47 - Supporting classroom teachers' understanding of communication challenges
    14:49 - Insights into district culture and early career surprises
    18:12 - District's support for staff onboarding and mentorship programs
    22:39 - Advice for new teachers and clinicians in their first 90 days
    23:36 - Celebrating student successes and their profound impact on Laura’s work
    26:14 - Collaboration with the entire educational team
    28:54 - Continuous professional growth and district support for development
    30:51 - Personal stories of community, friendships, and district culture at Oak Crest
    34:25 - Theories behind district camaraderie and supported staff relationships
    36:22 - The balance of professional dedication and personal life
    37:39 - Highlighting staff, mentorship, and the district’s supportive environment
    41:17 - Handling life’s unexpected moments and district flexibility
    44:02 - The unique benefits of working in Beach Park District 3
    45:40 - The importance of authentic storytelling through the podcast
    47:09 - Fun questions: morning person, favorite games, concerts, and more
    54:02 - Personal passions, family, and hobbies
    58:56 - Final thoughts, appreciation, and encouragement for prospective staff

    Keywords

    Speech Language Pathology, Education, Beach Park District 3, Communication Challenges, Professional Development, Team Collaboration, Mentorship, Student Success, Work-Life Balance, Recruitment

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    不明
  • Beyond The Bell Ep.11: Bettina Golwitzer, Board Member and Parent
    2026/02/23

    Summary

    In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Bettina Golwitzer, a Board of Education member and HR professional, about her experiences in the Beach Park community. They discuss the importance of community engagement, the role of HR in education, and the impact of recognition on school culture. Bettina shares her journey as a parent and volunteer, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity and collaboration in fostering a thriving educational environment. The conversation also touches on future trends in education, conflict resolution, and the heart of the district being its people.

    #bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3family #bpd3podcast #bpd3district #teachers

    Takeaways

    Bettina has been a resident of Beach Park for 20 years.

    Community engagement is crucial for a thriving school environment.

    HR experience influences her perspective on school board decisions.

    Recognition of staff and students fosters a positive culture.

    AI is a significant trend that education must prepare for.

    Conflict resolution requires calmness and understanding both perspectives.

    Volunteering for small events can make a big impact.

    The heart of the district lies in its people and community.

    Inclusivity is essential for a thriving educational culture.

    Bettina aims to leave a lasting positive impact on the district.

    Titles

    HR in the CAR: A Community Conversation

    Building a Thriving Educational Environment

    sound bites

    "The people are the heart of our district."

    "I'm always here to listen."

    "I want to see other people be successful."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to HR in the CAR

    02:46 Community and Education Connection

    06:07 The Role of HR in Education

    08:53 Personal Experiences and Community Involvement

    11:31 Volunteer Spirit and School Activities

    14:32 The Importance of Inclusivity

    17:21 Navigating Challenges in Education

    20:38 The Future of Education and Workforce Trends

    23:31 Building Relationships and Communication

    26:18 Personal Wellness and Balance

    29:30 Legacy and Impact on the Community

    Keywords

    Beach Park, education, community, HR, school board, volunteer, recognition, conflict resolution, future trends, engagement

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    33 分
  • BPD3 Beyond The Bell Ep. 10: Charles Ongena Coordinator of Library and Media Services
    2026/02/16

    Keywords

    education, library services, digital citizenship, Beach Park District 3, teaching journey, educational technology, literacy, STEAM programs, school libraries, teacher support

    Summary

    In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Charles Ongena, the Coordinator of Library and Media Services at Beach Park District 3. They discuss Charles's journey in education, his experiences in the district, and the evolving role of libraries in supporting literacy and technology. Charles shares insights on digital citizenship, STEAM programs, and the unique aspects of Beach Park's libraries. He emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity and creativity in students while providing support to teachers. The conversation highlights the collaborative and innovative spirit of Beach Park District 3, encouraging educators to embrace the process of teaching and learning.

    Takeaways

    Charles Ongena's journey in education began with a job at the Forest Preserve.

    The importance of real-world applications of learning in education.

    Teaching is about following instincts and having fun.

    Libraries have evolved into hubs of learning and creativity.

    Digital citizenship is essential in today's educational landscape.

    STEAM programs are crucial for engaging students in learning.

    Beach Park District 3 supports innovative ideas and programs.

    The library is a resource for both students and staff.

    Embracing the process of teaching is key to success.

    Support and collaboration are vital in the educational community.

    #bpd3beyondthebell #bpd3podcast #bpd3family #bpd3district #teachers #teacherpodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

    02:18 Charles Ongena's Journey in Education

    09:23 Career Path and Experiences in Beach Park

    18:03 The Role of Coordinator of Library and Media Services

    20:06 Shout Out to Mrs. Ongena

    21:14 Understanding Library and Media Services

    24:52 Shout Out to the Library Staff

    25:06 How the Library is Organized

    26:19 How Many Books In The Library

    28:43 Middle School Shout Out

    31:06 What Makes the Beach Park Library Unique

    31:23 Unique Aspects of Beach Park Community and Libraries

    34:23 The Role of Libraries in Education

    35:35 Advice for Sparking Curiosity in the Library

    36:35 Shift In Library Space Utilization

    36:50 Sparking Curiosity and Dynamic Learning

    40:34 Innovative Resources and Technology in Libraries

    42:49 Future Vision for Library Media Centers

    44:06 Supporting Teachers and Collaboration

    47:58 The Pioneering Spirit of Beach Park District 3

    48:50 What Keeps Me in Beach Park

    49:44 Advice for Struggling Teachers

    50:58 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

    53:29 Books, eBooks, or Audio Books

    54:17 If I wasn't in the Library, I would've...

    55:16 What other than Books in my Library?

    56:08 Best Concert Experience

    57:02 Energy Boost for the Day

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    1 時間
  • BPD3 Beyond The Bell Ep.9: Traci Griffiths Director of Teaching and Learning
    2026/02/09

    Summary

    In this conversation, Traci provides valuable insights for teachers feeling overwhelmed by new educational demands. She emphasizes the importance of selecting a few key areas to focus on and mastering them, rather than trying to do everything at once. This approach not only alleviates stress but also fosters continuous improvement in teaching practices.

    Takeaways

    You don't have to do it all.

    Pick the right things and do them well.

    You will get better every year.

    Focus on what you can do well.

    Add stuff as you go.

    Focus on important things.

    Titles

    Overcoming Teacher Overwhelm

    Mastering the Art of Teaching

    Sound bites

    "You don't have to do it all."

    "Add stuff as you go."

    "Focus on important things."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Beach Park District 3 and Tracy Griffiths

    02:31 Tracy's Journey in Education

    06:10 Transitioning to Leadership Roles

    06:21 Scariest Part of Transitioning to Leadership

    09:41 The Role of Director of Teaching and Learning

    12:42 Director Duties

    13:14 Professional Development Challenges

    16:31 Community and Culture in Beach Park

    17:00 Why I Lead in BPD3

    19:51 Cohesiveness in Curriculum

    20:07 When the Teacher is Overwhelmed

    21:27 Teaching Spotlight

    23:12 Future Directions and Innovations

    26:50 What People Say about BPD3: Student Centered

    28:06 Opportunities for Teacher Growth

    30:03 Shout Out to Instructional Coaches

    31:45 The Role of Discretion in Coaching

    37:00 Lighthearted Quickfire Questions

    39:44 If I Could Travel Anywhere

    40:42 Best Concert I've Been To

    41:41 Pursuing Higher Education

    44:57 Purpose of the Podcast

    Keywords

    teaching advice, overwhelmed teachers, education strategies, quality teaching, teacher development

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    49 分
  • Beyond The Bell Ep.8: Sherri Ballard at Beach Park Middle School
    2026/02/02

    Summary

    In this conversation, the importance of patience and self-compassion for new teachers is emphasized. The speaker shares personal insights on navigating the challenges of starting a teaching career, highlighting that mistakes are part of the learning process and that embracing the journey is essential.



    Takeaways

    Be patient with yourself as a new teacher.

    Mistakes are part of the learning process.

    Teaching can be a beautiful mess.

    Self-compassion is crucial in education.

    Embrace the journey of becoming a teacher.

    Give yourself grace during challenging times.

    Support from peers can be invaluable.

    Every teacher's journey is unique.

    Learning from mistakes leads to growth.

    Teaching is a continuous learning experience.



    Sound bites

    "Be patient with yourself."

    "It's going to be a beautiful mess."

    "Give yourself some grace."



    Keywords

    education, teaching, advice, new teachers, patience, grace



    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Beyond the Bell Podcast

    02:06 Mrs. Sherry Ballard's Journey in Education

    03:31 What's been your teaching journey in BPMS?

    04:59 Middle School Students Explorer Journey

    05:52 Transitioning to Middle School Teaching

    07:49 When Did I know Teaching Was My Calling

    09:04 What Do You Love Most About Working in Education

    09:31 The Excitement of STEM Education

    09:46 The Vibe of Mrs. Ballard's Classroom

    12:04 Student Celebration

    12:49 How Do You Define a Successful Day in the Classroom

    13:14 Core Belief That Guides My Work

    13:18 Building a Supportive Community in Education

    13:57 Best Park of my BPMS Team!!

    14:35 Here's What Keeps Me in Beach Park

    15:08 What to Expect in BPD3

    16:38 Reflections on Growth and Change

    17:37 Coilleague Shout Out

    18:22 Advice for a New Teacher

    18:49 Advice for a Struggling Teacher

    19:43 Quick Fire Questions

    20:23 Personal Insights and Fun Facts

    23:22 Best Advice I've Every Received

    23:29 Best Concert I've Ever Attended

    24:01 Advice for New and Struggling Teachers

    25:13 Why I'm On Beyond The Bell

    27:53 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

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    28 分
  • Beyond the Bell: Special H.R. In the C.A.R. with Dr. Denise Wilcox; Superintendent of BPD3
    2026/01/29
    Summary

    In this engaging episode of "HR in the Car," Dr. Denise Wilcox shares her journey from Michigan to becoming the superintendent of Beach Park District 3. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, fostering a positive climate culture, and the district's vision for excellence. Dr. Wilcox emphasizes the value of feedback, the joy of learning, and the district's commitment to sparking curiosity and creating core memories for students.

    Keywords

    Dr. Denise Wilcox, Beach Park District 3, climate culture, education, feedback, curiosity, core memories, superintendent, HR in the Car, school excellence

    Takeaways

    • Building relationships is key to integrating new staff.
    • Positive climate culture is crucial for student growth.
    • Feedback is an opportunity for learning and improvement.
    • Curiosity should be encouraged in educational settings.
    • Dr. Wilcox's journey from teacher to superintendent.
    • The district's vision for Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence.
    • Importance of creating core memories in education.
    • Dr. Wilcox's passion for curriculum and instruction.
    • The role of leadership in fostering a supportive environment.
    • The joy of learning and its impact on students.

    Title Options

    • Building a Culture of Excellence with Dr. Denise Wilcox
    • From Teacher to Superintendent: Dr. Wilcox's Journey
    • The Power of Feedback in Education
    • Sparking Curiosity and Creating Core Memories
    • Beach Park District 3: A Vision for Excellence
    • Dr. Wilcox on Climate Culture and Student Growth
    • The Joy of Learning with Dr. Denise Wilcox
    • HR in the Car: Insights from Dr. Wilcox
    • Leadership and Learning in Beach Park District 3
    • Creating a Supportive Educational Environment

    Sound bites

    "Building relationships is key."

    "Climate culture makes all the difference."

    "Feedback is an opportunity to learn."

    "Curiosity should be encouraged."

    "Creating core memories for students."

    "The joy of learning is impactful."

    "Leadership fosters a supportive environment."

    "Vision for Blue Ribbon Schools."

    "Passion for curriculum and instruction."

    "From teacher to superintendent."

    Chapters

    • 00:00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    • 00:00:00 Dr. Wilcox's Origin Story
    • 00:00:00 Journey to Beach Park District 3
    • 00:00:00 Importance of Climate Culture
    • 00:00:00 Feedback and Learning
    • 00:00:00 Vision for Excellence
    • 00:00:01 Sparking Curiosity and Core Memories
    • 00:00:01 Conclusion and Future Plans
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    30 分
  • Beyond The Bell Ep.7: Matt Russell at Oak Crest Elementary
    2026/01/19

    Summary

    In this episode of Beyond the Bell, host Gabriel Cappozzo welcomes Matt Russell, a dedicated special education teacher at Oak Crest Elementary. Matt shares his journey into education, revealing that he initially pursued a career in finance before realizing his true calling was in teaching. He discusses his experiences in the CABS program, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive and engaging environment for his students. Matt also highlights the collaborative culture at Oak Crest, where he feels a strong sense of community among staff and students alike.

    As the conversation unfolds, Matt talks about his ongoing pursuit of a master's degree in educational leadership, expressing his aspirations for future leadership roles within the district. He offers valuable advice for educators considering furthering their education, encouraging them to take the leap and pursue their goals. The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion about the impact of teaching, the importance of asking for help, and the rewarding moments that come from witnessing students' growth and success.

    Takeaways

    "Every day is a different challenge. It just kind of keeps me coming back."

    "If you're thinking about doing it, take the leap and go for it."

    "Trust your gut. If you feel it's the right decision, you need to do it."

    "There's always someone willing to help you."

    "The biggest advice I got was to ask for help."

    Titles

    Empowering Education: Matt Russell's Journey in Special Education

    From Finance to Teaching: Matt Russell's Inspiring Path

    Sound bites

    "Every day is a different challenge."

    "Take the leap and go for it."

    "Trust your gut."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Matt Russell

    01:23 Matt's Teaching Journey and Background

    04:42 Pursuing Further Education and Leadership Goals

    08:57 The Joys of Teaching Special Education

    15:19 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment

    20:14 Support and Growth in Beach Park District

    20:45 The Importance of Support in Education

    21:34 Shining a Light on Teaching Assistants

    23:12 Tuition Reimbursement and Professional Growth

    24:46 Advice for New Teachers

    25:44 Overcoming Challenges in the First Years

    28:41 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

    33:40 Closing Thoughts and Community Engagement

    Keywords

    special education, Oak Crest Elementary, Beach Park District, teacher journey, educational leadership, CABS program, teacher advice, community support, teaching philosophy, student success

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    34 分
  • Beyond The Bell Ep.6: Allison Olenek; Sp.Ed. Teacher at Oak Crest Elementary
    2026/01/12

    Summary

    In this episode of Beach Park District 3's podcast, host Gabriel Cappozzo interviews Allison Olenek, a dedicated special education teacher at Oak Crest Elementary. They discuss Allison's journey in education, her transition from early childhood to K-1 CABS, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing a master's degree while balancing family life. Allison shares valuable advice for new educators, emphasizing the importance of support from colleagues and the joy of seeing students succeed. The conversation highlights the strong community within Beach Park District 3 and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal more about Allison's personal interests and beliefs.

    Takeaways

    Allison Olenek has been a teacher for 10 years at Oak Crest Elementary.

    She transitioned from early childhood education to K-1 CABS to meet changing student needs.

    Pursuing a master's degree was challenging but rewarding, supported by her family.

    New educators should lean on their colleagues for support and guidance.

    Success in education is defined by students coming to school happy and leaving happy.

    Building relationships with students is crucial for their independence and growth.

    The community at Beach Park District 3 is supportive and engaged.

    Allison emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment with students.

    Education has always been a part of Allison's life, influenced by her family.

    Allison believes that anyone can be a leader, regardless of their title.

    Sound bites

    "Just do it, honestly. Just keep going."

    "Lean on the people that you work with."

    "The people is what keeps me here."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Allison Olenek

    03:02 Allison's Journey in Education

    05:55 Transitioning to K-1 CABS

    09:00 Pursuing a Master's Degree

    11:47 Advice for New Educators

    14:55 The Importance of Support

    17:52 Defining Success in Education

    21:00 The Joy of Teaching

    23:45 Community and Colleagues

    25:53 Rapid Fire Questions

    29:11 Closing Thoughts

    Keywords

    education, special education, Beach Park District 3, teaching, K-1 CABS, master's degree, support, community, success, advice for teachers

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    31 分