Over four thousand West Ada graduates crossed the stage last month, ready to begin their next adventure. In this episode of the West Ada Podcast, we spotlight two exceptional graduates who also took the microphone as student speakers at their commencement ceremonies: Madison Kelly of Renaissance High School and James Campbell of Owyhee High School.

Madison and James share what it was like to represent their classmates, the challenges and rewards of delivering a graduation speech, and the teachers who helped shape their journeys. Their stories reflect the resilience, growth, and promise of the Class of 2026—and offer an inspiring look at what comes next.

🎓 Watch Madison's graduation speech: https://youtube.com/live/ckOpq6ZZsgI at 45:15
🎓 Watch James' graduation speech: https://youtube.com/live/SrJcgkUEK80 at 53:00

Join us for a conversation about leadership, gratitude, perseverance, and the educators who make a lasting impact on students' lives.

In this edition of the West Ada Podcast, we’re diving into summer school and exploring how summer learning can make a lasting impact for students. We’re joined by longtime summer school teacher Holly Clayton, and Katie’s son Blake shares the student perspective on staying engaged during the summer months. With registration closing May 21, now is the perfect time to learn more about the benefits, opportunities, and value of summer learning.

Plus, in our Student Pulse segment, we’re spotlighting Mountain View High School and the incredible things happening with the Mavericks. Horns up! 🤘

Want to learn more about Stinky Sneaker? Watch here: https://youtu.be/hCw4YqmSRF8

Interested in VIP Prom? Check it out here: https://youtu.be/DwToRObMPyc

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so you never miss an episode.

If you’re a parent considering Renaissance High School, or an educator exploring ways to improve student achievement, academic success, and peer tutoring programs, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🏫 Renaissance is the top ranked high school in Idaho, and one key to that success is its powerful peer tutoring model. Over spring break, a team of students and staff attended the Secondary School Writing Centers Association (SSWCA) Conference, gaining new strategies to support student learning and writing skills.

🎙️ In this episode, we hear from Dany and Brannia—student leaders and peer tutors at the Lighthouse Tutoring Center. They share their experiences from the conference and talk about the impact of peer-to-peer learning, academic support, and asking for help in a rigorous school environment.

✨ Their insights highlight how student leadership, collaboration, and tutoring programs can drive real results.

👉 Tune in to learn how Renaissance is supporting college readiness, student growth, and academic excellence.

🔗 Learn more about peer tutoring at Renaissance here:
🔗 Learn more about the Secondary School Writing Centers Association (SSWCA) here:

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