In this episode, Miles Azzeh and Sharon Burns highlight key moments from around Lansing USD 469, including an employee spotlight, district-wide appreciation efforts, updates on accreditation, and student reflections.

The employee spotlight features Mr. Tom Cretors, a social studies teacher at Lansing Middle School and assistant high school football coach. Known for his strong relationships with students and staff, Tom previously worked managing a food pantry, community garden, and homeless shelter in Chicago. He’s also known for supporting others, having nominated Brandy Hamilton for Teacher of the Year.

The episode also acknowledges the recent Staff and Teacher Appreciation Week. Lansing Educational Foundation and Andrew Cameron provided donuts from Donutology for every staff member across the district. The hosts express gratitude to all district staff for their hard work and dedication.

The final District Leadership Team (DLT) meeting of the year is also recapped. It focused on preparing the KESA accreditation action plan for submission. Miles shares how they mixed up groups for collaboration, discussed survey data, and finalized their accreditation plans. The work was later presented at the most recent board meeting.

The episode wraps up with student voices. Several students share their favorite things they’ve learned this year, such as fractions, ancient civilizations, and ELA job descriptions.

The episode concludes with a reminder to stay connected via the district website and mobile app. Only one episode remains for the season.

Click here for the transcript.

In this episode of the Lion Pride-Cast, Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing) spotlight the power of positivity, creative instruction, and community engagement across Lansing USD 469.

Employee Spotlight:
Mrs. Kim Schlereth, a SPED teacher at Lansing High School, is celebrated for her positive spirit, deep student connections, and advocacy. Known for her warmth and encouragement, she’s described as someone who truly cheers students on—"You've got this. I'll forever be cheering you on."

Academic Spotlight:
Laurie Holden, fourth-grade teacher, takes an innovative approach to state assessment prep by transforming a whiteboard wall into a vibrant ELA and math graffiti art review. Her creative, student-driven method brings energy and engagement to learning.

District Update – Site Council Launch:
The district held its first District-Level Site Council meeting of the year, featuring parent, staff, and student representatives from each school. The discussion focused on communication through the Rooms app, expanding CTE offerings (such as CNA and potential firefighting programs), and the district’s KESA accreditation progress. Student reps Matthew Bone (7th grade) and Jadyn Bollin (11th grade) were highlighted for their insightful participation.

Staff Voice:
Klinton Brown, IT technician and key support for the virtual academy’s iPad management, shares why he loves working in Lansing: the opportunity to contribute to student learning and collaborate with a great team. His wife, Sarah Dametz, and father-in-law, Jeff Dametz, also work in the district—making it a true family affair!

Stay Connected:
Visit www.usd469.net or download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app to stay informed on all district news and future podcast episodes.

In this episode of the Lion Pride-Cast, Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing) share exciting updates from around the Lansing USD 469 community, with a focus on celebrating staff accomplishments, innovative classroom practices, and district-level progress.

Employee Spotlight:
Mrs. Becky Wecas, middle school counselor and former literature teacher, is recognized for her 13 years of service and her efforts to introduce career exploration programs for students. Her work reflects the district’s commitment to the Whole Child Approach to Learning.

Academic Spotlight:
First-year sixth-grade math teacher Josie Nelson is spotlighted for her engaging scavenger hunt lesson on one-step equations. Students were energized, focused, and full of praise for their teacher, showing how Josie has quickly become a standout educator in her first year.

District Update – KESA Accreditation:
Lansing USD 469 is in the final stages of its Kansas Education Systems Accreditation (KESA) renewal. The district leadership team has created strong action plans focused on state priorities like standards alignment, balanced assessment, structured literacy, and high-quality instruction. During a recent peer review with Piper and Louisburg, Lansing’s team was praised for its preparation and collaboration. A final submission to the state is planned following the May 7 District Leadership Team meeting.

Student Voice:
High school sophomore Chase Lago reflects on an English class project about societal views on beauty, sharing how it challenged him to see the world differently.

Stay Connected:
Visit www.usd469.net or download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app to stay updated on district news and future podcast episodes.

In this special recognition-themed episode of the Lion Pride-Cast, hosts Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing) celebrate the amazing staff making a difference every day in Lansing USD 469:

Employee Spotlight:
Aleya Baker, first-year second-grade teacher at Lansing Elementary School, is recognized for her outstanding work with students and for building strong relationships with colleagues and families. A parent and teacher in the district, Aleya is already making a meaningful impact.

District Recognition – Staff of the Year:
The district proudly announces its 2025 Teachers and Educational Support Professionals of the Year:

• Cheryl Sander, Elementary Teacher of the Year – Known for her positivity, leadership in the PTA, and commitment to students and families at LES.

• Brandy Hamilton, Secondary Teacher of the Year – A dedicated middle school ELA teacher who also mentors, leads PLCs, coaches sports, and hosts a student teacher.

• Hallie Hughes, Educational Support Professional of the Year – An MTSS aide and member of the first Registered Teacher Apprenticeship cohort, Hallie is known for her drive to grow and connect with students.

• Victoria Fevurly, Educational Support Professional of the Year – Leads the SBS recovery room at the middle school with calm and purpose, helping students reset and thrive.

Special Shoutout – Mariah Neff:
2024 Secondary Teacher of the Year Mariah Neff was recently honored at a state luncheon for her continued excellence in special education at Lansing High School.

Staff Voice:
Laura Totleben, District Data Coordinator, closes out the episode by sharing what she loves about working in Lansing USD 469—including the small-town feel and the sense of family among staff.

Click here for the transcript.

In this 10th episode of season three, Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing) celebrate the return from spring break with a packed episode full of meaningful district highlights:

Employee Spotlight:
Jessica James, Behavior Room Teacher at Lansing Intermediate School, is honored for her deep compassion, innovative strategies, and unwavering commitment to supporting students where they are—both academically and behaviorally.

Academic Spotlight:
Lansing’s second-grade team hosted a creative and immersive Camp Read-a-Lot day! Students read inside tents, explored themed stations, wrote book reviews, and wrapped up the experience with s’mores—all designed to build enthusiasm for reading and create lasting memories.

District Update – Recruitment & Retention:
Miles and Sharon reflect on their visit to the K-State Student Union, where they joined a statewide discussion on Kansas’s teacher shortage (over 2,200 openings) and the importance of retention strategies like trust, strong leadership, and innovation in school culture. They also highlight how principals play a key role in whether teachers stay in a district.

Student Voice:
The episode features Emma Johnson, a valedictorian and future student teacher, who shares her passion for lifelong learning and her desire to work in a collaborative, well-rounded district. Her advice on “reframing” negative thoughts leaves a lasting impression.

Stay Connected:
Visit www.usd469.net or download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app to stay informed about district news and upcoming podcast episodes.

In this episode of the Lion Pride-Cast, hosts Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns(Director of Communications & Marketing) return from spring break to share important district updates and celebrations:

Employee Spotlight:
Meet Dr. Ben Sutherlin, Lansing High School's new assistant principal. Dr. Sutherlin brings positivity, leadership, and a passion for student success, as highlighted in his inspiring message to students: "Be present. Be responsible. Be at your best."

Academic Spotlight:
Lansing USD 469 was proudly represented at KU’s inaugural Center for Reimagining Education Showcase. Middle school teachers Alisha Holyfield, Amanda Thomas, and Josh Yoakam—led by Principal Brooks Jenkins—shared how they are using AI to personalize learning and co-teach based on student needs and interests.

District Update – State Testing:
State assessments have begun across grades 3–11, with customized testing schedules at each building. Parents are encouraged to check communications from principals and ensure students are well-rested and ready. Even virtual learners are testing at the district office—with snacks included!

Staff Sound Bite:
Drew Allen, a Lansing graduate and the district’s Maintenance Supervisor, shares why he enjoys working in Lansing: “The people are what make it extremely special.” Shoutout to his parents, Don and Missy Allen, who also work in the district!

Stay Connected:
Visit www.usd469.net or download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app to stay updated on the latest district news and future podcast episodes.

In this episode of the Lion Pride-Cast, hosts Miles Azzeh (Director of Teaching & Learning) and Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing) bring you the latest district highlights, including:

Employee Spotlight: Ms. Lisa Robichaux, an intervention aide at Lansing Intermediate School, is recognized for her dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to supporting students. Fun fact: she refuses to wear socks now that her parents can’t make her!

Academic Spotlight: Ms. Heather Herrig’s third-grade class placed 2nd in the entire state in the Sunflower State Sprint on IXL, answering an average of 1,939 questions correctly per student! Their hard work and sportsmanship earned them a well-deserved pizza party.

District-Level Update: The Lansing School District is moving forward with a comprehensive K-12 math curriculum adoption. A dedicated team of teachers and administrators carefully vetted and piloted new resources to align with state standards and district goals. Next steps include professional development and finalizing funding plans.

Student Voices: Beckett, Brooklyn, and MJ share their favorite learning experiences this year, from math-based murder mystery activities to exploring ancient civilizations in social studies.

Stay Connected! Don’t forget to download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app for updates and follow the podcast to keep up with the latest district news.

Host: Sharon Burns (Director of Communications & Marketing)

Guest Co-Host: Ascendra Donald (Director of Student Services)
Special Guest: Superintendent Marty Kobza

Employee Spotlight: Lisa Hope (Lead Parent Educator, Parents as Teachers Program)

• Celebrated for seven years in the district, plus years of volunteer service.
• Supports early childhood families, ensuring children are ready for kindergarten.
• Active in PTA, Site Council, and the Special Education Advisory Council.

Inclusion Awareness Spirit Week (March 31 – April 4)

• Themed around “The Future is So Much More Inclusive” to promote diversity, belonging, and kindness.
• Activities include:
• Collaboration with special education teams and art teachers to foster inclusion awareness.

Youth Art Month & District Art Showcase

• Featuring student-created food trucks at the elementary level.
• Shoutouts to art teachers across the district for their dedication.

District Growth & Facilities Planning

• Superintendent Marty Kobza discussed.

What Makes Lansing Special?

• Ascendra Donald: It’s the people—staff, students, and families create a strong, welcoming culture.
• Superintendent Kobza: A culture of excellence, where students and staff set high expectations and perform above state averages.

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Stay Connected!

• Visit www.usd469.net for updates.
• Download the Lansing USD 469 mobile app to stay informed.
• Listen & subscribe on most streaming platforms and leave a review!

Looking forward to Miles’ return next episode! Thanks for listening!