We Are Ankeny

Let's Talk About... In Step & In Sync, The Sound of Ankeny

Ankeny Community School District — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

You hear the music. You feel the energy. Ankeny’s band directors, Scott Hook, Jennifer Williams, Janelle Hook, and Kelly Weber, share stories from marching band and color guard to the full instrumental music experience. In our latest podcast, it’s a conversation about confidence, leadership, and student growth.

Let's Talk About... After the bell rings, summer starts here.

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:10:02 -0500

Madisen Gaskin, Ankeny Schools' Family & Community Engagement Manager, brings together guests from the Kirkendall Library, Ankeny Parks & Recreation, and the Uptown Ankeny Association to share real ideas on ways kids and families can stay learning, active, and connected this summer.

Advancing The Vision, A message from Dr. Pruitt (March 2026)

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:57:09 -0500

Curious about how Ankeny plans for a bright future? Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt’s March update dives into school finance and budget planning. In just under 5 minutes, get the latest on how we’re working to support every student and school. Watch now!

Let's Talk About... Potential To Purpose: Stepping Into Leadership

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:47:21 -0500

Dr. Erick Pruitt sits down with local non-profit leaders Amy Ratekin and Ako Abdul-Samad. From powerful personal stories to practical advice, this conversation explores how belonging, support, & courage help turn potential into purpose.

Let's Talk About... If you Build It, They Will Park

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:20:14 -0600

Big changes are coming this spring at Northview MS! 🚧 We’re adding 178 new parking spots for Northview and Ankeny Stadium, and getting ready for the Innovative Secondary Center. Guests include: Dr. Darin Haack, Asst Superintendent, J.D. Hunter, Northview Middle School Principal, and Mike Maddalozzo, Director of Operations for Ankeny Schools. They will share updates and answer your questions about the changes you'll see starting soon.

Let's Talk About... 2026 Action Teams Kick-Off

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:54:35 -0600

Recently, our Ankeny Schools' Action Team Committees launched important work focused on the future of learning in our district. On the podcast, we’re joined by educators Heidi Reichart, a middle school computer science teacher, and Mike Mertz, career exploration development teacher at Orbis. They serve on the 9–12 Programming Action Team and share the work ahead.

Let's Talk About... Demystifying ISave 529 & FAFSA

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 10:36:26 -0600

Life after high school includes understanding how to pay for it. So, let's talk about FAFSA and ISAVE 529 with guests, Alicia Callannan, deputy treasurer for the State of Iowa, Erick Danielson of ICAN Succeed, and Lauren Riley, an Ankeny parent sharing her experience planning for the future of her three children.

Let's Talk About...Understanding Special Education

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:16:12 -0600

Starting school can bring questions, especially when your child needs extra support. Hear directly from the leaders who guide special education across our district and in their school buildings. Joining Dr. Pruitt are Nancy Lehman, Director of Special Education; Michael Schweinberg, Associate Principal at Centennial High School, and Chelsey Schroeder, Assistant Principal at Crocker Elementary School in Ankeny. IA.

Let's Talk About...The Fastest Minds In The Room

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:50:02 -0600

These students think fast, and today they’re talking even faster. Dr. Pruitt hosts Quiz Bowl team members for a conversation full of laughs and strategy. Guests: Eli Pattee, William Peterson, Nolan Gentry, Gabriella Williams, and Coach Mr. Nathan Coombes.

Let's Talk About... Ankeny Schools' Reading Revolution

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 13:57:01 -0600

A new way of teaching. A renewed love for reading. A revolution in how students learn. Listen in as the Literacy Leadership team explains evidence-based "The Science of Reading", the “why” behind Ankeny’s Reading Revolution, and what it means for students in every classroom.

Student Takeover: Heritage Elementary Edition

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:02:13 -0500

Heritage Elementary students stepped in as podcast hosts and put Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt in the hot seat. From “road trip or airplane?” to “graphic novel or chapter book?” these Hot Takes led to fun debates, laughs, and even a few surprises.

Let's Talk About... G.O. Bond- You Have Questions!

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:26:15 -0500

Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt has a Q&A session with Dr. Darin Haack, Samantha Aukes, and Eric Brown. They tackle questions sent in by community members about the $130 million G.O. Bond from why the funds won't be used to increase teacher salaries, to how passing the bond directly impacts future grade reconfiguration. Real questions—and real answers—about the implications of what passing/not passing the bond means for Ankeny’s schools.

Let's Talk About Making the Middle Work: Secretary Tips for Grades 6-9

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:30:17 -0500

Ankeny’s middle school secretaries are more than front office staff—they’re navigators. Host Sarah Murphy talks with Jill Vandeloo (Northview MS) and Renee Kester (Parkview MS) about what makes these years unique, how the student–front office relationship shifts , and the introduction of ParentSquare to the District.

Let's Talk About... Building Secretaries: Forms, Facts & First Day Feels

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:39:54 -0500

We're kicking off 25-26 with the TRUE multitasking heroes of the elementary buildings - our secretaries! Join host Sarah Murphy as she chats with Emily Marusiak (Abbie Grove), Jessica Ponto (Terrace Learning Center), Missy Butcher (Prairie Trail), and Becky Like (Ashland Ridge).

From student records to front office smiles, hear what they do to make the first week run smoothly, and how families, visitors & volunteers can help.

Let's Talk About... How G.O. Bonds Benefit Student Activities

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Are you curious about how the 2025 G.O. Bond benefits your student's activities? Activities Directors Mike Bakker (AHS) and Nate Lingren (CHS) are on our latest podcast! They discuss the positive impact the bond will have on stage technology, fine art classroom expansions, and relief for overcrowded spaces with athletic performance centers.

Listen to us on your favorite podcast streaming service or directly from our website, ankenyschools.org

Let's Talk About... The Student Voice Symposium

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:45:26 -0500

Ankeny Schools is committed to building the next generation of leaders. Today's guests, students Josalie Buban, Quincee Hansen, Cherop Kipruto, Zina Ishibwammi, and Kayci Piva, with Northview Middle School team member Renee Potts, share their experience at the Student Voice Symposium, where they and 50 other Ankeny high school and middle school students built on their advocacy, civic engagement, and other leadership skills at an event hosted by the West Des Moines Community School District.

G.O. Bond Defined (10-Year Academic & Facility Plan Series)

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 28 May 2025 15:51:39 -0500

Dr. Pruitt breaks down the G.O. (General Obligation) Bond. He and his guests explain the process of getting the bond on the ballot for a vote, and the academic and facility school projects it will pay for. Learn about the rules surrounding bonds, including what school officials can and can't say in support of the bond, and how the funds are required to be used. It's a great way to understand how Ankeny Schools plans for the future.

Let's Talk About... How Schools are Funded, Ep. 2 (10-Year Academic & Facility Plan Series)

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 09 May 2025 15:19:36 -0500

This episode breaks down how our public school funding works — where the money comes from and how we’re allowed to budget those funds. As Ankeny Schools collects petition signatures for a 2025 General Obligation (G.O.) Bond, Dr. Pruitt, CFO Eric Brown, and Chief Communications Officer Samantha Aukes as they explain why it’s never as simple as sharing the bottom line. For more information, visit AnkenySchools.org

Let's Talk About... The Big Picture, Ep. 1 (10-Year Academic & Facility Plan Series)

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:31:09 -0500

Have you heard of Ankeny School's Long-Range 10-Year Academic and Facility Plan? Get the big picture in this first episode of a new series on this plan with Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt and Assistant Superintendents Dr. Amy Dittmar and Dr. Darin Haack. Know why it matters and what’s ahead. Future episodes will cover school funding, proposed facilities, the General Obligation Bond, and more.

Stay tuned & Stay informed.

Learning Series: Nourishing Schools... Student Volunteers

Ankeny Community School District — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0500

It's the final installment of the Nourishing Schools series. Dr. Pruitt finds out nothing is off-topic when you have 9th graders on the mic. Brandon, Destinee, and Aniyah prove that giving back is not just about building resumes and share what brought them to volunteer at the Northview Middle School food pantry and what motivates them to continue.

Let's Talk About PreK, TK, Kindergarten & Building a Foundation

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:16:32 -0500

Preschool, Transitional Kindergarten, and kindergarten are the topics in this episode. Joining Dr. Pruitt are Sheila Schmidt, Principal of Terrace Learning Center Preschool; Tara Owen, Executive Director of Elementary Education for Ankeny Schools; and Kelli Olson Babcock, a dedicated transitional kindergarten teacher in the Ankeny School District as they answer the questions they get from parents the most and provide valuable information about each of the programs and the difference between them.

Let's Talk About It... From Student to Staff

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0600

If you are or know someone preparing for their first job in education, you can't afford to miss this podcast! Kevin Biggs - Principal, Southview Middle School, Kristin Barber - Principal, Northeast Elementary School, and Justin Mohr - Asst. Director Human Resources are Ankeny Schools administrators actively involved in the hiring process and sharing valuable insights with host Dr. Erick Pruitt about the pitfalls to avoid and best practices to master in the race to get that first teaching, school counseling, or education social worker job.

Let's Talk About... The It's Been SAId Podcast

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 16:16:25 -0600

"... And now for something completely different." It's been SAId is a podcast produced by the School Administrators of Iowa (SAI). We're republishing their episode with Ankeny's Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Darin Haack. He shares his experience with SAI's Individualized Leadership Coaching program. Tune in to hear how Ankeny Schools is leading by example - proving that learning is a lifelong journey.

Learning Series: Pt. 2 Restorative Practice In Action

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:45:06 -0600

Tune in to hear host, Ken Morris, Jr., Ankeny Schools' Chief Diversity Officer with guests Abby Canfield - Southeast Elementary Social Worker, Kelsey Leaper - Prairie Trail Elementary Counselor, Micaela Tuttle - Assistant Principal at Southeast Elementary, as they explore the use of restorative practice as a way to build stronger connections, promote understanding and encourage collaboration in their building communities.

Restorative practice focuses on open communication and working together. From building stronger relationships to resolving conflicts through responsive circle strategies we are helping to create a culture of belonging and respect.

Let's Talk About... Voices of Learning: Connecting Through Language

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 10:47:45 -0600

Dr. Pruitt is celebrating multilingualism and the journey of our Ankeny students breaking through language barriers and swinging doors to fluency wide open! Ankeny Teachers Lissa Fulkerson, Marcella Mallet, and Brooke Fry have a lot to say about their students and the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Program. Despite the added cultural, language, social, and even dietary challenges they face while continuing their academic studies, these students are highly motivated and thriving. Check out our latest podcast on www.AnkenySchools.org or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

Learning Series: How Leader In Me is Shaping ACSD Student Leadership

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:21:35 -0600

In this episode, Dr. Amy Dittmar, ACSD Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, sits down with Amy Ingersoll & Kayla Feld, Lighthouse Coordinators at Prairie Trail and Heritage Elementary, and Ben Muller, Principal of Prairie Trail Elementary.

They’re talking all about Leader in Me—a powerful program teaching students leadership, accountability, and confidence—and celebrating the incredible accomplishment of several Ankeny schools achieving Lighthouse School certification!

Join the conversation and learn how this program shapes Ankeny's future leaders.

Learning Series: Nourishing Schools Part 2

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0600

When schools, nonprofits like the Food Bank of Iowa, students, and dedicated staff come together, real change happens. Ankeny Schools Community Engagement Specialist, Madisen Gaskin hosts a roundtable discussion with Michelle Book, CEO & President of Food Bank of Iowa, Scott Litchfield the Director of Nutrition Services for Ankeny Schools, and Leah Clark Ankeny Northview Middle School Social Worker to discuss food insecurity by-the-numbers in our community.

Student Takeover: Maxx Tyler & Alli Macke Have Questions about the Innovative Hub

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 16:24:28 -0500

Ankeny HS seniors Maxx Tyler and Alli Macke, student interns at Casey's Corporate offices, want to know how their Orbis Program experience is influencing plans for the new Innovative Hub building. Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt and Samantha Aukes, Chief of Communications for Ankeny Schools are answering ALL of their questions. Tune in!

Learning Series: Nourishing Students Introduction

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Madisen Gaskin, Community Engagement Specialist for Ankeny Schools hosts Ankeny Schools staff, Leah Clark - Social Worker, Erin Van Dorin - Associate Principal BEYOND & Summit High School programs, and Shawn Beirman - Social Emotional Learning Specialist on this podcast to discuss what led to opening Ankeny's school-based food pantries in partnership with the Food Bank of Iowa.

Student Takeover: Ella, CeCi & Lucy Want Answers

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 12:00:00 -0500

It's another student takeover. 6th graders Ella, CeCi, and Lucy have questions for Dr. Pruitt and they want answers. Testing their investigative reporter skills, these ladies don't shy away from the hard-hitting questions from "Do you decide if there's a snow day?" to "What's it like being a girl dad?". Tune in to a special student takeover of We Are Ankeny.

Learning Series... Introduction to Restorative Practices

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 17:30:00 -0500

This is the first of a special topic series we're introducing this season. The topic is Restorative Practice and your host is Shawn Beirman, Social Emotional Specialist for Ankeny Schools. In this episode, Shawn introduces you to restorative practices and three theories that ACSD focuses on in educating administrators and teachers including Social Emotional Window, Fair Process Act, and Affects.

Community Engagement is At Your Service

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0500

Not many people know what a Community Engagement department does, but Madisen Gaskin, Community Engagement Coordinator for Ankeny Schools, and her team have big plans to change that. Madisen is at the mic with Dr. Pruitt talking about how volunteers contribute to schools and the district overall, developing new community education classes and how the term intergenerational is integral to the Community Engagement purpose and goals.

New to District Teachers Talk about the Ankeny Experience

Ankeny Community School District — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 11:00:00 -0500

Their experience is the Ankeny Experience! Teachers new to the Ankeny District, Mariah Hoium at Prairie Trail Elementary, Nick Robinson at Centennial High School, and Mary Stewart at Southeast Elementary, share their hopes, expectations, and plans for the 24-25 school year with superintendent Dr. Eric Pruitt on the We Are Ankeny podcast. Listen Here or find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or Audible.

Student Takeover: Miles & Friends Take on 8th & 9th Grade

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:56:21 -0500

The second Student Takeover of Season 4 features host Miles, Xavier, Maddie, and Lou, as they talk about moving from buildings (7th to 8th grade) and becoming high school 9th graders. You can also listen to We Are Ankeny Podcasts on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, and Apple Podcast.

Let's Talk About It Student Takeover... Soundtrack of Life

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:00:00 -0500

Ankeny High seniors Charles Christensen and Griffen Nye turn the microphones on and interview ACSD Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Darin Haack. Music is the topic so sit back and join in on song recommendations, album critiques, and favorite confessions.

Let's Talk About It Student Takeover... High School Entrepreneurs

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 16:00:00 -0500

It's a podcast takeover by Ankeny Centennial graduated senior Mya Maronn. She's invited student entrepreneurs Logan Sobaski, Charli Brady, and Emma Bececk. Hear advice on pitfalls to avoid, pushing boundaries, and pursuing interests for the under-18 entrepreneur.

Let's Talk About... the ACSD Summer Food Program

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:30:00 -0500

Burnt ends are on the menu today as the Ankeny Schools' Nutritional Services team launches the 2024 Summer Food Program. Director of Nutrition Services Scott Litchfield, Chef Joe Weitz, and Dietitian Susan Carlson have a lot to discuss and celebrate about this summer and plans for the 2024-25 school meal programs. For more information visit the Nutrition Services page on the AnkenySchools.org website.

Let's Talk About It: Parkview Middle School Student Takeover

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:02:27 -0500

Parkview Middle School student, Miles, has taken over the "Let's Talk About It" podcast! He takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour of Parkview's 2024 spring play Goldilocks on Trial. Miles (actor) with fellow Parkview student Avery (set designer & builder), and Ms. Alexa Long (teacher sponsor and producer) talk about the process of bringing the play to life and how more students can get involved.

Let's Talk About... Student Leadership

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:57:33 -0500

Student voices are crucial to a thriving academic community. This show introduces you to student school board representatives Megan Rembert and Kalyani Baht and Ankeny Centennial student council member Mya Maron. The next generation of leadership begins here, take a listen.

Let's Talk About... The Teacher's Academy

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0600

Ankeny Schools is preparing the next generation of public school teachers and administrators. Our Teacher's Academy is a concurrent course with Des Moines Area Community College's Foundations of Education where Ankeny students earn college credit and classroom experience. Students Anna Sash and Ingrid Dietrich give you an inside look at their experiences. Join Teacher Academy instructor Julie Blevins and Northeast Elementary 5th grade teacher and Teacher Academy mentor Jessie Purviance at the goal and future plans for the program.

Let's Talk About... Core Skills, Soft Skills, and Mental Health

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0600

Join guests Kayla Bell-Consolver the Director of the Counseling Center at Broadlawns Community Clinic at Drake University, Shawn Beirman the Social-Emotional Learning Specialist at Ankeny Schools, and Al Neppl, Director of Professional and Leadership Development at Ankeny Schools as they discuss the importance of soft skills like adaptability, empathy, and collaboration for students.

Let's Talk About... Project-Based Learning in Ankeny Schools

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0600

We know students have different learning styles, so in this episode, we're shining a light on project-based learning (PBL). Our guests include Jason Clark, a teacher at Ankeny Centennial High School. He's adopted PBL as his method of teaching. Hannah Robertson is a Des Moines Area consultant on PBL and a recent instructor at Ankeny's summer teacher academy and Dr. Amy Dittmar, Assistant Superintendent of Ankeny Schools. She leads the planning team for Ankeny School's new Innovative Hub. You'll find this and many other Let's Talk about It topics on the We Are Ankeny podcast channel found at www.ankenyschools.org , Apple podcasts, Spotify podcasts, Amazon Music, and Audible podcasts.

Let's Talk About... Opening Abbie Grove Elementary

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:45:00 -0600

Opening Fall 2024! Dr. Pruitt has the new Abbie Grove principal- Andrew Burg, Executive Director of Elementary Education- Tara Owen, and District K-5 Teacher Librarian- Corissa Thompson on to give you a peek at what it takes to open an elementary building in Ankeny.

Let's talk about... Renewal Vote for Physical Plant & Equipment Levy

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 16:36:47 -0500

On November 7, 2023, Ankeny residents will vote on the renewal of the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy. This renewal happens every 10 years, and the funds are used by Ankeny Community Schools to make building repairs, purchase new equipment, and increase security systems. Listen and learn about PPEL and it's relationship to the Ankeny Community through Ankeny Schools.

Let's Talk About... Stepping into 6th Grade

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 09 May 2023 08:50:53 -0500

Podcast Guests: Northeast Elementary 5th grade teacher Kristen Recher, Parkview Middle School Counselor Nate Tobey, and Parkview Principal Ben Huebsch. Ankeny 5th graders have a big transition in the fall when they move from an elementary building to a middle school building. Our guests today are here to let you know what conversations our 5th-grade teachers are having in the classroom and how the middle schools are preparing for their arrival.

Let's Talk About... The Superintendent's Life

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 01 May 2023 14:00:00 -0500

What's it like being a school district superintendent? What challenges does education face in the next few years? Our guests answered these questions and more. Host and Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt asked Des Moines area colleagues Dr. Rosalie Daca from Urbandale Community School District, Dr. D.T. Magee from Norwalk Community School District, and Dr. Dirk Halupnik from Southeast Polk Community Schools to pull up a microphone and talk about what it's like to be a superintendent.

Let's Talk About... Middle to High School Transitions

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:45:00 -0500

New environments can mean excitement to one student, but anxiety to another. This podcast is "almost" everything you need to know about moving into 8th-grade and 10th-grade. Southview Middle School counselor Nicole Wee, Ankeny Centennial High School counselor
Ashley Wilson, and Executive Director for Ankeny Secondary Schools Bev Kuehn have advice, reassurance, and encouragement for parents anticipating a building change next fall or in the near future.

Let's Talk About... Filling. Up. Every. Learner. (FUEL)

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 16:11:22 -0500

Fill The Fund is an annual event focused on supporting the 'Filling Up Every Learner' (F.U.E.L.) fund. Pull up a seat to the table with our guests, IMPACT Community Action Partnership CEO- Anne Bacon, Wiedenman Family Foundation President - Barb Wiedenman, and Scott Litchfield the Director of Nutrition Services for Ankeny Schools as they deep dive into the topics of food insecurity, ACSD's proactive program to support students, and how community advocacy continues to inspire us all.

Let's Talk About... Ankeny HS's The Talon News

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 14:51:00 -0500

Ankeny High School is producing the next generation of journalists. Award-winning news source, The Talon, is produced for and by students. Joining Dr. Pruitt to talk about what makes The Talon a great elective choice are editors Ava, Vivian, and Julien.

Let's Talk About... Ankeny Area Historical Society

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 16:00:14 -0500

Explore the history of Ankeny in this episode with Ankeny Area Historical Society co-Chairs Jois Thorson ODonnell, JoAnn Kocheiser Adamson, and intern Avan Albaugh. It's a trip down memory lane with a peek into current exhibits and summer events.

Let's Talk About... Social Emotional Learning

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:35:00 -0500

Today, we are discussing the concept and integration of Social and Emotional Learning in the classroom, also referred to as SEL. Join Ankeny Schools staff members Shawn Bierman, Social Emotional Learning Specialist; Jason Aker, Principal at Prairie Ridge Middle School and Whitney Longtin, Assistant Principal at Southeast Elementary School as they define social-emotional learning and what it looks like in their classrooms and throughout the district.

Let's Talk About... Employee & Family Services' Student Assistance Program

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:34:53 -0500

Our guest, Steve Arneson, is from Employee and Family Resources Center. He is a partner with Ankeny Schools for the Student Assistance Program available in our schools and to families. Health and especially mental health are topics that school districts find themselves talking about more and more. Ankeny Community School District believes the health of our students and their families affects their ability to excel in the classroom and we've partnered with EFR to provide resources in and outside of our school buildings.

Let's Talk About... Student Teaching

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:22:23 -0600

Student teachers are the future of our Ankeny Schools. It's a critical phase in the development, and we are committed to providing a unique and rich experience to all placed in our district. It's our goal that every student teacher placed here, wants to stay here. Sit down with a former and current student teacher and hear about their time walking the halls and running classrooms in Ankeny. Guests: Hillary Thomae and Alex Kitterman.

Let's Talk About... Junior Achievement of Central Iowa

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 10:34:20 -0600

Junior Achievement of Central Iowa is expanding their partnership with Ankeny Community Schools by adding the new 6th - 12th grade program, Financial Park©. This program, compliments the 5th grade program Biz Town©. Pull up a seat at the We Are Ankeny table with guests president of JA of Central Iowa, Ryan Osborn; JA Director of Education, Shannon Gerard; Ankeny Schools' Post-secondary Readiness Specialist, Amy Steenhoek; and your host, Ankeny Schools Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt.

Let's Talk About... Senior Year, The Road to Graduation

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:50:00 -0600

Graduation doesn't have to be stressful for students and parents. Let's talk about navigating senioritis, counting credits, and what to expect on commencement day with high school counselors Audrey Bell, Ashley Tatum, and Ashley Wilson. They're sharing advice with Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitton about the road to graduation.

Let's Talk About... School Budgets and Property Taxes

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 14:50:00 -0600

Today's podcast guests are Randy Ripperger, Polk County Iowa's Property Assessor and Bryon Tack, Assistant Assessor. It doesn’t matter if you have children attending public school, if you own property in Polk County - click and turn up the volume. Jennifer Jamison, CFO for Ankeny Schools joins Dr. Erick Pruitt and our guests to add insight on how these taxes directly impact Ankeny Schools.

Let's Talk About... Innovative Secondary Schools

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 16:40:24 -0600

If you could create an innovative secondary school any way you wanted, what would it be? Today's guests are on a panel reimagining the 6th through 12th-grade experience at Ankeny Schools (ACSD). JoinDr. Erick Pruitt as he hosts ACSD parent Amy Guidry, Vice President of Human Capital at Accumold Grace Swanson, and team facilitator Ankeny Schools' Chief Officer of Legal Affairs & Strategic Initiatives Jessie Dirks.

Let's Talk About the... Mentors In Violence Prevention Program

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 10:48:27 -0600

The threat of school violence is everywhere, even in the Des Moines Metro and surrounding communities. The fear of violence can interfere with learning, friendships, and even how students envision and value their future. Mentors In Violence Prevention was introduced in Ankeny Schools this year to address what students are experiencing. Students pioneering the program speak to the community about the how they plan to make a difference.

Let's Talk About... Secondary Math and Computer Science

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Dr. Erick Pruitt invites Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum and Innovation back to the podcast to talk about the upcoming changes Ankeny Schools is making to the secondary math and computer science curriculum. The goal is to have kids understand they are all "math people" even if it looks different from one student to another. The changes for the 2023-24 academic school year to the Ankeny Schools math and computer science curriculum will provide a clear pathway for students with parent and counselor input - to navigate for successful post graduation plans.

Let's Talk About... Teachers & Mentors

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Let's talk about teacher mentoring. Ankeny strives, and succeeds, as an innovator among school districts that surround the Des Moines Metro. The first suburb to expand to two high schools is now reinventing the traditional professional mentor structure for new and new-to-the-district teachers.

District mentoring coaches and specialist Elise Jessen, Kim Haack, and Justin Herrick join Ankeny Schools Superintendent, Erick Pruitt to explain how this new strategy and approach will benefit students. As well as how Ankeny teachers are now supported, and the development mentors themselves are experiencing with the new program.

Let's Talk About... the City of Ankeny

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 14:45:00 -0600

We're welcoming David Jones, City of Ankeny's City Manager to our podcast. This episode explores the relationship between the district and the city from using school facilities to economic growth and plans. Join us and let's talk about the city of Ankeny.

Let's Talk About... The Robotics Program

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:30:00 -0600

Robotics. Two teams with the same mission. To win. Our episode brings Hawk and Jag competitors to the table with a common passion. Competitive teams are growing at both high schools. Learn why you don't need to know programming, engineering, or construction to participate. These teens talk no holds barred about why they showed up to their first club meeting, and what brings them back each season. Joining these students is Dr. Pruitt and Ankeny High School's robotic team coach and AHS teacher Jennifer Poole.

Let's Talk About... Community Partnerships

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:30:00 -0600

Ankeny schools values its community partnerships. This episode brings Ankeny School Foundation President, Kara Hogue, to the studio. Join us as Dr. Pruitt and Ms. Hogue are joined by Ankeny Schools Chief Officer-Jessica Dirks and Heidi Palkovic Community Engagement Manager - Heidi Palkovic as the discuss how community and public schools relationships continue to evolve, future plans and fundraising.

Let's Talk About... Winter Weather, Delayed Starts, and Closings

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 15:52:27 -0600

Iowa winters can bring freezing rain, snow, sub-zero temperatures, and severe winds in a matter of hours. This episode will educate our Ankeny community on what goes into making a decision to keep schools open, delaying the starts, letting students out early, and when it's best just to stay closed. Ankeny Schools pulls back the curtain to show how and why inclement weather decisions are made. Join Dr. Pruitt, Samantha Aukes, Chief of Communications, and Dr. Darin Haack, assistant superintendent of schools, and Let's Talk About... the weather.

Let's Talk About... Volunteers In Public Schools

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 14:48:06 -0600

This episode brings overdue attention to a great Ankeny Schools resource, our volunteers. Volunteering looks different throughout our district, from parents in the lunchroom, to community members reading in classrooms and high school students prepping materials for teachers. Jessica Dirks is the Chief of Legal Affairs and Chief of Strategic Initiatives, Heidi Palkovic is the Community Engagement Manager, and Denise Miller joins Dr. Erick Pruitt to introduce the "One-Million Minute" volunteer goal, provide a behind-the-scenes look at how volunteers help our district, and how the safety of students and staff remains a priority.

Let's Talk About... Ankeny Activities & Athletics

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 16:13:43 -0500

Activities, clubs and sports Oh, My! Ankeny High School and Centennial High School started the year with new leadership in the Activities and Athletic (A.D.) offices. New Hawk Director, Adam McDonnell was the former A.D. at Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids. The Jaguars' new Director arrived from Valley High School.

There's a lot to talk about. For the first time since bowling in 2006 the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union is introducing a new sanctioned sport in Iowa - girls' wrestling. The directors also talked about the benefits of starting their positions together, goals of increasing student participation and much more.

Join Dr. Pruitt, Adam McDonnell, Nate Lingren and Let's talk about... Ankeny Activities and Athletics.

Let's Talk About... The Facility Master Plan Committee

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 12:16:44 -0500

September 13, 2022, a committee made up of Ankeny parents, community members, and staff began working on the Facility Master Plan (FMP). Co-facilitated by Dr. Darin Haack, an Assistant Superintendent, and RSP & Associates, the district's demographer, the committee completed their first task by drafting financial belief statements. The next meeting is scheduled for September 27, 2022, to discuss academic programming and creating curriculum belief statements.

The Ankeny schools website has a frequently asked questions document, the full presentation slide deck from the meeting, and a link to submit questions about the FMP. Questions will be answered by the FMP committee.

The facilities master planning process has four desired discussions:
1. Grade-level Configuration
2. Future Facility Needs
3. Boundaries
4. Renovations & Construction

Let's Talk About... The High Schools

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 08:01:00 -0500

A new school year brings a new administrator, and new projects as principals Dr. Jill Urich and Dr. DJ Johnson share with the Ankeny community in this episode. Bev Kuehn, Executive Director of Secondary Schools at ACSD also joins the panel offering insight into how she and the principals work together to make the transitions from the middle schools a smooth transition.

Let's Talk About... The Neveln Center and New Elementary Building

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 07:01:00 -0500

Exciting changes are coming! The renovation of an original Ankeny school buildings is almost complete and scheduled to open in January 2023. It will be used as the new office for district administration. New construction has also started at the site for our newest elementary building. It's scheduled to open Fall of 2024. Here's your chance to hear how these projects are progressing and get some insight to how the district plans for big projects like these.

Let's Talk About... Back to School

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 12:15:50 -0500

There's just something about the first week of school. In this episode, Dr. Pruitt talks with Tara Owen, Executive Director of Elementary Schools and Bev Kuehn, Executive Director of Secondary Schools for Ankeny Community School District. These administrators have a lot to say about the preparation that has taken place by the principals and teachers for ACSD. Tune in and find out what your kids will see and experience in these first few days.

Let's Talk About... Safety, Security and Ankeny Schools

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 10:44:47 -0500

The topic of student safety in schools is a serious one around the nation. This episode welcomes Ankeny's Chief of Police, Darius Potts and Ankeny Schools Safety and Security Specialist, Jon Davis to address our district's readiness plans for weather, threats and emergencies.

Let's Talk About... Facility Maintenance 2022-23

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 07:01:00 -0500

Join Tim Simpkins as he provides details of current renovation to Ankeny school buildings, the decision for new landscaping, and how the district decides the when, where and what of scheduling these projects with Dr. Pruitt, Superintendent and Dr. Haack, Assistant Superintendent of Ankeny schools.

Let's Talk About... School Bus Transportation

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:01:00 -0500

On July 1, 2022 ACSD partnered with First Student, Inc. as the district's transporation provider. Spencer Shoemaker with First Student has a lot to say about the safety, comfort, and experience First Student brings to Ankeny students in the upcoming school year.

Let's Talk About... Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Ankeny Community School District — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 13:16:32 -0500

Let's Talk about the DEI Framework. Ken Morris Jr. the Chief Diversity Officer with Ankeny Community School District takes a deep dive into a conversation with Ankeny Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt about what it means to create and live a DEI Framework for the district. The conversation includes how this framework supports the Strategic Plan and how it will positively impact students.

Let's Talk About... New Curriculum Part 2: Computer Science

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:30:00 -0500

The topic is computer science in part two of a two-part series on new curriculum at Ankeny Community Schools. In this podcast, Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum, is back and joins Dr. Erick Pruitt, superintendent of Ankeny Schools talk about the future expectations of computer science in grades K - 7.

Let's Talk About... New Curriculum Part 1: Math

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 12:15:55 -0500

As a parent, when your school district starts talking about a new curriculum it can make you panic. In Part one of a two-part series, Dr. Erick Pruitt chats with Ankeny Schools' Director of Curriculum, Carol Eddy. Pull up a chair to our table as Ms, Eddy explains what curriculum is vs the perceptions, the changes you as may see at home, and how you can help your student navigate it all.

Let's Talk About... Nutrition Services

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 16:03:32 -0500

School nutrition is more than just pizza for lunch. Scott Litchfield Ankeny Schools' Nutrition Director talks about summer plans, 2022 successes and plans for next year. Pull up to the table and let's talk about school nutrition.

Let's Talk About... Heritage Elementary STEAM Night

Ankeny Community School District — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 08:30:06 -0500

STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math has added "A" for Art to become STEAM. Ankeny school, Heritage Elementary, hosted it's first STEAM night to provide hands on fun and exploration of STEAM skills. Host, Samantha Aukes, Communications Director for Ankeny Schools sat with STEAM Night organizer Sara Sparks, Digital Technology Teacher at Heritage Elementary to discuss how building administrators are focused on increasing STEAM interests and the future of this successful event.

Let's Talk About... Why Ankeny?

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0500

Hiring and recruitment specialist, Michelle Allen, sits with Dr. Erick Pruitt to talk about why prospective job candidates should consider and choose Ankeny Schools to work. Join us as we discuss our mentoring program for teachers, highlight critical positions outside the classroom that keep our district running smoothly and offer candid insight on how the Covid-19 pandemic impacted the education job market.

Let's Talk About... Memorial Day

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 30 May 2022 08:01:00 -0500

Memorial Day is a special day to honor those no longer with us who served in the U.S. military. We've invited veteran Ankeny residents to sit and talk with veteran Dr. Erick Pruitt about Memorial Day, their experience in the service and how they as well as other local veterans are having a positive impact on Ankeny students as a ACSD employees, parents, volunteers, and active reserve military.

In this episode, Dr. Pruitt has a conversation with a current special education teacher in Ankeny who is a veteran of the Iowa National Guard, a current Ankeny Schools parent who is a veteran of the Iowa National Guard and currently serving in as an active guard/reserve and a long-time resident of Ankeny whose children all graduated from Ankeny Schools and is the Commander of American Legion Post #42 in uptown Ankeny.

Let's Talk About... Profile of a Graduate

Ankeny Community School District — Fri, 27 May 2022 09:21:22 -0500

In this episode our guests have a conversation from the aspects of administrators and a student about the Profile of Graduate put together by a task force of parents, staff and community members. Together the task force identified essential cognitive, personal and interpersonal competencies that every student should have by the time they graduate from high school: Knowledgeable, Authentic, Engaged, Understanding, Curious and Adaptable. Join the table discussion as we hear about Ankeny's Profile of a Graduate.

Let's Talk About the Strategic Plan

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 23 May 2022 13:02:37 -0500

Throughout the year, planning teams worked hard to reimagine how we might improve in serving our students. Teams of parents, community members, students, and staff worked to create this document that will guide how our district will operate as we strive to achieve our goals. Our hope is that this will serve as an anchor for all the district’s work for the next five years.

Our new mission statement is as follows: The Ankeny Community School District engages all students in an educational experience that equips them with the skills to flourish in and contribute to an ever-changing world. Following the Core Planning Team’s work, seven "action teams" made up of nearly 200 individuals from across the community then worked to develop specific, concrete strategies to bring the framework to life. This work resulted in a plan built on three core pillars:

The prioritization of academic rigor & relevance
A focus on maintaining a system of talented people, and
A commitment to providing supportive learning environments

In this episode we’ll talk with Dr. Jen Lindaman, Ankeny School's Chief Officer of Academic Services, Dr. Darin Haack, Ankeny School's Chief Operations Officer and Jodie Graham, Ankeny School's Director of Human Resources specifically about the strategic plan.

Let's Talk About... Post High School Planning

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 16 May 2022 09:34:21 -0500

Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) is set to make sure central Iowa high school students have every opportunity to plan the future they want. DMACC President, Rob Denson sits down with Dr. Erick Pruitt to discuss how a $50,000 grant to hire 14 College and Career Transition Counselors (CCTC) will aid students with colleges, programs/majors, apprenticeships, military service and other post-high school education plans. Recorded May 11, 2022

Let's Talk About...Ankeny's History

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 12 May 2022 12:36:49 -0500

Ankeny started as a railroad and farming community, named after John Fletcher Ankeny. Guest Denny Presnall, a long-time Ankeny resident former teacher, and former Ankeny School Board Director joins Dr. Erick Pruitt, Superintendent of Ankeny Schools to talk about the rich history of Ankeny and Ankeny Schools. Recorded May 6, 2022

Let's Talk About... Literacy with 2021 Miss Iowa, Grace Keller

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 09 May 2022 10:57:03 -0500

Miss Grace Lynn Keller is serious about her initiative as Miss Iowa 2021 - Read to Succeed. She visited Northwest Elementary School in Ankeny, IA to read with students and share her love of books, stories and the importance of reading everyday. Host, Dr. Erick Pruitt discusses her year as Miss Iowa, traveling the state of Iowa, and what her future holds with only a few weeks to go in her reign. You can follow Ms. Keller on Instagram @gracelynnkeller for life after the crown.

Let's Talk About... The Ankeny Experience

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 02 May 2022 12:17:18 -0500

From Pre-K to senior year, what does the Ankeny schools experience look like? Host, Dr. Erick Pruitt is joined by Ankeny Schools administrators Dr. Jen Lindaman, Chief Officer of Academic Services and Carol Eddy, Director of Curriculum and Innovation to discuss how the Ankeny Experience for students has evolved and what we can look for in the future.

Let's Talk About... the district budget

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 12:25:49 -0500

Host & Ankeny Schools Superintendent Dr. Erick Pruitt welcomes Jennifer Jamison the district's Chief Financial Officer to talk about the newly certified budget for the fiscal year 2023.

Let's Talk About... School Enrollment

Ankeny Community School District — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 10:22:08 -0500

Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt talks enrollment with Dr. Darin Haack, Chief Operations Officer of Ankeny Schools and Kirk Magill, Integrated Systems Administrator for the district. Key topics including emerging enrollment trends for 2022-23, challenges of school registration and projections for Ankeny School enrollment are just a few highlights from this podcast. Recorded 04/18/22.

Let's Talk About... the new Ankeny Schools Podcast

Ankeny Community School District — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:12:26 -0500

Ankeny Community School District Superintendent, Dr. Erick Pruitt, introduces a new podcast produced officially by Ankeny Schools.