In Episode 56 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith welcomes Jewel Middle School special education teachers Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear for a conversation about mentorship, relationships, and supporting students with diverse needs. Mia, a second-year teacher in a self-contained classroom, and Heather, a veteran educator and mentor teacher, reflect on the connection they’ve built through the district’s teacher induction program and how that support system helps new-to-SD129-educators grow with confidence. The episode also offers an inside look at the different roles special education teachers play in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about collaboration, growth, and the relationships that help both students and teachers thrive in West Aurora School District 129.

In Episode 55 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith is joined by West Aurora High School senior and student board representative Dexter McWilliams for a student-centered conversation on the district’s “off and away” cell phone policy. Dexter shares his journey through SD129, highlighting the relationships, activities, and experiences that shaped his high school years, while offering an honest perspective on how the policy has impacted learning and classroom culture. The discussion explores both the challenges and unexpected benefits, including increased focus, stronger peer connections, and improved productivity. Tune in for a thoughtful look at this initiative through the lens of a student voice and what it means for the future of learning at West Aurora.

In Episode 54 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with Dr. Robert Halverson, Superintendent of East Aurora School District 131, for a crosstown conversation rooted in shared experiences and community. They reflect on their similar paths from classroom teachers to district leadership and the mentors and relationships that shaped their journeys. The discussion highlights how those lessons influence their leadership today, while also looking ahead to expanded opportunities for students and stronger East-West collaboration. Tune in for a thoughtful look at leadership, partnership, and the shared commitment to supporting every student in Aurora.

In Episode 53 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith centers the conversation on a core question in the district’s strategic framework: what it really means to support every learner. Joined by Kelly Cook, Assistant Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and Carlos Guillen, Community Agency and Restorative Practices Coordinator, Dr. Smith explores how strong Tier 1 instruction, structured responsive teaching time (SRTT), and restorative practices work together to meet students’ academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. The discussion highlights a shift from “wait to fail” to early identification and proactive support—building consistent expectations, relationships, and psychological safety so students can learn and grow. Tune in for a clear, behind-the-scenes look at the systems and mindsets that help SD129 serve all students, all the time.

In this episode, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with West Aurora alumni Leah Warren (Class of 2016) and Dr. Wendy Andrade (Class of 2013) as they return to campus to connect with current students. The conversation explores how their experiences in SD129 helped prepare them for life beyond high school, from navigating rigorous academics and diverse communities to building confidence, resilience, and meaningful relationships. Leah and Wendy also share honest insights about career pivots, post-secondary surprises, and advice for students and parents as they consider what comes next. It’s a thoughtful reminder of the lasting impact of education.

In Episode 51 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith welcomes West Aurora High School senior Noe Ruiz and Career Development Coordinator Katie Johnson for a conversation about the school’s growing internship program. Johnson discusses how state legislation and strong career-pathway development helped launch the course, while outlining the essential skills students gain along the way. Noe shares how his architecture internship has deepened his career interests, strengthened his communication and time-management skills, and provided meaningful real-world experiences guided by supportive mentors. Together, they highlight how hands-on learning is opening doors for students and building valuable connections between West Aurora School District 129 and the broader community.

In Episode 50 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith sits down with A+ Foundation Executive Director Ingrid Roney and Foundation President Scott Voris, both proud West Aurora graduates, to talk about how the organization continues to invest in students and staff. From classroom grants and AP test funding to alumni engagement and community events, the conversation highlights the lasting impact of local giving and the many ways the A+ Foundation helps West Aurora students learn, grow, and succeed.

In Episode 49 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith kicks off the 2025–2026 school year with Cynthia Ramos, Department Administrator for K-5 Literacy and Bilingual Education, and Heather Turner, fifth-grade teacher at Nicholson Elementary. Together, they discuss the district’s rollout of a new literacy curriculum and what it means for students and teachers across the elementary level. The conversation explores the intentional process behind selecting the program, the professional learning designed to support its implementation, and the early wins and challenges educators are experiencing. Tune in to hear how this new curriculum is already fostering student excitement, supporting multilingual learners, and equipping educators with the tools they need to build confident, capable readers and writers.

In Episode 48 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith wraps up the season with a conversation featuring Jen Bernal, Principal of Nicholson Elementary, and Justin McIntosh, Principal of Schneider Elementary. Together, they reflect on the role of relationships in building strong school communities and how their personal leadership journeys shape their work today. From empowering staff and supporting families to celebrating student growth and success, both leaders share how high expectations and genuine care create an environment where students thrive. Tune in for a thoughtful and energizing look at leadership, collaboration, and the lasting impact of elementary education.

In Episode 47 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Dr. Michael Smith talks with Cindy Larry, Principal of Herget Middle School, and Jeff Bryant, Principal of Jefferson Middle School. They reflect on how their diverse career paths—from special education and the corporate world to student services and curriculum—shape the way they lead today. They discuss the unique role of middle schools in helping students navigate a time of big personal growth, and how they intentionally build school cultures that are inclusive, empowering, and grounded in strong relationships. Tune in for an engaging conversation on how two dedicated leaders are making a lasting impact during one of the most important stages in a student’s journey.