The Alabaster City Schools Podcast
Welcome to the Alabaster City Schools Podcast, the official education podcast by Alabaster City Schools. Join us on a captivating journey through the world of education, where we explore innovative teaching methodologies, insightful discussions on learning trends, and empowering stories of student and educator achievements. Each episode is a dynamic blend of expert interviews, thought-provoking insights, and practical strategies that parents, students, and educators can apply to enrich their educational experiences. Discover the vibrant landscape of learning in our community as we showcase the boundless potential of Alabaster’s Warrior spirit!
Listen on:
Episodes
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Game On: Inside Thompson High School Esports – Alabama's Reigning State Champions In this episode of the Alabaster City Schools Podcast, host Griffin Knight spotlights the powerhouse behind Alabama’s reigning Esports State Champions—Thompson High School. Head Coach Hunter Curtis and Assistant Coach Cole Pruitt share the story behind the program's rapid rise, its back-to-back championship wins, and how Esports is making waves across the state. Junior Hayes Paganelli and senior Hollyn Deasee offer an inside look at life on the team, the competitive spirit that drives them, and the growing scholarship opportunities now available to student gamers. From strategy and teamwork to state titles and college prospects, this episode dives deep into one of Thompson’s most dynamic and forward-looking programs.
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Episode Title: Intervention in Action: Supporting Every Learner at Thompson Middle
Host: Jason Gaston, APR (Communications Director / Alabaster City Schools) Guests:
Ms. Kim Etheridge, Math Interventionist, Thompson Middle School
Ms. Cori McBride, Reading Interventionist, Thompson Middle School
Dr. Amanda Wilbanks, Chief Academic Officer, Alabaster City Schools
Description:In this episode, we take you inside the targeted academic support happening at Thompson Middle School through the lens of two key educators: Math Interventionist Ms. Kim Etheridge and Reading Interventionist Ms. Cori McBride. Hosted by ACS Communications Director Jason Gaston, the conversation dives into how interventionists identify learning gaps, provide personalized instruction, and support students who need that extra lift in math and reading.
We also speak with Dr. Amanda Wilbanks, ACS Chief Academic Officer, who outlines how this initiative fits into the district’s broader academic strategy and why early, intensive support is crucial for student success.
Whether you're an educator, parent, or school leader, this episode gives an inside look at the powerful impact of academic intervention — and the dedicated professionals driving it.
Key Topics:
The role of math and reading interventionists in daily instruction
How students are identified and progress is monitored
The importance of collaboration with classroom teachers
Real-life student success stories
District-wide goals for closing academic gaps
Listen On: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Podbean Follow Us: @AlabasterCitySchools on social media Visit: https://www.acsboe.org
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Thursday Dec 19, 2024
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Wednesday Oct 23, 2024
Monday Sep 30, 2024
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Monday Aug 05, 2024
In this episode of The Alabaster City Schools Podcast we dive into the inner workings of Rooms by Apptegy, our school system's new two-way messaging tool. Rooms continues to transform communication for Alabaster City Schools. In this episode, learn all about Rooms from two of our Instructional Technology Coaches - and how this new transformative communication tool will benefit students, parents, families, educators, and our entire school community.
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
In this episode of the Alabaster City Schools Podcast, ACS Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers chats with Mrs. Lakesha Fleming, Thompson Middle School’s 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Lakesha Fleming has a passion for teaching and learning and challenges her students to reach their full potential.
Mrs. Fleming has more than two decades of teaching experience, all of them in Alabaster area schools. Mrs. Fleming finds inspiration in her peers and in her students. She aims to instill success in her students’ journeys - both in English and in life.