Schoolhouse ROX: A POGcast

Episode 95 - RoxThon 25

Roxbury School District — Wed, 14 May 2025 19:53:21 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp speaks with Dr. Gottfried, Mrs. Richman, and Ms. Gonzalez along with three members of the RoxThon Leadership team about this year's installment of the amazing fundraising event. The RoxThon leadership and participants raised more than $100,000 this year to support Pediatric Cancer research and awareness. They are dedicated to making our community better and to supporting families who are impacted by pediatric cancer. The amazing work of this event speaks for itself so you should take the time to hear all about it!

Episode 94 - SDF Partnerships

Roxbury School District — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 15:24:31 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Caccavale talk with Brian from BA Colella Heating and Cooling as well as a few SDF students about the importance of the professional partnerships that support the SDF Program. They talk about the value of exposure to the trades for high school students not only to support their journey into adulthood, but also in order to present valuable potential career opportunities.

Episode 93: Athlete Mental Health

Roxbury School District — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:57:22 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses a grassroots initiative led by student with the support of Mr. Bischoff and Ms. Katzenberger to acknowledge and support the mental health of our student athletes. They are hoping to develop awareness and support structures where not only RHS student athletes, but athletes in our community can gain access to support for mental health needs including a growing understanding of the evolving mindset of athletes and the stress produced by athletics.

"Be curious, not judgmental."

Episode 92 - RHS HR Challenge

Roxbury School District — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 11:07:38 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp chats with Mr. Crispino, RHS Principal, and Mr. Mawn, RHS Assistant Principal, about one of their new initiatives, the Homeroom Challenge. This challenge was developed by the admin team in order to help drive more fun and excitement around the preparation for NJGPA. They are hoping that this work along with exceptional instruction everyday in a climate that seeks to celebrate student and teacher hard work will prove effective in showing excellence on the assessment.

Episode 91 - Double Seal of Biliteracy Students

Roxbury School District — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp is joined by a cadre of students who have passed two Seal of Biliteracy assesments...an amazing accomplishment! He is also joined by Roxbury SS and WL supervisor, Matt Trokan who oversees the Seal of Biliteracy assessment program and has also passed two Seal of Billiteracy assessments. Being multi lingual is truly a superpower!

Episode 90 - RoxBuddies

Roxbury School District — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:42:37 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp is joined by an array of RoxBuddies, one of their advisors, Mrs. McInnes, and NES Principal, Mrs. Lynch. Hear all about the peer mentoring/partnership program between Roxbury High School and Nixon Elementary School that has grown from supporting approximately 30 students total to over 150! The students that are a part of the program share their highlights and insights about why the program is so special.

Episode 89 - RHS Physical Education - Leading the Way

Roxbury School District — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp hears about the exceptional developments in the Roxbury High School Physical Education program from Mr. Mason, Ms. Reiser, Mr. Monaco, and Mr. Trotter. With so many amazing things happening, it is no wonder they are constantly visited by other districts seeking to emulate their work.

Episode 88 - Morris County Vocational School District Partnership

Roxbury School District — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 08:36:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp has the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Shari Castelli, MCVSD Acting Superintendent of Schools, and Mr. Richard Hayzler, Pequannock High School Principal about the power of partnering with Morris County Vocational School District. Both Roxbury and Pequannock have incredibly strong partnerships with MCVSD where students are provided unique access to career pathways and authentic learning experiences.

Episode 87 - Roxbotix

Roxbury School District — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 08:22:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp talks about Roxbury High School's Roxbotix team. He has the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Taylor, team coach, and five of the Roxbotix Executive Board. What this team has and continues to accomplish is nothing short of impressive. It is clear that comrade and ingenuity are hallmarks of this organization. https://www.facebook.com/team4361/

Episode 86 - SDF Safety - OSHA

Roxbury School District — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:07:55 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the commitment to safety protocols and instruction as a part of the Structural Design and Fabrication program with Mr. Caccavale and a few of his students. This instruction includes all students earning an industry recognized credential, OSHA 10 certification.

Episode 85 - EMS Seminar

Roxbury School District — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 12:24:46 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the recalibration of Online Skills at EMS into EMS Seminar to address the need for explicit instruction pertaining to executive functioning skills. Mrs. Hubbard worked over the summer to deign the instructional sequence and materials to meet the needs of EMS students. Hear all about the course from Mrs. Hubbard and three of her students.

Episode 84 - IPASS Recognition at LR

Roxbury School District — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:42:33 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses how the IPASS initiative at Lincoln Roosevelt School makes it such an amazing place to teach, learn, and grow with Dr. Zegar, Ms. DelRusso, Ms. Urban, and two students. Their positive approach to building school culture and developing amazing students is a definite reflection of many of the most important growth experiences for young people.

Episode 83 - SDF House #3

Roxbury School District — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:14:36 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Caccavale talk about Roxbury High School's third house build in partnership with the Greater Middlesex and Morris Habitat for Humanity with a few Structural Design and Fabrication students. The student share their learning experience as well as their reasons for taking the class. They reflect on the importance of the relationships that are also being built!

Episode 82 - Reassessment at EMS

Roxbury School District — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 11:11:58 -0500

In this episode,Dr. Seipp discusses the importance of considering learning as a journey with the seventh grade math team, Ms. Gallo, Mrs. Jameson, and Ms. Richardson, as well as two students. In this conversation, we talk about the importance of equity and confidence building within the assessment structure.

Episode 81 - Cell Phones at RHS

Roxbury School District — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 19:26:52 -0400

In this episdoe, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Mawn, Mr. Geary, and Ms. Fagan discuss Roxbury High School's recent procedural adjustment to remove cell phones from all instructional time. Three students join the conversation to share the student perspective. Cell phone use in schools has come under extensive examination recently and its presence is being carefully considered by schools all over the state and country in order to better support student learning and mental health.

Episode 80 - New RHS Leadership Team

Roxbury School District — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 08:51:15 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp sits down with Mr. Crispino, Mr. Mawn, and Ms. Posbergh, the new leadership team at Roxbury High School. They discuss the opening of the school year as well as the vision and goals of this exciting new team.

Episode 79 - Elementary WIN

Roxbury School District — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:40:58 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses a new program initiative that will be implemented at all K - 4 schools this year, the inclusion of a What I Need (WIN) period, with Mrs. Maurer, Mrs. McInnes, Mrs. Rex, Mrs. Cosgrove, and Mrs. Acevedo. This period will allow teachers across a grade level to work with targeted groups of students in a wide variety of ways. The entire grade level will be in WIN period together so no one will miss anything new during this time and it will be coordinated by all grade level teachers in the school. It represents the perfect balance of harnessing teacher strengths and collaboration with a focus on meeting individual and small groups of students' learning targets.

Episode 78 - Link It Partnership

Roxbury School District — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:39:22 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mrs. Maurer, and Mr. Schmidt discuss the district's exciting new partnership with Link It. They welcome the district's Account Manager, Gerard Marrone to share his expertise as he works directly with Roxbury staff to roll out this new program. Link It will provide the district with new ways to harvest data and use that data to develop student profiles and learning plans, but also allows the district to administer NJSLA predictive and aligned benchmark assessments.

Episode 77 - SAIL Summer Academy

Roxbury School District — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:49:53 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the tremendous value of the SAIL Summer Academy with the program coordinator and ELA Supervisor, Mrs. Maurer, as well as two teachers, Mrs. Renn and Mrs. Rusbach. They share their work to provide an impactful program that supports student learning and also enhances students, self image as a student.

Episode 76 - Information Literacy

Roxbury School District — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 14:27:46 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Trokan, and Mr. Schmidt discuss the impact of the new information literacy legislation and subsequent NJDOE guidance. They talk about the measure the district already took prior to this requirement as well as what the next steps look like in our school and in the educational landscape.

Episode 75 - Addressing Chronic Absenteeism

Roxbury School District — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 08:45:20 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the growing concern over chronic absenteeism with Dr. Zegar, and Dr. Matthew Murphy. They discuss the importance of attending school regularly as well as strategies that schools can take to support students with attendance.

Episode 74 - RHS Eagle Scouts and POG

Roxbury School District — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 07:40:22 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp hosts a few students and a teacher who have earned the distinction of being an Eagle Scout. They talk about how this accomplishment and the journey toward earning it has impacted them and also how the principles they learn along the way closely mirror the core elements of Roxbury's Portrait of a Graduate.

Episode 73 - SDF On Site House Build

Roxbury School District — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 15:12:52 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Caccavale discuss the exciting opportunity that was afforded to RHS Seniors in the SDF class to go on-site to help volunteers from Morris Habitat for Humanity as the house they built in Structural Design and Fabrication have the finishing touches put on it so a family can move in soon. These seniors and some of their classmates spent the better part of their last month working on location to ensure the house is ready for the family.

Episode 72 - RHS is a STEM School of Excellence

Roxbury School District — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 14:09:01 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Caccavale, Mr. Fiscina, Mr. Mawn, Mr. Taylor, Dr. Gottfried, and a student discuss Roxbury High School's recent recognition as a STEM School of Excellence by ITEEA...a very prestigious designation with Kelly Dooley, Executive Director of ITEEA. This award required the diligent work of many staff and students and we could not be more proud to have been recognized for their extraordinary efforts! Listen in to learn more about the award as well as those who have contributed to our programs.

Episode 71 - Contemporary World Issues and TEEEM

Roxbury School District — Tue, 28 May 2024 08:23:52 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Trokan talk with Mrs. Hamade, Ms. DeMaio (VP of TEEEM) as well as a few students about the district's partnership with TEEEM and FDU. This special dual enrollment program with FDU allows students an opportunity to deeply investigate world issues that they care about and actually work to design solutions.

Episode 70 - RHS Band Rox

Roxbury School District — Thu, 23 May 2024 10:42:28 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the Band program at RHS with Mr. Conrad and some music students. They talk about the accomplishments of the band program, but more importantly about the environment that supports the students as musicians, but also in their many other ventures. In an era where students time is often at a premium, the music program has figured out how to support students' success in a variety of areas.

Episode 69 - RHS Journalism

Roxbury School District — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:02:13 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the RHS Journalism program with Mrs. Santora and four of its leading members. They talk about the Journalism program as well as some of their operational protocols to ensure that they produce the highest quality work. This is truly an incredible career-oriented program!

Episode 68 - eSports at RHS

Roxbury School District — Fri, 10 May 2024 08:43:35 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp talks with Mr. Pitzer, Mr. Hellner, and a few students about the newly formed eSports team at Roxbury High School. This team has taken off and has tons of student interest. This program is just one more example of Roxbury working to design and implement opportunities that match students' interests.

Episode 67 - Tomorrow's Teachers

Roxbury School District — Mon, 06 May 2024 09:24:51 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp has the pleasure of speaking with a cadre of Tomorrow's Teachers students and their teacher, Mrs. Burleigh. Tomorrow's Teachers is a dual enrollment program with Kean University that supports students who want to enter the teaching profession with real-time experience in a variety of settings while they are enrolled at Roxbury High School. Hear about this amazing program from tomorrow's teachers!

Episode 66 - Celebrate Standardized Testing

Roxbury School District — Thu, 02 May 2024 16:06:12 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Argenziano discuss the importance and value of standardized testing. Yes, it is a requirement and provides the district with incredibly valuable data that supports learning, but more importantly than that it is an amazing opportunity for us to celebrate all the hard work that our teachers and students do all year long. In Roxbury, we are fortunate to have exceptional teachers, and student participation to the very best of their ability is one of the best ways to honor the commitment of their amazing teachers!

Episode 65 - Computer Science Evolution

Roxbury School District — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:47:37 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the expansion of the Computer Science program at Roxbury High School with Mr. Hayden, Mr. Fiscina, and some students. Given the changing professional landscape in technology, Roxbury High School has made a commitment to ensuring that students have opportunities to explore this learning space to support their future aspirations.

Episode 64 - Sports Media Marketing

Roxbury School District — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 17:40:46 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Bischoff speak with two students about the growth of the Sports Media Marketing program at Roxbury High School. This cross-curricular opportunity provides students with a wide variety of professional opportunities and unbridled agency. Mr. Bischoff has designed an opportunity where students can lead the athletic publishing efforts both in the school and through social media.

Episode 63 - Professional Partnerships

Roxbury School District — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:23:19 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the power of professional partnerships with Dr. LeeAnn Jung, Lead Inclusion, and Dr. Beth Fisher, Principal Bernardo Yorba MS. The three talk about the importance of matching school goals and needs with professional learning partnerships to implement an action plan for sustained support and improvement on a large scale.

Episode 62 - DBQ Project

Roxbury School District — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:26:41 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses a very exciting social studies initiative, The DBQ Project, with Mr. Torkan, Mr. Tomasheski, and Mr. Iturralde. These three social studies educators have used the DBQ Project to support high-quality learning through critical analysis of text and student-led dialogue.

Episode 61 - RHS Bowling

Roxbury School District — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 11:11:45 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the growth of the RHS Bowling program with three bowlers and their coach, Mr. Kevin Cantwell. The group discusses the growth and expansion of the team as well as their success this year, culminating as Morris County Champions, which is an incredible achievement. They also talk about goals for next year to keep the success going.

Episode 60 - Seal of Biliteracy

Roxbury School District — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 08:28:47 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Trokan talk about the "superpower" of being biliterate with three high school students who have earned the Seal of Biliteracy. Mr. Trokan and the students tell the story of their lived experience and how being multilingual has benefited them now and their plans for the future.

Episode 59 - The Power of Teacher Collaboration

Roxbury School District — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 08:45:42 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the power of teacher collaboration with the third grade team from Franklin Elementary School, Mr. Allison, Mrs. Mason, and Mr. Lane. The team shares how they have come to embrace such a strong partnership as well as the benefits of their incredible collaborative approach to planning, teaching, and reflecting. When time is such a commodity, listen to this episode to hear how collaboration with trusted, hard-working colleagues might prove to be a huge part of the answer.

Episode 58 - Read Across America and SEL Week

Roxbury School District — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:55:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the district's extensive plans to celebrate Read Across America and SEL Week with Ms. Bellardino, Ms. McInnes, Mrs. DiLorenzo, and Mrs. LaCosta. These three along with many other colleagues have planned an array of experiences for students and staff to celebrate both weeks simultaneously. Their efforts are further evidence that the district works hard to support all aspects of learning and reaching every student.

Episode 57 - Plumbing Skills Lab

Roxbury School District — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 07:49:26 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Mawn, and Mr. Caccavale talk with representatives from Ferguson and Explore the Trades talk about their partnership as well as how comprehensive schools work with organizations like these to ensure equitable access to vocational learning experiences for students. These experiences open up minds to a wide variety of potential career opportunities that otherwise would not be available to them.

Episode 56 - AmeriCorps NJ Watershed Project

Roxbury School District — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:57:06 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses an exciting learning collaboration at EMS, the AmeriCorps Watershed Project with Mr. Mawn, the Science Supervisor, Mr. Tatarka, Mr. Zavala, Mrs. Blewitt, EMS science teachers, and two EMS students. They discuss their experience learning alongside Chris, an AmeriCorps representative. Listen here to learn more about this exciting opportunity for our students.

Episode 55 - The Nightingale

Roxbury School District — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 14:15:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the evolution of Roxbury High School's award-winning literary magazine, "The Nightingale" with a past advisor, Mrs. Schmidt, a current advisor, Ms. Stellingwerf, and two current students. "The Nightingale" provides so much more than just authentic poems and pieces of writing from students...hear all about it in this episode!

Episode 54 - Structural Design and Fabrication

Roxbury School District — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:58:41 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp talks with Mr. Mawn, Mr. Caccavale, Mr. Martin, and two students about Roxbury's Structural Design and Fabrication program. This class partners with Morris Habitat for Humanity to build an entire modular home every two years from the ground up. Students talk about how this program has prepared them for life beyond RHS. This unique program offers students a unique learning experience rarely found in a comprehensive public high school.

Episode 53 - Impact of Learning Styles Mentality

Roxbury School District — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:19:29 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Zegar, Ms. Folkers, and Ms. Redwood discuss the recent research surrounding the debunking of Gardner's Learning Styles and the importance of flexibility in the learning environment to support the strengths of all students.

Episode 52 - Building Thinking Classrooms

Roxbury School District — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 12:20:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed a refreshing new mindset in math instruction based on Peter Liljedahl's book, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics. A group of teachers and students from Eisenhower Middle School talk about their experience with this framework, specifically thin-slicing lessons, as well as successes with its overall implementation.

Episode 51 - MTSS Tier 1 and Tier 2

Roxbury School District — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:12:27 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Zegar, and Ms. Bellardino take a deeper dive into what specifically MTSS Tier 1 and Tier 2 are as well as how students are supported in the MTSS structure. The discussion goes into detail about the tiers and strategies used to support students' growth.

Episode 50 - Assessment & Grade Reporting with Dr. Thomas Guskey

Roxbury School District — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 08:55:36 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Zegar, Ms. Bellardino, and Mr. Fiscina are joined by renowned educational thinker, Dr. Thomas Guskey. Dr. Guskey and our team discuss best practices in grade reporting and assessment, as well as strategies to transition grade reporting toward a more productive, transparent, and useful format where all stakeholders can gain insight into the learning process.

Episode 49 - Planning the High School Journey

Roxbury School District — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 07:41:43 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed planning the high school journey with Mr. Miller, Mrs. Mann, and Ms. Maher. They share the role the school counselors play in supporting students with the identification and pursuit of their goals and interests. They share how parents can be active participants in the planning of this journey as well as how both parents and counselors are part of a bigger collaboration with teachers, administration, and the students.

Episode 48 - Marching Gaels

Roxbury School District — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 15:33:27 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the amazing season that was just completed by the 2023 Marching Gaels with director, Mr. Sweer, and both Drum Majors. This was truly a remarkable season with a vision that has been years in the making. Hear all about the seasons as well as the amazing culture of our Marching Gaels!

Episode 47 - DIBELS 8 (MTSS Series)

Roxbury School District — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 11:09:21 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Ms. Bellardino, Mrs. Blessing, and Mrs. McInnes discuss DIBELS 8, Tier I Universal Screener, and the associated data collection tool, mClass. The ISL Team at Franklin and Nixon has worked very hard to secure a grant in partnership with Rutgers University to pilot the implementation of this tool and prepare all K - 3 colleagues in all four schools for large-scale rollout. Listen in to learn some great strategies to support early readers!

Episode 46 - Report Card Updates

Roxbury School District — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 15:40:25 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Zegar, Ms. Bellardino, and Mr. Fiscina discuss the updates to the district report cards as well as the rationale and research behind them, much of which was spearheaded by renowned educational leader and researcher, Dr. Thomas Guskey.

Episode 45 - What is MTSS?

Roxbury School District — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:41:28 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Santora, Dr. Zegar, and Ms. Bellardino discuss Multi-Tiered Systems of Support. They have an introductory conversation about what this is, how it fits into a modern school environment, and what parents can expect as a part of learning about how MTSS works to meet each student where they are and provide them with the appropriate level of support (behaviorally, academically, socially and/or emotionally).

Episode 44 - Loving Writing at the Elementary Level

Roxbury School District — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 13:55:00 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp chats with Ms. Bellardino, Ms. Montano, and Leah Steiner (Literacy Consultant) about the work they have been doing to support establishing a strong culture for writing. They also share some strategies that parents can use at home to help their children become more confident writers.

Episode 43 - Conferring and Feedback with Berit Gordon

Roxbury School District — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:47:17 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Schmidt discuss the work that has been happening at Roxbury High School in the English Department surrounding conferring with students and formulating high-quality feedback to support their reading and learning. Feedback is a critical element of growth and Berit has been an amazing partner in this work, constantly seeking to enhance our classroom experience.

Episode 42 - Artificial Intelligence in Schools (Part I)

Roxbury School District — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 15:21:17 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the emergence of Artificial Intelligence in schools...What is it? How is it impacting teaching and learning? How can it be used to enhance the learning experience? What are the perspectives of some staff and students regarding this disruption to the status quo? Dr. Seipp is joined by Mr. Schmidt, Mr. Mawn, Mr. Hansen, Mrs. Jameson, and two RHS students.

Episode 41 - Supporting MLLs

Roxbury School District — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:22:03 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Zegar, Mrs. DeRosario, and Ms. Davenport discuss strategies for supporting MLLs (Multi-Language Learners). They share ways the school district is working to support students and teachers by ensuring that the learning experience is positive, accessible, and supportive. They also share strategies about how to better understand the experience of non-native English speakers.

Episode 40 - Neurodiversity (Part II)

Roxbury School District — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:01:12 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp revisits the topic of neurodiversity with Ms. Perez, Ms. O'Connor, and two of her parents. Understanding neurodiversity is not only relevant but also makes our world one of greater appreciation, understanding, and acceptance. Hear strategies, tips, and experiences from various viewpoints so you can grow in your understanding of neurodiversity.

Episode 39 - Sports Medicine Academy

Roxbury School District — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:58:13 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the Sports Medicine Academy partnership with Morris County School of Technology with Mr. Mason, Mr. Koch, Mr. Forlenza, and four RHS students who are enrolled in the Academy. They discuss the history of the program as well as the experience of being a part of it.

Episode 38 - IPASS at Lincoln Roosevelt

Roxbury School District — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:05:41 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the Lincoln Roosevelt School IPASS initiative with Ms. Folkers, Ms. Davenport, Ms. DelRusso, and two students. IPASS is not just Lincoln Roosevelt's core values, it means much more to the school community and is celebrated through IPASS Day and throughout the school year.

Episode 37 - Fall Sports Impact at RHS

Roxbury School District — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:27:48 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Mason discuss what makes the athletic culture at RHS so special with fall coaches and athletes. Our coaches and athletes talk about the importance of culture, leadership, pride, tradition, and hard work as core elements of what makes their experience so rewarding and such an important part of their RHS journey.

Episode 36 - Grading and Assessment (Part 1)

Roxbury School District — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 08:51:24 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses grading and assessment practices including how the report card is transforming slowly to provide greater depth of information for students and parents regarding the learning process with Dr. Rohde, Mrs. Schmidt. Mr. Cantwell, Ms. Bellardino, and Mr. Fiscina. This conversation touches on many sensitive beliefs about the accuracy and importance of grades.

Episode 35 - ABLE in Schools

Roxbury School District — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:02:09 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Mason, and Mr. Monaco discuss the ABLE in Schools partnership with staff from ABLE in Action (and a special interview with their partner NY Jets Center, Connor McGovern). The group discussed the importance of schools providing a physical education experience that is accessible to all students. The district is partnering with ABLE to offer a unified PE experience in EMS and RHS.

Episode 34 - Neurodiversity

Roxbury School District — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:56:56 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Dr. Santora, Mrs. Gallagher, and Mrs. Perez open a conversation about neurodiversity seeking to shed light on some beginning questions such as: What is neurodiversity? How does neurodiversity impact the learning environment? What strategies can one use when interacting with others?

Episode 33 - Back to School

Roxbury School District — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 14:13:28 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Santora, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Argenziano, and Mrs. North discuss the back-to-school excitement as well as goals for the new year. They share highlights from the opening of the 23-24 school year and connect those highlights to the district goals. It has been an exciting opening of school and we are looking forward to an amazing school year!

Episode 32 - Invigorating HS Math with Eric MIlou

Roxbury School District — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 15:35:59 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mr. Fiscina discuss strategies for "invigorating HS Math" with Dr. Eric Milou, Rowan University Professor and author. Dr. Milou shares strategies about how HS math can be transformed into something that is relevant, important, and attainable for students and Mr. Fiscina shares the work he has done based on Dr. Milou's work to begin this transition at Roxbury High School.

Episode 31 - Transfer Goals

Roxbury School District — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 11:12:43 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Ms. Bellardino, Mr. Schmidt, and Mr. Fiscina discuss what Transfer Goals are and how they were developed in the district to support longitudinal curriculum design based on the work of Jay McTighe.

Episode 30 - Joy of Teaching with Berit Gordon

Roxbury School District — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:30:23 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Schmidt, and distinguished author, Berit Gordon, discuss strategies that can support teachers in recognizing and rekindling (when necessary) the joy they have for teaching young people. Teaching is an incredibly demanding profession but is immensely rewarding, therefore it is important to be mindful of how to keep the passion for the profession burning bright! Berit shares strategies and ideas from her book, "The Joyful Teacher"

Episode 29 - The Secret Lives of Assistant Principals

Roxbury School District — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 07:40:50 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the incredible role that Assistant Principals play in our schools alongside the School Counseling Department to support students in a wide variety of ways with Roxbury's four Assistant Principals, Dr. Zegar, Mrs. LaMonica, Mr. Crispino, and Ms. Hall, as well as District Director of School Counseling, Mrs. Mann.

Episode 28 - Sports Injury Prevention

Roxbury School District — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 10:27:21 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the variety of supports provided to student-athletes in order to prevent injury and support readiness to compete by the Roxbury High School's Athletic Trainers, Mr. Koch and Mr. Forlenza, with the trainers and Mr. Mason.

Episode 27 - Erik Francis DOK

Roxbury School District — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 13:59:04 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Ms. Bellardino, and Dr. Zegar discuss with renowned educational researcher and author, Erik Francis, the impact that the deconstruction of standards and the alignment with Depth of Knowledge (DOK) tiers can have as it relates to supporting a higher level of student learning. Erik has been supporting the Roxbury Schools in this effort and continues to maintain a relationship with them as this work continues.

Episode 26 - Preparing for the Transition to Secondary Buildings

Roxbury School District — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 13:26:31 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses how parents and students can prepare for the transition to the secondary buildings (LRS, EMS, and RHS) with Mr. Argenziano, Mr. Gallagher, and Mr. Miller, the principals of those schools. The principals share strategies for preparing as well as measures the schools have taken in support of a successful start of the year as well as some programs that are in place once the year starts.

Episode 25 - Preparing for Kindergarten

Roxbury School District — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 12:06:34 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses strategies for parents preparing for their child to begin kindergarten in September with Mr. Hamer, Ms. Bellardino, Mrs. Kelly, and Mrs. Maurer. The start of kindergarten can definitely cause nervousness but should be a very exciting time. The strategies and information shared in this discussion are intended to support parents and children prepare for this transition.

Episode 24 - AP and Dual Enrollment

Roxbury School District — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 09:10:29 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and RHS administration discuss AP courses and Dual Enrollment agreements. They weigh the pros and cons of both and also explain how students need to consider their future journey when deciding how to prepare for their course load during their time at RHS.

Episode 23 - Continuum of Services

Roxbury School District — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:48:03 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the layers and elements that comprise the continuum of services provided in Roxbury with Mrs. Gallagher, Mr. DeBarros, Mrs. Mosher, and Ms. Dressel. They discuss the variety of support structures that seek to assist students with the opportunities to meet with success based on individual needs. This includes the I&RS process, 504s, and IEP eligibility.

Episode 22 - Expository Writing at RHS

Roxbury School District — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 11:38:18 -0400

In this episode, Mr. Schmidt discusses the excitement and challenges of Roxbury High School's Duel Enrollment partnership with Rutgers University for their Freshman Expository Writing Class with the class's teacher, Ms. Stellingwerf, and two students.

Episode 21 - Jen Serravallo

Roxbury School District — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:12:00 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Ms. Bellardino, and Mr. Schmidt are joined by literacy consultant Leah Steiner, and acclaimed researcher and pedagogy leader, Jen Serravallo. The group discusses the nuances of impactful reading and writing instruction emphasizing intentionality in practice, and student-centered approaches.

Episode 20 - Summer Learning in Roxbury

Roxbury School District — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:17:58 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and the Curriculum and Instruction Supervisors discuss the history of the Summer Learning Program in Roxbury as well as the rationale behind the current model and ways that students (and parents) and connect with high-interest experiences through the summer so they are sharp and ready to return to school next year.

Here is the Summer Learning Letter for 23-24.

Here is the flyer for parental training sessions that Mr. Schmidt mentions at the end.

Episode 19 - Library Media Design

Roxbury School District — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:07:48 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the new K - 4 Library Media Design program with Mr. Siegel, Mrs. DiLorenzo, and two students. This exciting new program combines literacy, problem, solving, and collaboration as a new iteration of traditional elementary specials (Library and Computers). Students are provided opportunities to explore a variety of tools and resources to accomplish tasks and solve problems.

Episode 18 - Teacher Coach_Meredith Maffeo-Spitzer

Roxbury School District — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 16:26:03 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp and Mrs. Gallagher talk to Mrs. Maffeo-Spitzer about her role as a Teacher Coach as a part of the district's plan to recover from the impact of COVID. Mrs. Maffeo-Spitzer has met with and supported a wide variety of staff members to reflect upon and improve their practice while also embracing their complex role as a teacher. She supports staff with feeling confident in their growth as an educator in an increasingly complex professional landscape.

Episode 17 - Academic Research at RHS

Roxbury School District — Thu, 25 May 2023 12:40:02 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the high-level academic research being conducted by students under the supervision of Ms. Theodoropoulos with three students. These very impressive students (and their classmates) are conducting college-level research and working to close research gaps in the process.

Episode 16 - Related Services Delivery Model

Roxbury School District — Thu, 25 May 2023 12:36:26 -0400

In this episode, Mr. DeBarros and Mrs. Gallagher discuss how the Roxbury Public Schools provide related services to students so that students have the opportunity to meet with success and grow while still having access to participate in all aspects of their learning experience and also allow professionals to collaborate with Ms. Babus and Ms. Evans.

Episode 15 - Math Pathways

Roxbury School District — Fri, 19 May 2023 10:05:59 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed current adjustments to the mathematics sequence and the forthcoming development of mathematics pathways at Roxbury High School with Mrs. Kelly and Mr. Fiscina. Mrs. Kelly and Mr. Fiscina have worked very hard to align the curriculum plan to the expectations of the standards, and also to meet the growing evolution of student goals.

Episode 14 - UDL - LeeAnn Jung

Roxbury School District — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:25:02 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the district's partnership with Dr. LeeAnn Jung with Mrs. LaMonica and Mrs. Gallagher. Dr. Jung shares the core concepts of UDL and explains her work with the district as well as how a UDL design supports all students to have the opportunity to meet with success.

Episode 13 - Mindfulness - Amy Rubin

Roxbury School District — Thu, 04 May 2023 14:32:23 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mrs. Cosgrove and Mrs. Billeci discuss the district's efforts to support wellness and mindfulness in partnership with Amy Rubin, Mindfulselff.com. Amy Rubin has been supporting district staff and students for a number of years through a wide variety of programs. Thanks to LeeAnn Jung for sharing research information about the impact of Mindfulness.

Episode 12 - Senior Options at RHS

Roxbury School District — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 15:05:57 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the impact that Senior Options can have on student opportunities both during their senior year and after high school with three current students and Mrs. Mann.

Episode 11 - Debunking the Idea of the "Math Person"

Roxbury School District — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:50:47 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Fiscina, Mrs. Kelly, and Mrs. Jameson work to debunk the concept and notion of the "math person". They talk about how anyone can be good at math and strategies that students can use to overcome the notion that math may not be for them. Math is all around us in the world, and recognizing its importance, even when it requires some struggle will lead to a more positive outlook on one's ability to meet with success in math.

Episode 10 - Portrait of a Graduate in Roxbury

Roxbury School District — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 15:53:15 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the development of Portrait of a Graduate in Roxbury with Dr. Radulic, Dr. Zegar, Mrs. Cosgrove, and Mr. Schmidt. They discuss the process the district used to develop the foundational themes and design language that is age appropriate based on community feedback. They also talk about strategies that have been used to integrate the themes and competencies of the district's Portrait of a Graduate into the everyday learning experience and overall learning community.

Episode 9 - P.E.A.K at Jefferson Elementary

Roxbury School District — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:36:38 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses P.E.A.K. with three students and two teachers from Jefferson Elementary School. P.E.A.K. is how the district offered enrichment (gifted) opportunities to all students in grades K - 4. Dr. Rohde and Mrs. Erdreich talk about how they coordinate with grade-level colleagues to provide students with exciting opportunities. The students share their insights and excitement about the projects they have the opportunity to engage with.

Episode 8 - Book Love with Berit Gordon

Roxbury School District — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 09:17:43 -0400

In this episode, Mr. Schmidt discusses the Book Love initiative at RHS with Mrs. Schmidt and Berit Gordon, author of No More Fake Reading. Also, hear from two students who share their perspectives on this initiative and how it has impacted their learning experience.

Episode 7 - Questioning with Erik Francis

Roxbury School District — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 12:16:30 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discussed the professional learning structures that are being implemented in Roxbury surrounding questioning in the classroom with Erik Francis. The topic of questioning in the classroom has emerged as an area for growth based on classroom data. Erik's book, Now That's a Good Question, has been a terrific support structure with this work. Erik has partnered with Roxbury for a few years supporting this need by working with teachers in various professional learning opportunities.

Episode 6 - Aviation at RHS

Roxbury School District — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 15:50:02 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Mawn, Dr. Gottfried, and Mr. Blough discuss how the Aviation program "took flight" at Roxbury High School. They also hear from three students who have been instrumental in the establishment of the program's success alongside their teachers.

Episode 5 - Elementary Math

Roxbury School District — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:46:40 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Seipp discusses the idea of "new math" with Mrs. Maurer, Dr. Rhode, and Mrs. Kelly. They talk deeply about the district's elementary mathematics program elements and instructional strategies as well as how mathematical learning connections are embedded in the instructional format.

Episode 4 - Luke Stanich NJ Wrestling Champion

Roxbury School District — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 10:51:53 -0400

In this episode, Mr. Mason and Mr. Roman chat with recently crowned 126-pound NJ Wrestling Champion, Luke Stanich. They discuss his career, his tournament run, and his commitment to academics as he looks forward to wrestling and studying at Lehigh University. Luke also talks about how important it was to him to represent the town he grew up in by wrestling for his hometown high school.

Episode 3: Elementary Literacy with Leah Steiner

Roxbury School District — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:24:56 -0400

In this episode, Ms. Bellardino, Mrs. Rex, and Dr. Seipp speak with Literacy Consultant, Leah Steiner, regarding best practices in elementary literacy instruction, Leah's work in Roxbury, and connections to Jennifer Serravallo's book, The Reading Strategies Book 2.0.

Episode 2: Rox-Thon

Roxbury School District — Sat, 25 Mar 2023 14:20:00 -0400

In this episode, Mr. Mawn is joined by leadership from RHS Rox-thon who talk about the event and the program. This exciting student organization has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through hours of tireless hard work and incredibly generous donations from our community to contribute to raising awareness and funding to support the battle against pediatric cancer.

Episode 1: Introduction...Why Podcasts?

Roxbury School District — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:02:00 -0400

In Episode 1, Dr. Radulic, Dr. Seipp, Mr. Coakley, Mr. Miller, and Ms. Bellardino provide an overview of why Roxbury Public Schools are going to begin producing and publishing podcasts. They provide some teasers about upcoming episodes along with the rationale...a desire to share in a broader way, the amazing elements that are part of an educational experience in Roxbury.