9: Redefining High School Math in Genesee County | Amber Zavicar

In this episode of Inside Education!, host Eddie Kindle, Associate Superintendent at GISD talks with Chad Hagstrom, Attendance Liaison Officer, GISD and Laura Garrison, Principal at Dye Elementary, Carman Ainsworth Schools about why attendance matters and what it means to be an Attendance HERO — Here, Everyday, Ready to Learn, and On Time.They explore some of the challenges that can impact attendance. They also discuss resources available to support families, and ways schools can encourage and celebrate attendance. Most importantly, they share how schools can help students feel connected, supported, and ready for success.

One year after launching Inside Education! Where Education Meets Innovation, we welcome back our very first guest, GISD Superintendent Dr. Tunnicliff, for a special anniversary episode. The episode reflects on the podcast's first year, celebrates the milestones and progress happening across Genesee ISD, and discusses the future of education in Genesee County. From innovation and student success to strategic priorities and what's ahead, this conversation offers an inside look at the work shaping opportunities for students, educators, and communities throughout the region.

In this episode of Inside Education!, we spotlight the Genesee Opportunity (GO) Stipend and the GISD Career Connection Center—two programs working together to help Genesee County graduates take their next steps after high school. From funding for college, career training, or certification programs to hands-on support with applications, career exploration, and more, these resources are designed to remove barriers and create clear pathways for success.Don’t miss it! Tune in to hear from Hannah Johnson, Career Connection Specialist at Genesee Intermediate School District, and learn how these programs are helping students build their futures.

This episode of Inside Education! takes a closer look at high school math and whether traditional approaches meet the needs of today’s students.Host Eddie Kindle is joined by Amber Zavicar, K–12 Math Specialist at Genesee Intermediate School District to discuss Algebra II and Data Science. They explore how it’s changing the way students experience math and what it could mean for the future of math education.

In this episode of Inside Education!, we explore how strong partnerships are creating meaningful job opportunities for Transition Center adult students with disabilities through Project SEARCH.Host Eddie Kindle is joined by Jan Cox, Principal at the GISD Transition Center; Josh Caswell, GISD Project SEARCH Coordinator; and Brendan Birchmeier, Meijer Store Director. Together, they discuss how this innovative program combines classroom instruction with hands-on job training to help young adult students with disabilities build the skills and confidence needed for competitive employment.From real-world experiences at Genesee County Parks and Meijer to the expansion of new program sites, the conversation highlights the power of collaboration between schools, businesses, and community partners.Tune in to learn how Project SEARCH is preparing students with disabilities for success in the workplace and beyond.

This episode of Inside Education! explores how participation in school athletics builds skills that extend far beyond the field and court.Joining host Eddie Kindle are student athletes Reese Redlich of Swartz Creek and Colton Burnett of Goodrich, who share how balancing academics, career-focused programs at Genesee Career Institute (GCI), and competitive sports have shaped their leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Reese, a nursing student active in volleyball and softball, and Colton, a welding student and football player, reflect on the lessons learned through athletics, and how those experiences are preparing them for future careers and life beyond high school.Tune in to hear their inspiring stories and discover how athletics helps build skills for success.

Inside Education! – Getting Career Ready at Genesee Career Institute.In this episode of Inside Education!, host Eddie Kindle sits down with Mr. Jason Carlisle, Principal at Genesee Career Institute along with two outstanding GCI students to explore what it truly means to be career ready in today’s world. Together, they dive into the growing demand for Career and Technical Education (CTE), the real-world skills students are gaining at GCI, and the exciting programs shaping future professionals in Genesee County.Tune in to hear firsthand how CTE is opening doors to opportunity and get a sneak peek at GCI’s upcoming Enrollment Open House.

In this episode of Inside Education!, we explore how human connection builds safe, welcoming school environments. Join GISD’s Executive Director of Safety and Security and a few School Resource Officers (SROs) as they share how genuine relationships with students and staff foster trust, security, and belonging.From proactive presence to open conversations, learn how safety teams and schools work together to prevent issues and ensure students feel seen, heard, and safe. Tune in for an inspiring look at why connection is one of the strongest tools in school safety.

In this episode of Inside Education , host Eddie Kindle sits down with Corrine Walworth, Coordinator for the Genesee County Career and College Access Network, to explore how high school seniors can plan for life after graduation. From breaking down the FAFSA and Michigan Achievement Scholarship to highlighting the new Community College Guarantee, Corrine shares valuable insights and resources to help students and families navigate the path to college or career training. Tune in and discover how the right tools, timing, and support can open doors to incredible opportunities!

In this episode, Dr. Mary Behm, Assistant Superintendent of Education and Learning, shares how students can stay curious, connected, and learning all summer long. From outdoor adventures and English Language programs to reading challenges and the Mobile Education Lab, Genesee County is bursting with opportunities.Plus, Dr. Behm will also share simple, practical tips for parents to keep learning alive at home.Tune in and discover how students, families, and educators can turn summer into a season of growth!