Inside La Porte Schools

Hosted by Superintendent Sandra Wood, “Inside La Porte Schools” is designed to provide an in-depth look at programs, initiatives, and stories across the school district through authentic conversations with administrators, teachers, staff, students, and families. You can find the podcast on the following sites:

Inside La Porte Schools

Episodes

    1. Inside Kesling Campus: Part One

    The inaugural episode is a two-part conversation that features a candid discussion about the Kesling campus and fifth-grade programming. It addresses community questions and showcases the evolution and improvements made over the past six years. Listen Now!

    2. Inside Kesling Campus: Part Two

    Join Dr. Wood, Principal Bill Wilmsen, Counselor Melissa Mrozinski, and Teacher Laurie Scroggin as they explore the unique advantages of the Kesling Campus model. After addressing initial challenges in Part 1, this episode highlights how combining grades 5-8 creates unique opportunities for student growth, specialized programming, and smoother transitions. Learn why this innovative approach may offer significant benefits for La Porte students.

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    3. Inside Early Childhood Learning

    Episode three dives into the history and future of early childhood learning at the La Porte Community School Corporation. Listen Now!

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    4. Inside LPHS and the Indiana Diploma Changes

    In this episode of Inside La Porte Schools, Superintendent Sandra Wood welcomes Principal Scott Upp from La Porte High School and Director of Career and Technical Education Jen Goss to discuss Indiana's new high school diploma requirements. The conversation explores how these changes will create more personalized educational paths for students through three new diploma seals: Enrollment (college-bound), Employment (workforce-ready), and Enlistment (military preparation). The discussion covers La Porte High School's extensive preparations for these changes, including their CTE pathways, 75+ dual credit opportunities, and innovative work-based learning programs that will give La Porte students advantages in whatever path they choose after graduation. Listen Now!

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    5. Slicer Stories: Senior Reflections - Part One

    Step inside La Porte Schools for inspiring conversations with three members of the Class of 2025. This episode on Inside La Porte Schools, we bring you real stories of growth, preparation, and bright futures as we sit down with Luke Cannon, Chase Moore, and Mason Kovalcin to discuss their high school journeys and next steps.

    Luke shares his path to Purdue University's Mitch Daniels School of Business, where his passion for mathematics and finance will take center stage. Chase discusses his plans for Ball State University's media production program, building on his love for videography and camera work developed through LPHS's media classes. Mason reflects on his decision to serve in the United States Army, following in his family's footsteps of military service.

    These three seniors offer genuine insights into how La Porte High School has prepared them for their diverse futures - from college academics to creative careers to military service. They share advice for incoming freshmen, reflect on the close-knit nature of their graduating class, and express gratitude to the teachers, coaches, and family members who supported their growth.

    Join us for this heartfelt conversation that celebrates the unique paths our Slicers take and the foundation La Porte Schools provides for success in whatever direction life leads. Listen now.

    6. Slicer Stories: Senior Reflections - Part Two

    Step inside La Porte Schools for another inspiring conversation with two members of the Class of 2025. In this Inside La Porte Schools episode, we continue our "Slicer Stories" series with Drew Bush and Natalie Gartland as they share their high school journeys and future plans.

    Drew, our class valedictorian, discusses his path to Notre Dame University, where he'll study political science and finance with aspirations for law school. He reflects on earning the prestigious AP Capstone diploma and how rigorous coursework like AP Research prepared him for college-level academics. Natalie shares her journey to IU Bloomington's nursing program, building on extensive healthcare certifications earned through LPHS's robust nursing pathway, including CNA and EKG certifications.

    Both seniors emphasize the profound family atmosphere at La Porte High School, from teachers who invest countless hours in student success to administrators who create genuine connections. They share candid stories about overcoming academic failures, the power of dual credit opportunities, and how dedicated educators like Mr. Olson, Mr. Sherrick, and Ms. Hughes shaped their paths.

    These conversations highlight the depth of preparation LPHS provides - from advanced coursework that challenges students to supportive relationships that sustain them through difficult moments. Drew and Natalie offer heartfelt advice about embracing failure as growth, finding your people, and making the most of the family you gain at La Porte High School.

    Join us for this meaningful discussion, showcasing academic excellence, personal growth, and the lasting bonds formed within our Slicer community. Listen here.

Gallery

Inside Early Childhood Learning
Inside Early Childhood Learning

Step inside LPCSC early childhood learning with Little Learners Principal Becky Jeffers and Preschool Teacher Jeannette Raymond to discover the district's research-based curriculum, inclusion practices, and plans for a new Early Childhood Center. Learn how this center will expand opportunities for La Porte's youngest learners through full-day programs, transitional kindergarten, and greater access for working families.

Inside Kesling Campus
Inside Kesling Campus

This inaugural episode is the first installment of a two-part conversation that features a candid discussion with Principal Bill Wilmsen, Counselor Melissa Mrozinski, and 5th Grade Teacher Laurie Scroggin about the Kesling campus and fifth-grade programming. It addresses community questions and showcases the evolution and improvements made over the past six years.

Thank you for your support!

The La Porte Community School Corporation would like to thank their friends at the La Porte County Public Library for their support. The "Inside La Porte Schools" Podcast is recorded at the audio studio in the LPCPL Exchange building.