Kids First Podcast - A Charter School Podcast with Chris Neeley

Sep 10 2024 29 ep. 29 mins 2
Kids First Podcast - A Charter School Podcast with Chris Neeley artwork

Host Chris Neeley is the Superintendent of the South Carolina Public Charter School District and the father of three amazing kids. He has seen time and time again the pain that a lack of access and choice in education can cause...but he has also seen the beauty and joy that educational autonomy can create. We talk to educators, school leaders, policymakers, and charter school acolytes about their stories. We always start with “why” here…because it’s not just about a job, occupation, or field; it's about why we do what we do.

  Education
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Keys to Success: Charter School Governance, Community Engagement, and Financial Management

Sep 10 2024 31 mins  
In this episode of Kids First Podcast, we explore the essential elements that set successful charter schools apart—strong board governance, community engagement, and sound financial management. Our special guest, John Payne, who served on the founding committee of Bridges Preparatory School in Beaufort, SC, and as former Chairman of the South Carolina Public Charter School Distri

Growing Futures: A Look Inside Felton Laboratory Charter School with Dr. Jean Graddick

Sep 06 2024 20 mins  
In this exciting episode of the Kids First Podcast, host Keven Cohen and Superintendent Chris Neeley welcome Dr. Jean Graddick, Director of Felton Laboratory Charter School. Join us as Dr. Graddick takes us on a journey through the rich history and innovative approach of Felton Lab Charter School, where students thrive in a STEAM-focused, hands-on learning environment. Learn abou

Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Michelle McDonald, PCSD Teacher of the Year

Aug 30 2024 20 mins  
In this captivating episode, hosts Chris Neeley and Keven Cohen explore the remarkable achievements of Dr. Michelle McDonald, who was celebrated as the PCSD Teacher of the Year. Join them as they explore her innovative journey at Liberty STEAM Charter School in Sumter, S.C., where her educational leadership inspires students and educators alike. Discover how Dr. McDonald's unw

Empowering the Future: Tom Cronin's Vision for GREEN Charter Schools

Aug 27 2024 21 mins  
Chris and Kevin Cohen talk with Tom Cronin, Executive Director of GREEN Charter Schools, to explore his transformative journey in education leadership. Since 2021, Tom has expanded GREEN from a single school to multiple campuses across South Carolina, all while staying true to the mission of equipping students with the skills needed to make a global impact. Learn about all the fan

Breaking Barriers: Katrina Simmons and the Power of Second Chances at The Palmetto Excel Center - A Kids First Podcast Special

Feb 07 2024 22 mins  
Welcome to a special episode of Kids First Podcast, where we dive into the powerful narrative of Katrina Simmons, a remarkable student from The Palmetto Excel Center Adult High School. Katrina's story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, showcasing the belief that 'Every adult deserves a second chance at education.' In our conversation, she sheds light on how The Palmet

Champion for Change: Melissa Rabon's Crusade for Inclusive Education

Jan 12 2024 23 mins  
Join us on this week's Kids First podcast as we introduce Melissa Rabon, a dedicated advocate for equal educational opportunities and a National Board-certified secondary English teacher with over a decade of experience. Melissa has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between general and special education, aligning perfectly with the mission of the South Carolina Public C

Charter Champions: The Renaissance Crew's Innovative Leap in Student Leadership at Fox Creek High School

Dec 14 2023 27 mins  
Welcome to today's episode of the Kids First Podcast. Today, we focus on the trailblazing program at Fox Creek High School - the Renaissance Crew, or Ren-Crew for short. This initiative is a shining testament to the immense power of student leadership in fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. At the heart of the Ren-Crew are three extraordinary students - Jessica Ol

Shaping Success with Erik Weir: Unleashing Financial Acumen and Entrepreneurial Insights for Tomorrow's Leaders

Nov 07 2023 24 mins  
Get ready for a compelling episode of the Kids First Podcast. We're thrilled to welcome a very special guest, Erik Weir, the principal of WCM Global Wealth LLC. As a leader in wealth management, Erik serves an impressive roster of clients, including Grammy-winning artists, sports icons, international fashion moguls, and even Forbes-listed billionaires. His expertise ranges from

Soaring High with Doug Adomatis: Inspiring the Future Trailblazers of Aviation

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In this episode of Kids First Podcast, we're joined by the multi-talented Doug Adomatis, an educator, pilot, amateur radio operator, and advanced open-water SCUBA diver. With a mission to mold the future trailblazers of aviation, Doug brings his passion for flying into the Greenville Technical Charter High School classroom. From his transition from successful entrepreneur to i

Valerie Dix - A Journey of Passion and Innovation with 2023 District Teacher of the Year

Sep 07 2023 15 mins  
Welcome to a riveting new episode of the 'Kids First Podcast'. We're thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with Valerie Dix, the esteemed 2023 District Teacher of the Year. A passionate educator and a beacon in the realm of Spanish and Divergent Learning, Valerie's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Valerie opens up about her fascinati