In the Pike County Schools Excellence in Education Podcast, host Jeff sits down with school leaders from across Pike County to highlight the incredible work happening in our classrooms and communities. Each episode features insightful conversations with principals from local schools and Superintendent Freddie Bowling, diving into the programs, achievements, and people that make Pike County Schools a place of pride and progress.
Tune in to hear how our educators are shaping the future—one student at a time.
What’s New at Elkhorn Elementary? | Principal Amber Cantrell on Excellence in Education
The Excellence in Education Podcast is back, and this week Jeff sits down once again with Elkhorn Elementary Principal Amber Cantrell to talk about all the exciting things happening with the Cougars during the 2026-27 school year.
From the archery and dance programs that got their start last year to new opportunities and goals for students this year, Cantrell gives an inside look at how Elkhorn Elementary continues to grow. She and Jeff also discuss what the school learned from last year, what students and families can look forward to, and what the Cougars hope to accomplish throughout the new school year.
Catch up with Elkhorn Elementary and learn more about the students, staff and programs that make the school a special part of Pike County Schools.
Watch the Excellence in Education Podcast on YouTube: https://linktr.ee/excellenceined
28 Aug 2026
Back to School at Johns Creek | Principal Jason Sanson on Excellence in Education
A new school year means new conversations on the Excellence in Education Podcast! To kick off the year, Jeff sits down with longtime Pike County educator and second-year Johns Creek Principal Jason Sanson.
Sanson shares his background in education, his journey to becoming principal at Johns Creek, and what he learned during his first year leading the school. He and Jeff also look ahead to the new school year, the programs and opportunities available to students, and some of the great things happening throughout Johns Creek.
Start the new school year with Excellence in Education and get to know one of the leaders helping shape the future of Pike County Schools.
Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6Mr8OGyA2Uo
9 Jun 2026
Bevins Elementary Spotlight | Principal Sandy Merrill Shares Her Story and Vision
Bevins Elementary Principal Sandy Merrill joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast as the series highlighting principals and leaders across Pike County Schools continues.
Merrill shares her background in education, her journey into school leadership, and what led her to Bevins Elementary. The conversation also explores the many great things happening at the school, including student achievement, school culture, staff collaboration, and the programs helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
This episode offers a closer look at the leadership, dedication, and community spirit that make Bevins Elementary a special place for students and families.
28 May 2026
Feds Creek Elementary Spotlight | Principal Melinda Potter Joins the Excellence in Education Podcast
First-year Feds Creek Elementary Principal Melinda Potter joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk all things Feds Creek.
Take a deep dive into Potter’s background, her journey into education and leadership, and how she became principal at Feds Creek Elementary. The conversation also highlights the many positive things happening throughout the school, including student success, school culture and the goals shaping the future of the Wildcats.
This episode offers a closer look at new leadership and the continued commitment to excellence at Feds Creek Elementary.
14 May 2026
Pike Central Band Spotlight | Jason Johnson Talks Music, Ensembles and Tradition of Excellence
Pike Central Bands Director Jason Johnson joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk about the many great things happening within the Pike Central band program.
From the wide variety of classes and ensembles available to students to the accomplishments and accolades the program has earned over the years, Johnson gives an inside look at what makes Pike Central’s music program stand out. The conversation also explores student opportunities, the growth of the program and the dedication it takes to maintain a tradition of excellence.
Whether you are a student, parent, music supporter or part of the Pike County Schools community, this episode offers a closer look at one of the district’s successful and long-standing programs.
4 May 2026
Phelps Elementary Spotlight | Principal Elizabeth Bentley on the Excellence in Education Podcast
First-year Phelps Elementary Principal Elizabeth Bentley joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk about her journey into education and leadership, along with the great things happening at Phelps Elementary.
Bentley discusses how she got started in education, her transition into the principal role, and the goals she has for students, staff and the school community. The conversation also highlights student achievement, school culture and the work being done every day to help Phelps students succeed.
This episode offers a strong look at new leadership and the positive momentum building at Phelps Elementary.
25 Mar 2026
Millard School Spotlight | Principal Jake Robinson on the Excellence in Education Podcast
Millard School Principal Jake Robinson joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a conversation centered on everything happening at Millard.
Robinson breaks down academic priorities, student achievement, school culture and the day-to-day work that goes into supporting students and staff. The discussion also highlights key programs, community involvement and the vision guiding Millard moving forward.
This episode offers a clear, honest look at how Millard School is building success in the classroom and beyond.
23 Feb 2026
Elkhorn Elementary Spotlight | Principal Amber Cantrell on the Excellence in Education Podcast
Elkhorn Elementary Principal Amber Cantrell joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a focused conversation on student success, school culture, and leadership at Elkhorn Elementary.
Cantrell discusses academic priorities, support systems for students, staff collaboration, and the initiatives helping Elkhorn Elementary continue to grow. The episode highlights the work happening inside the classrooms, the goals for the year ahead, and the commitment to creating a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
If you want a clear look at what’s driving progress at Elkhorn Elementary and across Pike County Schools, this episode delivers.
5 Feb 2026
Belfry Elementary Spotlight | Principal Katie Schram Joins the Excellence in Education Podcast
Belfry Elementary Principal Katie Schram joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a conversation focused on leadership, learning, and the future of Belfry Elementary. As a first-year principal, Schram shares her early experiences, priorities for the school, and the work being done to support students, teachers, and families.
The discussion covers classroom culture, student achievement, staff collaboration, and the goals shaping the year ahead. This episode offers a clear look at how Belfry Elementary is building strong foundations for success under new leadership.
19 Jan 2026
Dorton Wildcats Spotlight | Principal Thomas Pinion on the Excellence in Education Podcast
Dorton School Principal Thomas Pinion joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk all things Wildcats. From academics and student growth to school culture, leadership, and community involvement, Pinion breaks down what’s happening inside Dorton School and the vision driving the Wildcats forward.
They discuss current initiatives, student achievements, and the commitment to creating a positive learning environment for every student. This episode offers a clear look at how Dorton School continues to build strong foundations for success both in and out of the classroom.
A must-listen for parents, students, staff, and anyone proud to support the Dorton Wildcats and Pike County Schools.
12 Jan 2026
Belfry High School Spotlight | Principal Boo Hager on the Excellence in Education
Belfry High School Principal Boo Hager joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a focused conversation on everything happening at Belfry High School. From academics and student achievement to athletics, school culture, and community pride, Hager breaks down what makes Belfry one of the most respected schools in the region.
They discuss current initiatives, goals for the future, and how the staff and students continue to set high standards both in and out of the classroom. This episode offers a clear look at leadership, accountability, and the commitment to excellence that defines Belfry High School.
Whether you are a parent, student, alumnus, or community supporter, this is a must-listen conversation about Bulldog pride and educational success in Pike County.
5 Dec 2025
Shelby Valley Spotlight | Principal Greg Napier Joins the Excellence in Education Podcast
Shelby Valley Principal Greg Napier joins host Jeff for an in-depth conversation about everything happening at Shelby Valley. From academic initiatives and student support efforts to athletics, culture, and community partnerships, Napier offers a clear look at what’s driving success at the school.
This episode highlights the programs shaping student achievement, the vision for the year ahead, and the work happening behind the scenes to keep Shelby Valley moving forward. A strong, informative discussion for parents, students, staff, and anyone invested in Pike County Schools.
19 Nov 2025
Pike County Schools Results Explained | Superintendent Freddie Bowling Breaks Down the Data
Pike County Schools Superintendent Freddie Bowling joins host Russ Cassady for a special episode focused entirely on the newly released results. Bowling walks through the data, explains what it means for students and staff, and outlines the district’s next steps.
This episode delivers a clear, candid look at performance indicators, growth areas, and district-wide accomplishments. If you want an informed, straightforward understanding of how Pike County Schools measured up this year, this conversation breaks it all down.
7 Nov 2025
Phelps High Principal Mike Hamilton on School Pride and Excellence | Pike County Schools Podcast
In this episode of The Pike County Schools Excellence in Education Podcast, Jeff sits down with Phelps High School Principal Mike Hamilton to talk about the exciting things happening at Phelps. From student achievements and new initiatives to the strong sense of community and pride that defines the Hornet spirit, Mike shares what it truly means to be a Phelps Hornet and how the school continues to push for excellence in education.
30 Oct 2025
East Ridge Principal Eric Bartley | Excellence in Education Podcast
In the very first episode of the Pike County Schools Excellence in Education Podcast, Jeff sits down with East Ridge High School Principal Eric Bartley to talk about the exciting things happening at East Ridge. From student success stories and academic achievements to new programs and community involvement, Eric shares his perspective on what makes East Ridge a standout school in Pike County.
Tune in to learn more about the vision, leadership, and dedication driving excellence in education across the district.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Contact Pike County Schools Excellence in Education
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Pike County Schools Excellence in Education?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
