The SUSD Spotlight podcast is Scottsdale Unified School District’s official podcast featuring co-hosts Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel and Director of Communications & Marketing, Kristine Harrington, interviewing a wide-range of guests. The stories ”spotlighted” showcase the best of the SUSD’s community of students, alumni, parents, staff members, and community partners and exemplify the district’s commitment to engaging all students in word-class, future-focused learning.
On the 2025-26 season finale of the SUSD Spotlight Podcast, we sit down with someone who has truly helped shape generations of students in Scottsdale. We’re joined by Roni Scholz of Ingleside Middle School, who is celebrating 50 years in the Scottsdale Unified School District.
In this conversation, Roni reflects on the moments, challenges, and successes that have defined her five decades in education. She shares how teaching has evolved over the years, what has remained constant about supporting students, and why the influence of a dedicated educator can extend far beyond a student's time in the classroom. Her story is a testament to the lasting impact teachers have on the lives of young people and the communities they serve.
29 May 2026
Redfield is an A+ School of Excellence
Redfield Elementary has been named a 2026 A+ School of Excellence® by the Arizona Educational Foundation, a prestigious honor that recognizes schools going above and beyond in all the ways that matter most.
Joining us today to talk about being recognized as an A+ School of Excellence is principal Amanda Rand.
*This episode was recorded prior to the end of the school year.
22 May 2026
Desert Mountain Congressional Gold Medalist
Today’s episode features an inspiring student from Desert Mountain High School. Eric, a junior in the International Baccalaureate program, recently earned the Congressional Award Gold Medal, the highest honor Congress awards to civilian youth.
Through more than 425 hours of volunteer service, Eric has made a meaningful impact in his community. As the founder of Students for Shelter, he leads efforts to support individuals experiencing homelessness through donation drives, meal service, and connecting people with critical resources.
His leadership doesn’t stop there. From founding math clubs at Title I schools to mentoring international STEM scholars and developing tools for nonprofits, Eric is using his skills to create real change.
Today, we’re talking with Eric about what drives his passion for service, how he turned ideas into action, and what he’s learned along the way.
Who has been a guest on SUSD Spotlight
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Brittany Walker
Lea Mitchell
Arielle Schindler
Michelle Mitchell
John Andrews
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
58
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Contact SUSD Spotlight
Guest appearances
Books guests
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