Join us as we explore the world of Circle Public Schools, sharing inspiring stories, delving into the inner workings of our district, exploring innovative education, and celebrating the achievements of our students and educators.
Whether you're a student, parent, educator, or just passionate about education, TBird Talk is your go-to source for community conversations and behind-the-scenes insights. Get ready for a journey into the heart of Circle Public Schools, where excellence meets innovation. Welcome to TBird Talk!
In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter and Sara Potter are joined by Pre-K teacher Rebecca Fitch and Kindergarten teacher Devin Willhite to explore the transition to full-day Pre-K at Circle Public Schools. They discuss the reasons behind the shift, how expanded access supports more families, and the impact early learning has on Kindergarten readiness. The conversation highlights what families can expect from Pre-K and Kindergarten orientation, explains tuition and qualification for free programs, and offers simple ways parents can help their child feel confident starting school.
13 Jan 2026
Season 3, Episode 4: Check-In with Mr. Carroll & Nonresident Enrollment
In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter and Director of Community Relations and Development Sara Potter as they talk with Circle High School Principal Matt Carroll about nonresident enrollment. From application timelines to building connections, this episode highlights how Circle supports families and helps every student find their place to thrive.
17 Sept 2025
Season 3 Episode 3: Check-In with Mrs. Coons
In this episode of T-Bird Talk, Circle Oil Hill Elementary Principal Sarah Coons shares how Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) shape collaboration across the district. She explains what PLCs are, how they guide teacher teamwork, and how data from assessments drives instruction. The conversation highlights PLCs as a continuous cycle of improvement, the role of essential learnings, and the district’s focus on supporting teachers and students through shared goals and collaboration.
28 Aug 2025
Season 3, Episode 2: Catching Up with Mr. Lechien
This summer we spent some time catching up with Kansas Assistant Principal of the Year and incoming CMS principal, Mr. Lechien. Listen to get to know Mr. Lechien a little better and hear about his journey in education, his vision for Circle Middle School, and the goals he has for students and staff as they head into a new school year.
10 Jul 2025
Season 3 Episode 1: Settling In at Circle: Reflections on Year One
In this episode of TBird Talk, hear from teachers and our director of learning & intervention who just wrapped up their first year at Circle. They share what it was like to join the district, how they built connections with students and staff, and what they wish they’d known on day one. Their insights offer encouragement and practical tips for incoming new Circle teachers—whether you’re brand new to the profession or bringing experience from elsewhere.
14 Apr 2025
Season 2 Episode 4 - A Conversation with CHS Musicians
In this episode of Tbird Talk, Superintendent Don Potter sits down with Circle High School students Carly, Chandler, Nick, and Eriden to dive into the heart of the band and choir programs at CHS.
From funny freshman-year memories to powerful performances that bring the community together, these students share how music has shaped their high school experience—and why the programs feel more like family than extracurriculars.
Hear about upcoming events like the Night of Jazz (May 2, 6 PM—taco bar dinner and live music!) and the Fine Arts Variety Show (May 6), plus how the community can support an exciting upcoming choir trip to San Antonio.
6 Feb 2025
Season 2 Episode 3 - Inside Work-Based Learning: CHS Seniors Share Their Journey
In this episode, CHS seniors Parker Ebberts and Riley Bump join us to share their experiences in the Wesley Healthcare High School Observation Program, offered through CHS Work-Based Learning. They discuss the valuable insights they gained into the healthcare field and how the program helped shape their future career goals. The CHS Work-Based Learning program opens doors for students to explore real-world careers, gain hands-on experience, and build professional connections, preparing them for success beyond high school.
4 Dec 2024
Season 2 Episode 2 - Weather Cancellations, Making the Call
TBird Talk's Tom and Rachel discuss how they make the call on weather cancellations, sharing the behind-the-scenes process to keep students and staff safe.
9 Sept 2024
Season 2 Episode 1 - Welcome Back!
In our welcome back episode, Superintendent Don Potter and Director of Community Relations and Development, Sara Potter, welcome our Thunderbird community back to school! They highlight an exciting start to the year with initiatives such as Protect Young Eyes, the College and Career Ready Fair, the Dick Nibarger Circle Foundation Golf Tournament and emphasize the importance of regular school attendance.
Episode Resources:
Register to participate in the College & Career Ready Career Fair (https://app.pathwayos.com/form/external/179776881f39b60027d02c9b3f396ef165cb59ad92c50ec159)
Dick Nibarger Circle Foundation Golf Tournament Information (https://www.usd375.org/article/1743097)
Attendance Matters: Family Resources (https://www.usd375.org/page/attendance-matters)
29 May 2024
Episode 6 - Summer Meal Program with Michael Janzen & Margueriette Wright
Assistant Superintendent Michael Janzen and Director of Nutrition Services Margueriette Wright join us this week to give us all of the information on the Summer Meal Program! What's included in a multi-day meal pack, who can pick-up, why do we qualify for meals to-go, and more--you definitely won't want to miss this episode!
For more information & to sign up for summer meals visit Nutrition Services (https://www.usd375.org/page/nutrition-services).
10 Apr 2024
Episode 5 - What Pre-Kindergarten’s All About at Circle Public Schools with Guests Mrs. Lindsey and Mrs. Brundage
This week, Pre-Kindergarten teachers Mrs. Kimberley Lindsey and Mrs. Sonja Brundage join Mr. Potter to discuss the history of Circle Public School's pre-kindergarten program, its essential learning components, and the overall educational benefits for students enrolled in pre-k.
1 Mar 2024
Episode 4 - Girls State Wrestling Champion Lexi Wall & Coach Casey Gobel
Join us as we talk to Lexi and Coach Gobel about winning the first state wrestling championship for Circle High School and "The Program."
14 Feb 2024
Episode 3 - Navigating the Move to 7th-Grade with Guest 7th Grade Student Perry Haines
Tune in to our latest episode as we sit down with Perry Haines, a seventh-grade student at CMS, to delve into navigating the transition to middle school. Perry opens up about her experiences, sharing candid insights into friendships, academics, extracurricular activities, and everything in between. Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on the middle school journey.
30 Jan 2024
Episode 2 - "What is the Life Skills Survey?" with Guest CHS Counselor Kelly Ankrom
Join Superindent Don Potter and Director of Community Relations & Development Sara Potter for the second episode of TBird Talk. In this episode, we'll talk with Circle High School Counselor, Kelly Ankrom, about the Life Skills Survey--also known as Pamorama and SAEBRs.What is the Life Skills Survey and what is the information gathered used for? Listen now to find out!
For more information on the Life Skills Survey and view survey questions visit the Life Skills Learning (https://www.usd375.org/page/life-skills) page at usd375.org (http://usd375.org).
17 Jan 2024
Episode 1 - Establishing a Circle Rec Commission with Nick Engels
Join us, with Circle community member, Nick Engels to talk a little about the Circle Rec program and efforts to create a Circle Rec Commission.
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