Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Michael Smith, is joined by members of the West Aurora 129 community, including students, staff, parents, and other stakeholders, to discuss personal stories and issues relevant to our school district community.
Episode 57 - In the Classroom on 9/11 with Oswaldo De La Hoya, Courtney Harvey, and Teresa Waldinger
In Episode 57 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, by looking back at what that day was like inside SD129 schools. Joined by educators Teresa Waldinger and Courtney Harvey and former West Aurora student (and current SD129 educator) Oswaldo De La Hoya, Dr. Smith reflects on their experiences as teachers and a student as the events unfolded. They share vivid memories of the uncertainty of that day, the challenge of processing their own emotions while supporting students, and how the experience influenced them in the years that followed. Tune in for a unique and personal reflection on a defining moment in history through the eyes of those who experienced it inside West Aurora classrooms.
19 May 2026
Episode 56 - Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear
In Episode 56 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith welcomes Jewel Middle School special education teachers Mia Gianfrancesco and Heather Van Lear for a conversation about mentorship, relationships, and supporting students with diverse needs. Mia, a second-year teacher in a self-contained classroom, and Heather, a veteran educator and mentor teacher, reflect on the connection they’ve built through the district’s teacher induction program and how that support system helps new-to-SD129-educators grow with confidence. The episode also offers an inside look at the different roles special education teachers play in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Tune in for an encouraging conversation about collaboration, growth, and the relationships that help both students and teachers thrive in West Aurora School District 129.
17 Apr 2026
Episode 55 - Dexter McWilliams
In Episode 55 of the West Aurora 129 Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Michael Smith is joined by West Aurora High School senior and student board representative Dexter McWilliams for a student-centered conversation on the district’s “off and away” cell phone policy. Dexter shares his journey through SD129, highlighting the relationships, activities, and experiences that shaped his high school years, while offering an honest perspective on how the policy has impacted learning and classroom culture. The discussion explores both the challenges and unexpected benefits, including increased focus, stronger peer connections, and improved productivity. Tune in for a thoughtful look at this initiative through the lens of a student voice and what it means for the future of learning at West Aurora.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
90,951
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
Spotify
4.9 / 5
7 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 55 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
28
Social presence
94
YouTube
85
Engagement
77
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