This episode of ASD Shine Bright features a group of Romig Middle School 7th graders sharing their middle school experiences and what helps them succeed each day.

Hear directly from students as they talk about classes, friendships, activities, challenges, and the habits that help them stay motivated and successful both inside and outside the classroom.

This special joint episode brings together ASD Shine Bright and Tyson Elementary’s Raven’s Call Podcast Crew for a fun and insightful conversation with their 5th graders.

Hear directly from these student leaders as they share their lives in 5th grade, what it means to be a leader in their school, and some of their favorite things—from classes to hobbies and more.

In this episode of ASD Shine Bright, the East Story Squad catches up with Janice Strickland, who has spent over 50 years in education — including 36 years at East High School.

She talks about her passion for teaching, her love for French culture, and the joy she finds in helping students discover the best version of themselves for today and the years ahead.

As we celebrate Youth Art Month, this episode of ASD Shine Bright highlights the ASD Fine Arts Department and Service High School senior Nielie Bautista.

Nielie shares her passion for art and how creativity has shaped her journey as a student artist.

Hear from Nielie as she encourages others to embrace their creativity and reminds students that everyone has the ability to express themselves through art.

As we continue celebrating Black History Month, this episode of ASD Shine Bright highlights the ASD Fine Arts Department and Mi Casey, a Dimond High School senior and Silver Key award winner in Alaska for her outstanding art portfolio.

Mi’s work is currently featured at the Anchorage Museum as part of the 54th Annual ASD Youth Art Show collaboration and National Youth Art Month.

Hear from Mi as she shares her passion for art and how creativity inspires both her journey and others around her.

As we continue celebrating Black History Month, this episode of ASD Shine Bright features longtime educator and Wendler Middle School Principal Marcus Wilson.

Principal Wilson shares his educational journey and reflects on how the guidance of elders shaped his leadership and how he has used that wisdom to mentor students and staff to find success in ASD and beyond.

It’s a powerful conversation about legacy, leadership, and lifting others up.

In this episode of ASD Shine Bright, we talk with Service High senior Sophia Downie, Alaska Public Media journalist Annie Feidt, and ASD’s Shannon Donley about the impact of the ASD Gifted Mentorship Program.

Through her mentorship in public radio, Sophia gained real-world work experience—learning firsthand what it’s like to research, report, and tell meaningful stories alongside a professional journalist.

Her experience is a powerful example of how the Gifted Mentorship Program pairs motivated juniors and seniors with experts in fields they’re passionate about, turning advanced coursework into authentic, hands-on learning.

This program directly supports the School Board’s goal of College, Career, and Life Readiness by helping students build professional skills, explore career paths, and gain confidence in real workplace settings before graduation.

👉 Learn more about Sophia’s work and read one of her stories here: https://alaskapublic.org/news/education/2025-11-25/playing-it-forward-anchorage-musicians-gift-transforms-high-school-orchestra

We’re celebrating the 50th episode of ASD Shine Bright!

This week, we talk with Dimond High sophomores and Assistant Principal Tarna Armstrong about how the school is supporting its “phenomenal freshmen” through ASD’s College, Career & Life Readiness goals.

Hear how academy coaches, community partnerships, and specialized programs like Migrant Ed, Indigenous Ed, and ELL are helping students stay on track to graduate — boosting attendance, GPA, and engagement as they move into sophomore year.

Tune in for inspiring stories of growth, success, and students who truly shine!