In this episode of Education Matters, we visit Palmer High School to explore their long-standing International Baccalaureate (IB) program — one of the most rigorous and rewarding paths a student can take.

Host John Notes sits down with IB Coordinator McKenzie Moore and students Oscar and Teagan, who share what it’s like to take six or seven IB classes, balance academics with sports, and create meaningful community impact through their CAS Project — including their “Trick or Trot” fun run fundraiser for early childhood education. 🏃‍♀️🍬

Hear how these students are preparing not just for college, but for life — building confidence, creativity, and global awareness along the way.

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

🎬✨ In this episode of Education Matters, we sit down with students Liam and Kaya, along with teacher Rhett Buchanan from Teeland Middle School, to talk about their incredible Media Skills class. From producing weekly newscasts to creating a full music video called Let It Flow—these students are learning real-world storytelling, editing, and collaboration skills that will last a lifetime.

Catch their inspiring story and see how Teeland students are raising the bar for creativity and excellence!

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

New episode: students share first-hand stories from the Palmer–Saroma exchange—how they were selected, standout cultural moments (from spotless streets to less phone time), and how the trip grew their confidence and independence. They even share advice for peers thinking about applying next year.

If you enjoy the show, follow and leave a quick rating to help others find Education Matters.

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

In this joyful and heartwarming episode of Education Matters, host John Notestine sits down with a group of enthusiastic students from Big Lake Elementary School as they prepare to perform for the MSBSD School Board. From favorite teachers and math lessons to choir practice and musical games, these students share what makes their school such a special place to learn and grow.

🎶 Highlight Alert: Don’t miss the impromptu performance at the end—Big Lake’s student choir brings the energy with a surprise live rendition of a pop favorite!

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Students reflect on their favorite parts of school
• Insight into what they’re learning (comparing fractions, dividing decimals & patience!)
• Behind-the-scenes fun from choir rehearsals
• A musical game that doubles as vocal training
• An unexpected live performance full of Big Lake pride

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of student voice, this episode will leave you smiling.

👉 Subscribe and follow for more student-led stories from across the Mat-Su Borough School District.

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

On this episode of Education Matters, we’re diving into the incredible world of SkillsUSA with a group of talented students from Colony High School! 🏅🔧✨

These students are sharpening their skills in welding, technical drafting, public speaking, and more—all while preparing for intense competitions that could shape their futures. Hear how SkillsUSA is helping them build real-world expertise, gain confidence, and develop the professional skills needed for life beyond high school.

From welding sculptures to nailing math competitions, their stories of hard work and perseverance will inspire you! Tune in now and discover why SkillsUSA is a game-changer for career and technical education.

Listen in as they discuss:

• ✅ The hands-on projects they’re tackling
• ✅ How SkillsUSA is preparing them for the workforce
• ✅ The valuable life skills they’ve gained—beyond just their trade
• ✅ Their best competition stories and what’s next for them

💡 Inspired by this episode? If you know a student who could benefit from SkillsUSA, share this episode with them!

📢 Join the conversation! Comment below and tell us: What’s the most valuable skill you’ve learned in school or your career?

⭐️ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—it helps more people discover the great things happening in our schools!

If you’re a student, parent, or educator interested in career and technical education, this episode is a must-listen!

🔗 Learn more about SkillsUSA: https://www.skillsusa.org/

🔗 Mat-Su Borough School District: https://matsuk12.us

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

In this episode of Education Matters, we explore how Career & Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are preparing students for success beyond high school. Host John Nelson sits down with student leaders from Educators Rising and Business Professionals of America (BPA) to discuss the skills they’re gaining, the competitions they’re tackling, and the impact of these programs on their futures.

Want to know how these programs are shaping the next generation of educators and business leaders? Tune in now!

#EducationMatters #CTSO #BPA #EducatorsRising #FutureLeaders #CareerReady

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

In this episode of Education Matters, we dive into the magic of Hadestown, the latest production by Colony High School’s drama department. Host John Notestine sits down with cast members Finn Gagnon (Orpheus), Hazel Price (Eurydice), and Haley Willis (Persephone) to discuss the show’s unique blend of Greek mythology and New Orleans jazz and what it takes to put on a large production.

Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at a must-see performance! Get your tickets before they sell out! 🎶🎭

#Hadestown #EducationMatters #MatSuSchools #ColonyHighDrama #TheaterLife #BehindTheScenes

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us

John Notestine interviews students from the Mat-Su Middle College School and ANSEP, the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program. Both programs offer students dual credit for high school and college. In this episode, students talk about their experience and offer insight to prospective students on what to expect in these rigorous programs.

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🎙️ Education Matters is the official podcast of the Mat-Su Borough School District, highlighting students, teachers, and the innovative programs that make our schools great.

📲 Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/akmatsuk12

📩 Got a story to share? Contact us at pio@matsuk12.us