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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Shane Fairbanks to explore how history comes alive when students are invited to experience it, not just read about it.

Through hands‑on projects, immersive lessons, and creative approaches, Shane shares how experiential learning helps students build curiosity, deepen understanding, and make meaningful connections to the past. The conversation highlights how engaging instruction fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and a genuine love of learning.

Together, they reflect on why hands‑on learning matters in a Catholic school setting where students are encouraged to see themselves as part of a larger story shaped by faith, culture, and human experience.

It’s a joyful reminder that when learning is interactive and purposeful, it becomes more than content, it becomes formation.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Lacey Weidman & Geoff Melder to explore one foundational truth: literacy touches everything.

The conversation looks at why strong literacy instruction matters far beyond language arts, shaping students’ confidence, critical thinking, and ability to engage meaningfully across all subjects. Geoff and Lacey share how intentional literacy practices help meet students where they are, support diverse learning needs, and build a shared foundation for success across grade levels.

Together, they reflect on how literacy helps students not only read and write well, but also understand, express, and grow into who they are becoming.

This episode offers a thoughtful look at the power of literacy when it is treated not as a single program, but as a shared commitment across a school system.

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What truly sets Catholic education apart?

In the first episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Krista Wahl and Sean Kahn to explore the heart of Catholic schools—why families choose them, how faith and academics work hand in hand, and what it means to form students for life, not just achievement.

This conversation reflects on mission, culture, calling, and why the work of Catholic education feels deeply personal to those who serve in it every day.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Branden Martinez, teacher extraordinaire and director of the BCCHS drama program, following the school’s production of Fiddler on the Roof.

Together, they reflect on the collaboration it take to put on a show of that caliber to the moments of growth that happen both on and off the stage. Branden shares how theater creates space for students to build confidence, discipline, and empathy, while also discovering their voices and their gifts.

The conversation explores why the arts matter in a Catholic school setting, how storytelling helps students wrestle with big themes like tradition, community, and identity, and why experiences like Fiddler on the Roof leave a lasting impact long after the final curtain call.

It’s a joyful, behind‑the‑scenes look at creativity, teamwork, and formation—proof that sometimes the most meaningful learning happens under the stage lights.

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Rooted & Rising is a short, story‑driven podcast celebrating the people, practices, and moments that shape our Catholic school system. Each episode highlights everyday stories from classrooms, campuses, and communities: rooted in faith, formed by family spirit, and rising toward academic excellence.

In this trailer, host Andrew McDonald shares the heart behind the podcast and what listeners can expect each week. Episodes are designed to be thoughtful, accessible, and meaningful, inviting parents, educators, students, and friends of our schools to pause, reflect, and notice the good work happening all around us.