Elmhurst D205 Podcast Network

We Are Dukes Ep 04: York Student Activities

In this episode of We Are Dukes, Dr. Jessica Hurt welcomes York High School’s Student Activities Coordinator, Matt Johnson, to discuss the power of extracurricular involvement. With more than 70 clubs and growing, York provides students with countless opportunities to explore their interests, connect with peers, and find belonging.
Matt shares his journey from math teacher to student activities leader, explains how new clubs are created, and reflects on the academic and social benefits of student involvement. The conversation offers insight for students and families looking to get connected and make the most of the York experience.

Hall Pass Ep 21: York Print Shop Joe Stolz

In this episode of Hall Pass, Dr. Campbell steps inside the York High School Print Shop with Mr. Stolz to explore how students learn graphic design, printing, and production through hands-on, real-world experiences. The conversation highlights the full course pathway, from introductory design classes to a capstone experience where students create materials used across the district’s schools.
Listeners will hear how this unique program builds technical skills, creativity, and professional habits while preparing students for careers in graphic design, printing, marketing, and beyond.

Hall Pass Ep 20: York Cross Country State Champion Karlin Janowski

In this episode of Hall Pass, Dr. Campbell joins York Girls Cross Country State Champion Karlin Janowski to relive the final moments of her state championship comeback. As they watch the race together, Karlin shares her mindset during the final stretch, the mental and physical push to the finish, and what it meant to secure the win.
She also reflects on her team’s third-place finish at state and the balance required to succeed as a student-athlete. An inspiring look at perseverance, teamwork, and finishing strong.

Hall Pass EP 19: Winter Preparations

On this episode of Hall Pass, Dr. Campbell chats with D205 Assistant Superintendent Joe Blomquist about how the district prepares for winter. They cover snow removal, ice treatment, early-morning custodial and maintenance work, coordination with transportation, and the First View app that helps families track buses. Learn how careful planning and teamwork keep students safe while school runs smoothly.

Hall Pass Ep 18: York Tennis State Champion CJ Coan

Hosted by Dr. Campbell, this episode of Hall Pass features CJ, York’s first-ever tennis state champion. CJ reflects on her three-hour championship match, her approach to staying focused under pressure, and what it feels like to make York history. She also shares her strategies for balancing schoolwork with athletics and how she hopes to inspire the next generation of Dukes.

We Are Dukes Ep 03: Rising Freshmen Academic Information Night

Hosted by Dr. Hurt, this episode of We Are Dukes highlights the key information shared during Rising Freshmen Academic Information Night — and includes insight from two current York students who describe what their transition to high school looked and felt like. Listeners will hear about academic pathways, recommended courses, elective options, and the supports available to help every new Duke start strong.

We Are Dukes Ep 02: York Student Services

In this episode of We Are Dukes, host Dr. Hurt sits down with Assistant Principal Mike Piechocinski and Division Chair for Student Services Mark Talbot to explore the supports available through York Student Services (YSS). From counseling and social work to the Freshman Orientation & Guidance (FOG) program, this episode highlights how York builds a strong foundation for student success.

Hall Pass Ep 17: Mary Beth Gley Middle School Science Teacher

In this episode of Hall Pass, Dr. Campbell visits Bryan Middle School to talk with Mary Beth Gley, science teacher and department lead, about how hands-on learning is bringing science to life for students.
Mrs. Gley shares how middle schoolers explore everything from the Earth, Moon, and Sun to thermal energy and ecosystems — all through real-world applications and storylines that connect directly to their everyday lives. From studying radiator heat in the school’s boiler room to dissecting squid, students are engaging deeply in scientific discovery and collaboration.

Hall Pass Ep 16: Elvira Martinez - Reading Specialist

In this episode of Hall Pass, Dr. Campbell visits Fisher Elementary to catch up with Reading Specialist Elvira Martinez and learn more about her work supporting young readers. Mrs. Martinez shares how she uses data, collaboration, and targeted interventions to help K–5 students grow in their reading skills.
She also reflects on the importance of setting high expectations, building relationships, and connecting lessons to students’ interests — including one powerful success story of a student who went from struggling to thriving.
🎧 Watch on YouTube or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or Podbean.

We Are Dukes Ep 01: Q&A With Dr. Hurt

In this Q&A episode of We Are Dukes, Principal Dr. Jessica Hurt shares how York supports students and families on their journey from middle school to high school. She discusses transition programs, academic and social supports, community traditions, and the “We Are Dukes” initiative that helps define York’s culture. Listeners will hear how York works to make a large school feel welcoming, supportive, and part of a shared journey of excellence.