The Raider Reach

Episode 11- Brittany Williams: Serving Up Success: A Conversation with Our Director of Child Nutrition

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Brittany Williams, Director of Child Nutrition, to hear about her incredible full-circle moment—landing her dream job where her passions for nutrition and education come together! She shares insights into the dedicated team behind LISD’s Child Nutrition Department, the exciting ways they support students and staff daily, and their commitment to using local food sources to keep everyone fueled for success. Plus, we celebrate their recent achievement of 100% health department ratings across all LISD kitchens!
This episode also features a special guest—8th grader Alyssa Flores, the first student to join the podcast! Alyssa gives us her take on what she loves most about school lunches

Episode 10- Katherine Waldrop: A Principal's Passion

"The Hotdog Lady: Katherine Waldrop’s Full-Circle Journey in Education"
In this heartwarming and entertaining episode, we sit down with Lumberton Intermediate’s beloved principal, Katherine Waldrop. She shares the story behind her famous attendance hotdog costume and how she became known as the “Hotdog Lady.” Waldrop also reflects on her full-circle journey—starting as a 5th-grade social studies teacher on this very campus nearly 30 years ago and now leading as its principal. Plus, she recounts some of the funniest moments from her career, including a runaway balloon in the cafeteria and a student who once brought a cat to school. You won’t want to miss this delightful conversation filled with laughter, memories, and a deep love for education!

Episode 9- Abby Zernial: From Student to Leader in Education, Impact, and School Finance"

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with Abby Zernial, Business Manager of Lumberton ISD. Abby shares her journey growing up in Lumberton, the teachers who shaped her path, and her passion for supporting students and educators every day. She also provides a clear and insightful breakdown of school finance, explaining its impact on education. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation! 

Episode 8- Elementary Counselors: Big Impact, Small Steps in Counseling Our Youngest Raiders

In this episode of Raider Reach, we sit down with our dedicated elementary school counselors to explore what makes their work so rewarding. They share insights into a typical day, from guiding young students through challenges to celebrating their successes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the joys of working with our youngest learners and the lasting impact of compassionate counseling.

Episode 7- LMS Counselors: Making Middle School Fun and Impactful

In this episode of Raider Reach, we dive into the world of middle school counseling with our LMS counselors! They’re sharing how they make counseling both fun and meaningful—think dance parties, random acts of kindness--  connecting with students and teachers. For parents, they’re offering expert advice on reinforcing healthy boundaries at home to help middle schoolers navigate friendships, emotions, and school life with confidence.

Episode 6- LHS Counselors: Guiding Graduates to Success

In this episode, the LHS Counselors share insights on preparing students for graduation and life beyond high school. The episode includes a funny graduation story and they dive into what they love most about working with high school students. The counselors also highlight the most rewarding part of their jobs—seeing former students return to share their career successes and inspire the next generation. Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt conversation!

Episode 5- Sharon Spears, Leading with Heart

In this special episode of Raider Reach, Lumberton ISD School Board President Sharon Spears shares her journey as a former educator, insights into the district’s history, and the learning experiences that shape her leadership. Her passion for student success and commitment to the community make this a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Episode 4: Amanda Jenkins- You've GOAT to Listen!

Lumberton Middle School principal Amanda Jenkins shares what she loves most about leading middle school students, balancing life as a mom to twin boys, and middle school fun. Bonus: a story about the goat in her office!

Episode 3: Travis Edgerton- Principal Perspectives

Join us for a fun and insightful chat with Travis Edgerton, the principal of Lumberton High School! In this episode, he shares what he loves most about leading at LHS, the quirky decision-making factor behind choosing his home, and his hilarious response to a student’s question about his fabulous scalp care. You won’t want to miss this entertaining and heartfelt conversation!

Episode 2- Dr. G

What do baseball, quad-lingual skills and unicorns have in common? Hear about the fascinating journey of our Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Igor Gusyakov.