Inside Hopkins
Welcome to Inside Hopkins, where we unravel the stories of innovation and education. Hosted by our superintendent, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed, our podcast offers an exclusive peek behind the scenes, featuring conversations with staff, students, experts, and partners, giving you an insider's view of the inner workings of a school district.Our audience is as diverse as our content – parents, students, district residents, alumni, staff, and even fellow education leaders from different districts. Join us on this journey as we push the boundaries of education and lead the way in innovation. Inside Hopkins is your passport to the future of education!
Stronger Together: The Impact of Hopkins Education Foundation
In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed shines a spotlight on the Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) and the powerful behind-the-scenes role it plays across the district.
For over 30 years, HEF has partnered with Hopkins schools and community members to fund programs and experiences that fall outside of the district’s general budget. Classroom grants, student support, community-building initiatives like #HopkinsStrong, and signature events like the Royal Bash are all ways the foundation works to ensure that students and educators have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Guests:
Emily Wallace-Jackson — Exec...
Happy Lunar New Year!
As the Lunar New Year approaches (it begins February 17 in 2026), the XinXing community comes together through traditions, performances, and shared celebrations that honor Chinese heritage. Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by teacher Qian Xu and students Addison Brenk and James Zocchi to reflect on how the Lunar New Year is celebrated across Hopkins schools and how immersion education shapes students as learners and global citizens.
Guests:
Qian Xu — World Language Teacher, Hopkins High School
Addison Brenk — Sophomore, Hopkins High School
James Zocchi — Sophomore, Hopkins High School
Resources:
Photos from the 20...
Taking Center Stage with Royal Productions
What does it take to build an award-winning theater program while creating a space where every student feels they belong? In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by members of the Royal Productions team to talk about what makes the program so special, how students develop as artists and as humans, and how the community can support upcoming performances.
Guests:
Farrah Buffington — Theatre Program Director
James Buffington — Assistant Director
Jessica Alciati — Senior, Hopkins High School
Resources:
Royal Productions at Hopkins High S...
Who Decides the Snow Day?
When snow, freezing temps, or even summer storms hit Minnesota, one question rises to the top for every family: Is school still on?In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and her guests walk us through what really happens during those late night and pre-dawn hours, how communication moves quickly once the call is made, and why the classic “snow day” looks different today.
Guests:Dr. Nik Lightfoot — Assistant Superintendent and Director of Human ResourcesJolene Goldade — Director of CommunicationsJohn Wetter — Director of Information Services and meteorologistResources:
More Info on Hopkins Inclement
Robotics
The Hopkins High School robotics team, The Technocrats, is fueled by far more than competition. It’s a safe place where students can be themselves and grow as engineers, strategists, communicators, and leaders. In this episode, the team shares what it takes to go from a challenge announcement to getting a working robot on the field, how new students find their place on the team, and why robotics is one of the most exciting ways our students prepare for a future in STEM and beyond.
Guests:
• Jason Herzog — Mentor and machine design engineer at Gen...
The Hopkins American Indian Education Program
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native peoples. In this episode of Inside Hopkins, Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed sits down with our American Indian Education Program leaders to learn how we support Native students in building cultural pride, identity, and belonging.
Together, they explore the history and purpose of the program, the importance of representation in schools, and the ways Hopkins partners with Native students, families, and tribal communities to help every learner thrive.
Guests:
Debb Andreen – American Indian Cultural Associate
Ka...
Cybersecurity in Our Schools
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, especially in our schools. In this episode, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools protects students, staff, and families in an era where technology touches every aspect of learning.
Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three members of the Hopkins technology and information services team who are leading the charge to keep our systems safe and resilient. Together, they discuss how the district responds to technology disruptions, what cybersecurity looks like in an E–12 setting, and how every staff member plays a role in protecting information and learning contin...
Blueprints for Belonging
What does a classroom designed for the future look and feel like? In this first episode of the school year, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools is transforming learning spaces to support safety, inclusivity, and engagement for every student.
Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three district leaders at the forefront of reimagining what modern learning looks and feels like. Together, they discuss how space influences learning outcomes, what makes a school feel safe and welcoming, and why thoughtful design can improve focus, collaboration, and belonging.
Guests:Dr. Ann Ertl – Director of Innovative De...
Senior Spotlight: Isaac Winkler
As we celebrate the Class of 2025, we’re excited to share the story of Isaac Winkler. Isaac was captain of the lacrosse team and a dedicated member of the hockey team. Beyond sports, he’s made history as the youngest delegate in the entire country to attend the Democratic National Convention.
Isaac will be attending the University of Wisconsin–Madison next year, where he plans to pursue his future goals in politics.
Please join us in congratulating Isaac on his impressive achievements in Hopkins Public Schools and wishing him the very best as he begins on this ne...
Senior Spotlight: Mia Osman
As we wrap up this season of Inside Hopkins, we’re celebrating the Class of 2025. In this episode, we’re shining the spotlight on one senior’s story. Mia Osman is a student board representative, part of the Muslim Student Association, Somali Student Association, and National Honors Society. She also co-founded two new groups at Hopkins High School: Immigrating to Success and Youth in Government.
Mia will be attending the University of Minnesota next year with the aim to major in political science on a pre-law track and minor in history. She has a clear vision of becoming a civi...
Every Student has a Talent
What happens when a school district stops asking “Who is gifted?” and starts asking “How can we nurture the gifts in every child?” In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we explore how Hopkins Public Schools is transforming teaching and learning through its innovative, research-driven Schoolwide Talent Development model.
Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by Dr. Leanne Kampfe, Jillian Myers, and Kathleen Roller. All three guests are dedicated educators who are leading this work across the district. Together, they unpack the shift from traditional, exclusive gifted programs to a personalized, affirming approach that nurtures exceptional abilities in every scholar...
From Hopkins to Havana
In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we journey over 1,800 miles to the heart of Cuba. This spring, students from the Hopkins High School band, choir, and orchestra experienced a once-in-a-lifetime immersive experience designed to promote global citizenship through the universal language of music. Superintendent Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and our guests reflect on what it meant to travel abroad, how Cuban culture shaped their perspectives, and the role of music in building connections and serving as a universal language.
You’ll hear how this trip reinforced core values we champion in Hopkins: empathy, confidence, and being well-traveled and globally-minded. A...
Transition Plus
What does a pathway to adulthood look like for young adults with disabilities? In this episode, we talk about Transition Plus—a collaborative program between Hopkins Public Schools and St. Louis Park Public Schools designed to prepare young adults with disabilities for life beyond high school. More than just academics, Transition Plus focuses on real-life readiness. It equips students with the skills they need for employment, independent living, community participation, and postsecondary planning.
Together, Superintendent Dr. Rhoda Mhirirpiri-Reed and our guests discuss a typical day in the program, the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into adulthood, and the po...
Outdoor Adventures Await
In this episode, host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and our two guests explore the impact of nature in education. With Minnesota’s students spending more time on screens and less time outdoors, our conversation gets into why outdoor experiences aren’t just refreshing—they’re essential for student health, well-being, and academic success—especially when students engage in activities like the school’s renowned ropes course.
Whether you’re an educator, parent, or just want to hear tips on how to get your family outside, this episode offers a fresh perspective on learning and living beyond the screen.
Guests...
The Black Student Alliance
What happens when students take the lead in shaping their school community? In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the Black Student Alliance (BSA) at Hopkins High School—a student-led organization dedicated to empowering Black students, fostering connection, and driving meaningful change. Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed sits down with BSA leaders to discuss the power of affinity spaces, the joy of Black culture, and the importance of advocacy in education.
From organizing the Royally Speaking Black History Month celebration to engaging in important conversations about equity and inclusion, BSA members are making their voices heard—on campus and...
Assume Nothing, Design Everything
What if the most important skill we can teach students isn’t what to think, but how to think? In this episode, we explore the dynamic world of the International Baccalaureate (IB) design cycle — a hands-on, inquiry-driven approach that challenges students to think critically, solve real-world problems, and unleash their creativity.
Through stages of inquiry, ideation, creation, and evaluation, IB design empowers students to take ownership of their learning, connect classroom concepts to real-life applications, and develop future-ready skills. Whether it's building prototypes, brainstorming solutions, or refining ideas through feedback, this episode highlights how design thinking transforms traditional lear...
It's Not Magic: True Inclusion is Hard Work & Heart Work
Inside Hopkins is back! In the first episode of 2025, we take a deep dive into the heart of the COMPASS program, a district-wide initiative based at Glen Lake Elementary that serves students with disabilities and complex medical needs. Host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed is joined by three incredible guests to explore the power of inclusion, compassion, and the importance of building meaningful friendships among all students.
Compass students are a "kind of big deal"—not just because they helped spark fundraising for a $1 million inclusive playground, but because they embody the true spirit of inclusion. They teach their general ed...
The Power of Projects
Project Based Learning (PBL) is learning that you can’t google to get the answers. And its presence in Hopkins classrooms creates powerful learning experiences. From ensuring academic rigor to helping students develop confidence, empathy, and critical thinking, this episode highlights how PBL empowers students to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Listen in as our PBL experts share their classroom expertise and insights, and even sing a little Rick Astley. Â
Guest Bios:Â
Ryin Carreras – Meadowbrook first-grade teacher Ben Dickens – Hopkins VirtualEDU educator Mary Kornmann – Instructional coach at MeadowbrookÂ
Resources:
PBL Works
Pro...
There Are Two New Mascots in Town, and You’re Going to Hear Them Roar
Why are most mascots male-presenting? That’s a question that Principal Jim Hebeisen and Hopkins Transition Plus graduate and designer Mia Carter explored and eventually led to the creation of two new mascots, one male-presenting and one female-presenting. Hopkins might now be one of the only districts in the nation to have both a male- and female-presenting mascot. In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we tell the story of these beautiful lions and how they are connected to Hopkins’ commitment to inclusivity and Vision 2031. Funded by a $10,000 Hopkins Education Foundation grant and thoughtfully crafted, Carter shares the inspiration, symbolism, and care...
Unplugged: The Connection Between Phones and Teen Mental Health
In this episode, Dr. M-R dives into the important topic of mental health among middle and high school students. Anchored around the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, the conversation features insights from two Hopkins High School students and three educators, exploring the complex relationship young people have with their phones—a key way they connect socially. Could this shift in behavior be fueling a mental health epidemic? Or maybe it’s more nuanced. We hear directly from our high schoolers on a potential cell phone ban in secondary schools and discuss how such policies might impact student mental heal...
Challenge Accepted: Why All Students Should Take an AP Class
What does it take to thrive in college-level coursework while still in high school? In Episode Three of Inside Hopkins, we explore the world of Advanced Placement (AP) courses at Hopkins High School, where nearly half of Hopkins High School students are stepping up to this challenge. Hear from high school staff and scholars as they share their experiences with AP classes, discuss what sets the Hopkins program apart, and offer advice on how all students can take advantage of these opportunities.
Guests:
Crystal Ballard - Hopkins High School Principal
John Sammler - AP...
The Power of Yes!
Have you ever asked for something big—really big? $1 million big? What if the people you asked dared to say yes, even if they were not sure it was possible? And what if it happened? That’s the power of yes, and that’s what we will be talking about in Episode Two of "Inside Hopkins."
Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed highlights an extraordinary student-led initiative from Glen Lake Elementary that started with a simple idea and a jar of change. The students aimed to build an accessible playground to ensure kids of all abilities could play together. With the suppor...
Dr. M-R’s Youngest Bosses
Hopkins Schools was one of the first districts to have student board reps on its school board—and it’s a tradition we continue today. The Hopkins School Board includes three (soon to be four) Hopkins High School students and one VirtualEDU student.
Our guests—Mia Osman, Praise Akinyele, and Manuel Wahyu—are all returning school board reps. They talk about what it is like to be part of the governing board, the biggest issues facing young people today, and how they feel about a potential cell phone policy at the high school.
Guests:
Pra...
The Class of 2024
They started their high school experience in the pandemic and are entering a world that is rapidly changing and sometimes feels more polarized than ever. What does the Class of 2024 think of their high school experience and what the future might hold for them? We sat down with three seniors who talk about everything from globalization, phone addiction, social media’s impact on relationships, and even their favorite sandwich. They have a lot to say! They’re articulate, well-rounded, intelligent, and kind. Class of 2024, the world is yours and we were lucky to have known you! Congratulations!
Gues...
Preview: Celebrating Hopkins Graduates
Get ready for our upcoming episode airing on June 6! In this special Graduation Day episode, our host Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Redd will talk to graduating seniors about their Hopkins journeys, favorite memories, and future plans. Don't miss out on this special episode celebrating the milestone of high school graduation and the exciting paths that lie ahead!
Resources:
HHS Graduation Day Information
Thank you, Chef!
What’s for lunch? It’s a common question, but the answer really matters. And in Hopkins, what is for lunch (and breakfast) is delicious. All of our kitchens produce meals from scratch, partner with local farms for fresh ingredients, and cook meals that incorporate diverse culinary traditions. In this episode we talk about the impact of universal free meals and explain why it’s still important to fill out meal benefits applications every year.Â
Guests:
Andrea Schaak, Assistant Director of Nutrition
Sarah Wohlforth, Cook Supervisor
Brenda Nichols, CashierÂ
Resources:
...
I Love You More Than Pickles
In this episode of Inside Hopkins, we are sitting among greatness. Out of 159 candidates from across Minnesota, these four remarkable educators advanced to the semifinals for the 2024 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. And just before this episode was recorded, we learned that two of our guests made it to the finalist stage. In this conversation we explore our guests' unique “why” for choosing to teach, the importance of relationships, the challenges and joys of the classroom, and why our students love our teachers more than pickles! The Minnesota Teacher of the Year will be named on May 5 at a reco...
There Are No Weeds in This Garden
You are bigger than your biggest mistake. How does it make you feel to hear that? It might give you the feeling that you can start over or try again. It might cause you to reflect or feel relieved. Restorative practices in our schools help our students understand each other and where they are coming from. While restorative practices can be used as a strategy for conflict resolution, they’re also used for community building and developing trust. Our guests explain why restorative practices are important and result in more learning happening in the classroom. We also explore how restorative pr...
Not Your Pandemic Online Learning School
VirtualEDU is the only online school in the state of Minnesota to offer both fully online and blended (in-person + virtual) pathways. School leaders at VirtualEDU have turned the concept of online learning on its head by creating virtual learning environments that are supportive, community-based, and culturally affirming. Our guests, who all taught in in-person environments prior to joining VirtualEDU, talk about how this type of learning environment is changing their beliefs about what is important and why they believe virtual learning is here to stay.
Guests:
Dr. Tiffany Nielsen-Winkelman, Learning Design Futurist and Assistant Director...
The Quiet Powerhouse You’ve Never Heard Of
The Hopkins Public Schools Legislative Action Coalition (known as LAC) is a grassroots advocacy group of parents, community members, school board members, and high school students. But it’s also more than that. Within the group is a legacy that includes and involves many of the legislators who are currently in office today. The Hopkins LAC is the birthplace and powerhouse for Minnesota legislators and a model for other districts. In this episode, our guests talk about the work they do behind-the-scenes to ensure that legislators understand the education priorities of Hopkins Schools and other districts in Minnesota and what bi...
A Robot Wrote this Episode
Okay. That’s not true. But a robot could have. That’s what we are talking about in this episode – the evolution of AI technology and the growing need for expertise in computer science and coding. These skills will be in high demand in the job market and are changing quickly. According to our guests, AI advancements like ChatGPT are the biggest technological shift that adults will see in their lifetime and may even be the biggest technological shift our students will see in their lifetime. What is AI’s place in education, and how can we help our students use the...
Watch Me Grow!
In Hopkins, we call ourselves an E-12+ system because we know and believe that early childhood learning is an essential component of the school experience. In this discussion, we explore why those early years are so crucial for child development. According to our guests, it is in early childhood and through preschool programs that students develop a love of learning and begin to develop skills like curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Early childhood provides community and connection to our families. In Hopkins, preschool programs are offered in all of our in-person elementary schools, creating a sense of belonging for little...
You ARE a Math Person
There is no such thing as a “math brain.” And yet, it’s common for people to say, “I am not a math person.” According to our guests, you ARE a math person. Everyone is. In this episode, we explore people’s unique relationship with math and offer strategies for addressing math phobia. Math is more than simply ticking the boxes and moving on. Hopkins educators integrate creativity and conceptual learning into math, encouraging scholars to embrace mistakes and acknowledge the multiple perspectives within a math context. Our guests delve into the tangible benefits and potential drawbacks of accelerating math education, s...
The Gifts of Biliteracy
Hopkins has two language immersion programs - Spanish Immersion and Chinese Immersion. At Eisenhower Elementary, these two pathways operate alongside an English pathway with a robust International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) framework connecting concepts and curriculum. Hopkins’ immersion programs follow a 90/10 model, meaning 90 percent of the content is Spanish or Chinese with English being introduced, or reinforced as biliteracy comes naturally to many students, in third-grade.
In this episode, we explore how learning a second language builds critical thinking and cultural competency in young children, the learning transference that occurs when you learn multiple languages, and th...
TEASER: Language Immersion in Hopkins
This teaser provides a sneak peek into our upcoming podcast episode focusing on our Chinese and Spanish language immersion programs within Hopkins Public Schools. As the holiday season unfolds, we're taking a brief pause to recharge our podcasting spirits. Join us back on January 11 as we venture into the captivating world of language immersion education.
Resources:
Learn More About Our Chinese and Spanish Immersion Programs
A Look Inside the Launch of Our Certified Nursing Assistant Program
In our last episode of 2023, we explore the development of our Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Hopkins High School. The program will be offered in January in a state-of-the-art lab at the high school designed to simulate a hospital setting. The program not only offers real-world experience in the medical field, it also offers scholars CNA certification - a value of around $1,500. Scholars who enroll in this class will spend time in this simulated clinical setting and an actual clinical setting, offering them critical thinking skills, deep perspective, and empathy. Thank you to the Hopkins Education Foundation for helping...
Exploring Outdoor Immersion at Gatewood Elementary
In this episode, we dive into the immersive outdoor education program at Gatewood Elementary. Discover how this innovative curriculum not only connects children with the environment, but also enhances academic skills, fosters teamwork, and ignites a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Guests:
Dr. George Nolan, principal, Gatewood Elementary
Ellen Dischinger, Kindergarten teacher, Gatewood Elementary
LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Our Schools
In this episode of Inside Hopkins, join our host, Superintendent Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed, in a thoughtful conversation with Laura Jensen, the dedicated LGBTQ+ Community Liaison for our school district. Diving into the heart of inclusivity and diversity, this episode sheds light on the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community within Hopkins Public Schools.
Guest: Laura Jensen
Reading Teacher, North Middle School
Gender & Sexuality Alliance Advisor
Hopkins Schools LGBTQ+ Community Liaison
The Science of Reading
In this episode, we take you on a fascinating journey through the Science of Reading and the transformative impact of LETRS training at Hopkins Public Schools. Join us as we speak with Hopkins experts and educators who are contributing to a brighter future for scholars through the power of effective literacy instruction.
Guests: Anne Baird, Elementary Instructional Coach, Tanglen Elementary
Lori O’Neil, 2nd Grade Teacher, Tanglen Elementary
Nakiya and Raven, Students, Tanglen Elementary
Resources:
Watch - The Science of Reading at Hopkins
Designing Schools for the Future
Many schools across the nation were built in the industrial age to prepare students for factory work. We know this is an outdated model, and redesigning schools is a complex task. What should schools of the future physically look like, and what are the steps we can take to get there? In this episode, we dive into the future of education by exploring the present state of our schools and the adjustments we could make to promote a more modern style of education. We also discuss a visionary collaboration between Fielding International, an award-winning international educational design firm, and Hopkins...
