Rooted & Rising: Stories From Across Our Schools
Campfire conversations celebrating the people, practices, and purpose that make our schools thrive.
Episodes
15 episodes
11 - Support During Interesting Times
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald is joined by Alissa Miller and Tanya Stewart to explore the vital work of student support in grades 5–8.The conversation focuses on how schools intentionally meet students ...
May President's Report
As the school year comes to a close, Andrew McDonald reflects on a year of growth, gratitude, and forward momentum across Billings Catholic Schools.In this episode, Andrew shares key updates from the President’s Report, including progres...
10 - Walk to Math
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Suzanne Vaira & Jessi Swain to explore the Walk to Math model and how it supports student growth through targeted, responsive instruction.The conversatio...
On the Spot
In this special bonus episode, Andrew McDonald joins Roy Brown on Billings Catholic Radio’s On the Spot podcast for a conversation about the vision behind Rooted & Rising and the role storytelling plays in the life of Cath...
09 - Looking Back & Moving On
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with a group of graduating seniors to reflect on their journey through Billings Catholic Schools as they prepare to take their next steps.The conversation looks b...
08 - Faith, Curiosity, and the Future of Science
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Mrs. Jenni Sogaard and her senior daughter for a conversation that bridges classroom innovation, student experience, and the future of learning.Jenni shares ...
07 - To Each According To Need
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald is joined by Sandi Derrig and Nicole Warn to share the story of the Student Support and Extension work taking shape across K-4.Together, they reflect on what it truly means...
06 - At the Front Door
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Angie Gonzales and Mallory Harris, two members of our front office team, to talk about something that shapes every school experience from the very first moment: wel...
April - President's Report
In this special solo episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald shares a comprehensive community update, offering insight into where Billings Catholic Schools are right now and how mission continues to guide the path forward.<...
05 - Called to Care
In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald is joined by Krista Cunningham and students Katie Kotecki and Olivia Guenthner to talk about HOSA - Future Health Professionals, and their recent competition experience.The...
We Start With An Idea
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 le...
Rising Readers
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 mat...
It's Like Wow!
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 acad...