What if your school had its own podcast? Animas High shows how.
Animas High School (AHS) recently launched a seven-episode podcast that asks a bold question: What must education do to prepare students not just for tests, but for meaningful, impactful, and fulfilling lives? Hosted by Michael Rendon, Fort Lewis College Assistant Professor of Sociology and Political Science, and co-host Greg Phillips, AHS Board Treasurer, the series brings together educators, mental health experts, community leaders, and students to explore real solutions to today’s educational challenges. It also makes them unique.
One of several local high school options in the mountain town of Durango, Animas High “thought the podcast would be an effective way to communicate to parents and students what makes us so unique,” explained Greg Phillips, AHS Board Treasurer.
With demographic data indicating that parents of school-aged children are frequent podcast listeners, the medium was a natural choice.
Libby Cowles, Dean of Enrollment and Community Outreach at the established charter, says they see themselves as “thought leaders” in the ever-evolving field of education. As such, she explains, facilitating collaborative conversations in the community is important. The podcast also serves as a reminder to parents and students to consider Animas when deciding which high school to attend.
Built to Inspire
Each episode tackles a specific topic, featuring local educators, mental health experts, and community leaders alongside the voices of recent graduates, current college students, and young professionals. “Their voices are super inspiring and hopeful,” Greg said. “If you’re listening closely, you can hear how their educational journeys have shaped their visions for the future.”
Producing the podcast proved faster than expected. “I think our biggest surprise was how quickly the whole effort came together. From conceptualizing the topics and recruiting our guests, to recording and editing the final episodes — we completed all seven episodes in six weeks,” says Greg.
And the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We have received incredible feedback on the quality of the production, the depth of the conversations, and the thoughtfulness of our guests," says Greg. “Our teachers, in particular, have been proud of how the podcast reflects on our school.”
While there are no immediate plans for additional episodes, Greg envisions the podcast evolving as a student-led initiative in the future. “There’s always the possibility that our students may choose to build upon Beyond the Bell and grow the podcast as a student-led project. We certainly hope so! It was a rewarding learning experience for us to produce it—and one worth listening to!”
Beyond the Bell demonstrates that schools can extend their impact beyond the classroom while serving as a model for others who want to share their vision and engage their communities. Real conversations, real solutions, real impact. Listen and explore now.
