Experience

Experiential learning represents a paradigm shift in education, emphasizing hands-on, immersive experiences that extend beyond the confines of traditional classroom settings. By stepping outside the classroom, students engage with real-world challenges, environments, and scenarios, facilitating deeper understanding and application of knowledge.

EXTEND

Extending learning experiences outside traditional classroom settings involves leveraging diverse environments, such as museums, nature reserves, or community centers, to enrich students' educational journeys. These experiences foster curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills by connecting classroom learning to the wider world.

EXPLORE

Exploring various pathways for learning recognizes that every student has unique interests, strengths, and learning styles. By offering diverse learning pathways, such as vocational programs, arts education, or STEM initiatives, educators empower students to pursue their passions and develop essential skills for future success.

IMPLEMENT

Implementing project-based learning methods immerses students in authentic, inquiry-driven projects that culminate in tangible outcomes. By tackling real-world problems and challenges, students develop essential competencies, such as collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, while deepening their understanding of academic content.

Partnership

Establishing meaningful community partnerships connects schools with local organizations, businesses, and institutions to enrich learning opportunities and address community needs. By collaborating with external stakeholders, schools can provide students with authentic learning experiences and foster civic engagement and social responsibility.

ReTHINK

Rethinking grading systems and credit allocation involve moving away from traditional letter grades toward more holistic and personalized assessment approaches. Introducing mastery transcripts, for example, focuses on students' demonstrated proficiency in specific skills and competencies rather than simply accumulating course credits.

MASTERY

Adopting competency-based education models emphasizes mastery of essential knowledge and skills, allowing students to progress at their own pace. By focusing on mastery rather than seat time, competency-based education promotes personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs.

InTEgrate

Integrating work-based learning opportunities connects classroom learning with real-world experiences, providing students with valuable insights into potential career pathways and fostering essential employability skills. By engaging in internships, and apprenticeships, students gain practical experience and build professional networks while applying classroom learning in authentic contexts.

What to Expect:

ENGAGE independently in breakout sessions offering participants the opportunity to dive deep into specific topics or activities tailored to their interests or needs. These sessions often encourage active participation, fostering meaningful interactions and discussions among attendees.

EXPERIENCE innovative Makerspaces, such as the RV Mobile setup, within K-12 districts, open doors to hands-on learning experiences that promote creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. These spaces are designed to inspire students to tinker, experiment, and invent, nurturing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship from an early age.

ATTEND panel discussions to provide a unique platform for gaining insights from students themselves, offering firsthand perspectives on various topics, challenges, and successes within education. These discussions can shed light on student experiences, aspirations, and suggestions for improvement, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy among educators and stakeholders.

Our PresentErs

Dr. Candy Van Buskirk brings over 25 years of educational expertise to the stage as the keynote speaker. As Assistant Superintendent at Career Academy Network of Public Schools, she champions innovative and experiential learning for all students, advocating for equitable education at every level. With a passion for breaking down classroom walls, Candy spearheads transformative initiatives, such as developing a teacher pipeline with college credit courses for non-licensed staff and starting an adult literacy program at a local apartment complex. Her pivotal role in the partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of St. Joseph County underscores her commitment to community collaboration. Her dedication to providing engaging learning experiences is evident in her latest work, "Learn Outside: Rising Together to Disrupt the Status Quo in Education." Join Candy as she shares her insights and vision for the future of education.

Jeremy Lugbill

Our PresentErs

Jeremy Lugbill serves as Superintendent at Career Academy Network of Public Schools. The 5 schools within the network provide tuition-free, project-based STEM education, with a strong emphasis on college and career readiness. “A” rated schools and a 96% graduation rate in 2023 have created high demand for the network. Enrollment has increased 22% over the last six years.

Jeremy is a fierce advocate for creating relevant learning opportunities for all students. Alongside officials from Indiana Department of Education, a team of innovative superintendents throughout the state are redesigning the high school experience. These changes to the diploma will lay the groundwork for students to build durable skills, earn credentials of value, and prepare for the world of work.

Our PresentErs

Mr. Garstka is in his 9th year at Career Academy High School. He started at Career Academy as a dual-credit Math teacher in July 2015. Mr. Garstka is currently the Career Academy High School principal. He serves on numerous committees and is dedicated to the growth and success of career pathways for all students. His principal's office has an open-door philosophy for collaboration and teamwork to build support and community. Mr. Garstka loves the students (both past and present), staff, and families of CASB and enjoys interacting with everyone at sporting events, school events, and other activities.

Zach Gillis

Our PresentErs

After graduating from Bethel University (IN), formerly Bethel College, Zachary Gillis served in Bethel's Offices of Student Life and Diversity & Inclusion while earning his Master of Arts in Intercultural Leadership from Goshen College. Zach has also been a guest lecturer in various subjects at the collegiate level and facilitated workshops with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition to being the Dean of Students at the Portage School of Leaders, Zach serves on the pastoral staff at South Bend City Church and he views it as a great privilege to be able to be engaged in the South Bend community in these ways.

Roxanne Bryant

Our PresentErs

Roxanne Cardenas Bryant is an educator, author, advocate and entrepreneur. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, GA, and Northern Seminary in Lombard, IL, Roxanne she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History Education, a Master of Divinity and went on to pursue doctoral studies.

With an educational career spanning just shy of three decades, Bryant has served as a classroom teacher, Dean of Students, and school administrator in Wisconsin and Indiana. As an adjunct for Judson University in Elgin, IL for over ten years, Roxanne taught courses in Human Resources, Cultural Diversity, Education and Human Services.

Roxanne has received numerous commendations and awards such as inclusion in the ninth through twelfth editions of "Who's Who Among America's Teachers", recognition as a “Community Jewel” by the Milwaukee Community Journal, and by the United States Postal Service as a "Woman Putting Her Stamp on Metro Milwaukee.”

The author of four books, the last of which made its way to the top 100 on Amazon in its category; Bryant looks forward to the release of two more books in the fall of 2024. In her leisure time she enjoys spending time cooking with her husband, Harry who is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School.

Brie Childs

Our PresentErs

Mrs. Childs has over 20 years of experience in education. She received her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University. During her time teaching, she earned her graduate degree from Indiana University-South Bend, along with her Educational Leadership Certification.

Mrs. Childs served as a middle school teacher for the majority of her teaching career. She was named 2011 Teacher of the Year for South Bend Community School Corporation and was a Top Ten Finalist for the State of Indiana Teacher of the Year Award.

Mrs. Childs and her spouse have two dogs, four cats, and a snake. They love spending time with family, having fun with their five nephews and two nieces. Mrs. Childs loves playing pickleball, golf, and enjoys many outdoor activities.

Dr. Andrew Hoyt

Our PresentErs

Dr. Hoyt is a longtime South Bend resident and a school leader, teacher, and scholar. He is deeply invested in our city and committed to making transformational educational experiences available for all students.

As the founding Head at The Portage School of Leaders, Dr. Hoyt is eager to partner with students and teachers to create a relationship-rich learning environment that fosters mastery, agency, and creativity.

Dr. Hoyt attended public high school in Iowa and earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees from the University of Notre Dame. He began his educational career in Texas, helping to open the doors as a founding faculty member of Cristo Rey Jesuit College Preparatory School in Houston. Most recently, Dr. Hoyt led La Lumiere School, where he previously served as Assistant Head of School, Academic Dean, Director of Teaching and Learning, and as an English, ethics, and math teacher. He lives just a short walk from The Portage School of Leaders, with his wife, Bridget, and their two sons, Colm and Eoin.

Sara Timm

Our PresentErs

Sara Timm is the Director of Special Education at Career Academy Network of Public Schools supporting a diverse population of learners. She has been working in the field of education for 13 years and has experience as a special education teacher, MTSS Coordinator, and lecturer in the School of Education at IU South Bend in addition to her leadership work as a Director. Sara has been an active member of ICASE first participating on the membership committee and currently cochairing the committee on the Executive Board. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family and gardening. She holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education and is licensed in K-12 Mild Interventions and Building Administration along with a certification in Orton Gillingham instruction.

Dr. Aaron Esper

Our PresentErs

Dr. Esper has been with CANoPS since 2013 and was drawn to education and the district for the shared belief that education gives children the tools they need to break cycles of generational poverty. Dr. Esper attended Saint Joseph’s College for his undergraduate work in chemistry and biology. He later attended the Indiana University School of Medicine before transitioning to education and pursuing that passion. He quickly feel in love with the art and science of teaching and went on to get his doctorate from Purdue University and moved into administration overseeing Career and Technical Education and English Language Learners for the district. He is a father and foster father to five children and three dogs the size of small horses with his wife Sabrina.

Dave Ebersol

Our PresentErs

Dave Ebersol is an innovative educator with a passion for fostering creativity and technological literacy in K-12 students. As the Future Lab Coordinator, he spearheads the development and implementation of dynamic maker spaces and pathway programs aimed at empowering students to explore, innovate, and create.

With a background in both education and technology, Dave brings a wealth of experience to his role. He is committed to providing students with hands-on experiences that cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning. By integrating maker space tools and techniques into the curriculum, Dave ensures that students have the opportunity to engage in meaningful, real-world projects that spark their imagination and fuel their curiosity.

In addition to his work as a Future Lab Coordinator, Dave has dedicated the past decade to coaching FRC Team 5484. Under his guidance, this award-winning team has achieved remarkable success, consistently advancing to the state championship and inspiring other teams to reach their full potential. Their motto, "change lives and build robots," reflects Dave's belief in the transformative power of robotics and STEM education.

Rhonda Myers

Our PresentErs

Rhonda Myers is the MTSS Director at Career Academy Network of Public Schools in South Bend, Indiana. She is passionate about learning both inside and outside of the classroom and understands that many factors enhance, but also negatively impact learning. Rhonda has been an educator for the past 35 years, from instructing Pre-K, elementary and college level courses to leading schools as a principal in three local corporations. Rhonda believes all students deserve a safe and engaging learning experience. Most recently she is serving 1500 (K-12) students, staff, parents, and the community to understand that a whole child education prioritizes the full scope of a child’s developmental needs to ensure that every child reaches their fullest potential. A whole child approach understands that students' education and life outcomes are dependent upon their access to safe and welcoming learning environments and rich learning experiences in and out of school. Shifting toward a whole child education has far-reaching implications for the education system. Evidence-based whole child strategies include designing relationship-centered learning environments; developing curriculum, instruction, and assessments for deeper learning; providing integrated student supports; preparing educators for whole child practice; and shifting to a systemic approach to policymaking to support every child.

Dr. Marilyn Nash

Our PresentErs

Dr. Nash has been in education and youth work for over 47 years. She has taught every grade from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade, tutored high school math students, been an instructor for undergraduate and graduate education students, mentored doctoral candidates, and is currently the K5 Maker Manager at Success Academy South Bend. As the K5 Maker Manager, she facilitates numerous small student groups, enrichment sessions, student clubs, whole class visits, and is the Head Coach for the FLL Wolf Pup Robotics team. Dr. Nash also teaches, as an adjunct instructor, an on-site IVY Tech course for those seeking to earn their teaching certificate. She loves developing and creating STEM/STEAM learning opportunities for K5 students in the Makerspace where students can explore and engage in real-world problem solving and learning experiences.

Our PresentErs

Kendra Lisenko, M.Ed., is a fourth-grade teacher at Success Academy South Bend. She has a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and a special interest in integrating those qualities into teacher preparation programs. Kendra received her undergraduate degree from Ball State University in Elementary Education. While there, she was able to participate in an innovative program focusing on school in a community context - looking at how societies influence education and how we can better prepare our students for a democratic society. Kendra was able to publish her experiences with this program in the Undergraduate Journal of Service Learning & Community-Based Research, titled "Community Teaching in a Time of Turmoil: The Beginning of My Journey". She was able to continue her education at the University of Illinois where she studied educational policy, organization, and leadership with a concentration in diversity and equity. Kendra hopes to help other educators see the importance of centering diversity and equity in education for the success of all students.

Our PresentErs

My name is Amanda Martin, and I am proud to be an educator at Success Academy of South Bend Indiana. I am originally from Evansville Indiana, received my degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from the University of Southern Indiana. This will be my third year at Career Academy Network of Public Schools, and my 16th year of teaching.

I have a true passion for working with our youngest learners! Helping each child progress in all areas of development-academic, social, language, and above opening their eyes to the possibilities of the world around them through experiential learning. I have been blessed to join a network of schools that allows me as an educator to think outside of the box when it comes to education. I have an opportunity each day to bring hands-on learning to the classroom through projects and innovative teaching practices that allow my students to be successful in their academic career.

Anita Wigfall

Our PresentErs

Anita Wigfall, MSW is the School Social Worker and City Connects Coordinator at Career Academy 6-12th grade. She is passionate about helping people navigate their destiny through the various challenges they encounter yet focusing on their strengths while learning to embrace the journey. Anita has been in the social service/ mental health field for over 25 years, from Case management, Foster Care Training and Licensing, Probation Supervisor, Placement Officer, Director of Admission for a Mental Health Treatment Facility, Private Practice Therapy, Intake Specialist at a local hospital, to her current position. Throughout the different paths Anita has encompassed, her focus has been on the whole person and their well-being using a holistic approach with different therapeutic modalities. Anita’s emphasis is on “Each one, reach one, teach one.”

Jen Martin

Our PresentErs

Jen Martin, LCSW, LSSW, is the Social Worker and City Connects Coordinator at Success Academy. She has served the youth and families of St. Joseph County for more than 20 years. For the past six years, Jen has been supporting and advocating for the emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing of students at Success Academy. In addition, she leads multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) using the innovative framework of City Connects. The City Connects framework ensures all students are reviewed to identify strengths, needs, and barriers, and a plan for supports is implemented.

Michael Lushbaugh

Our PresentErs

Michael Lushbaugh is an educator and historian whose passion for teaching and love of learning have shaped his career. He obtained his degrees in History and Teaching License from Indiana State University, where he developed a deep understanding of historical events and their relevance to the modern world. Since 2011, Michael has been sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with students at Career Academy South Bend, where he strives to inspire curiosity and critical thinking in the minds of young learners.

Beyond the classroom, Michael's interests are as diverse as his academic pursuits. An avid angler, he finds solace and excitement in the art of fishing, often spending weekends by the water's edge with a rod in hand. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Michael is also a skilled homebrewer, crafting unique and flavorful beers that reflect his creativity and appreciation for quality craftsmanship. Whether he's exploring nature, experimenting in the kitchen, or engaging in outdoor activities, Michael brings the same dedication and passion to his hobbies as he does to his teaching career. Through his multifaceted interests and unwavering commitment to education, Michael Lushbaugh continues to make a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

Andrew Piggott

Our PresentErs

Andrew is the dynamic Makerspace Coordinator at Career Academy Middle and High School, where he orchestrates innovative hands-on learning experiences for students. Graduating with a degree in Secondary Education from Miami University in 2015, Andrew swiftly immersed himself in the educational realm at Career Academy. His journey within the district has been diverse, ranging from being a dedicated middle school social studies instructor to pioneering the middle school STEM/PLTW curriculum. With certifications in six PLTW courses, Andrew is a fervent advocate for immersive learning, firmly believing that practical engagement is pivotal in nurturing modern learners. Beyond the classroom, Andrew finds solace in familial joys, cherishing moments with his wife and two-year-old son. His passions extend to outdoor escapades like camping, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through running, and indulging in the occasional video game adventure.

Andrew's professional trajectory is a testament to his unwavering commitment to educational excellence and student empowerment. As the steward of the Makerspace at Career Academy Middle and High School, he continues to foster an environment where creativity flourishes and students are inspired to explore the realms of science, technology, engineering, and beyond. Whether igniting curiosity through project-based learning initiatives or nurturing thespian talents through his five-year tenure leading the drama club, Andrew's dedication knows no bounds. His holistic approach to education underscores the significance of holistic development, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also thrive as well-rounded individuals. Beyond the confines of the educational arena, Andrew's zest for life shines through his endeavors, embodying a balanced ethos of work, family, and personal passions.

Emily Piggott

Our PresentErs

Growing up on a small Dairy farm, Emily Piggott learned invaluable lessons about hard work, perseverance, and the inherent rewards of nurturing the earth. She witnessed firsthand the cycles of life and the profound impact that agriculture has on communities, economies, and ecosystems. These formative years instilled in her a deep-seated commitment to not only sustain but also enrich the agricultural legacy passed down through generations.

Upon graduating from Purdue, armed with a wealth of knowledge and a desire to make a difference, Emily embarked on a mission to bridge the gap between theory and practice. She found her calling in teaching, dedicating herself to nurturing the minds of young learners and instilling in them a profound respect for the land and its bounty. Through innovative teaching methods and hands-on experiences, Emily has sought to empower students to become stewards of the earth, equipped with the tools and knowledge to tackle the pressing challenges facing agriculture in the 21st century.

Today, Emily continues to be a tireless advocate for agriculture education, inspiring countless individuals to embrace the beauty and complexity of farming. Whether researching about what's new in Agriculture industry standards or standing at the front of a classroom, her passion shines brightly, a beacon of hope for a sustainable future built on the timeless principles of agriculture. In Emily's eyes, the seeds of change are sown not only in the soil but also in the hearts and minds of those who dare to dream of a better world.

Doug Bernhard

Our PresentErs

After graduating high school, Doug Bernhard pursued a technical degree in welding from IVY Tech, kickstarting a remarkable career journey. Beginning in an ornamental fabrication shop, he honed their craft in building railings, spiral stairways, and ornamental ironwork. As the company expanded into heavy structural and miscellaneous steel fabrication, he rose to the role of shop supervisor, contributing to the company's growth into one of the largest fabricators in the area.

With 36 years of experience in the fabrication field, Doug observed a significant gap in the industry—young welders lacking essential soft skills. Recognizing the need for change, they seized the opportunity to lead the welding program at Career Academy South Bend. Here, Doug imparts not only technical skills but also vital life lessons, preparing students for success both in their careers and personal lives.

Since joining in 2013, Doug has transformed the program, overseeing the integration of new and advanced equipment and the renovation of the shop into one of the best-equipped facilities nationwide. Witnessing students land high-paying jobs or even start their own welding businesses brings immense joy, but the greatest reward comes from former students returning to express gratitude for the impact they've made in their lives.

Nathan Kesler

Our PresentErs

Nathan Kesler is a dedicated environmental science educator and sustainable agriculture advocate based in Niles, MI. As an experienced teacher at Career Academy Network of Public Schools, Nathan shares his passion for the environment and agriculture with students, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

Outside the classroom, Nathan is the proud owner of Well Watered Farm LLC, where he cultivates a diverse range of produce, herbs, flowers, and seeds using sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Through his farm, Nathan is committed to providing locally grown, nutrient-rich produce to his community, available both at local farmers markets and online.

Before establishing Well Watered Farm, Nathan honed his skills operating and teaching at a community garden/farm in Anderson, Indiana. His experiences there further fueled his dedication to sustainable agriculture and environmental education.

Nathan's expertise extends beyond his own farm, as he serves as an agriculture educator, sharing his knowledge through engaging lectures on topics such as seed starting, soil nutrients, and seed saving at various community events. Additionally, he imparts his wisdom as an instructor of Principles of Agriculture at Career Academy, shaping the minds of future agricultural leaders.

With a profound commitment to sustainability, education, and community engagement, Nathan Kesler is making a meaningful impact in both the classroom and the fields, fostering a healthier, more environmentally conscious world for generations to come.

Chris Kusnierek

Lucinda Reese

Our PresentErs

Lucinda Reese is a committed STEM educator with a background in computer networking, science education, child psychology, and business management. As a STEM & Education Coordinator, she has pioneered underwater robotics programs, guiding youth teams for MATE ROV competitions with a project-based teaching approach that promotes hands-on learning. Lucinda has played a crucial role in staff development and STEM community outreach, including training educators in Milwaukee and integrating Immersion Science into Boys & Girls Clubs' afterschool programs. She has also facilitated a special internship with The JASON Project, leading students on a Mediterranean exploration with top oceanographers. Recently, she managed the launch of Makerspace Labs and partnerships with CANOPS to further engage youth in STEM, fostering creativity and innovation in technology.

Jamie Denten

Our PresentErs

My name is Jamie Denten and I am thrilled to be teaching history at the Portage School. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame and Loyola University Chicago, I began working as an educator and administrator in International Baccalaureate programs in Rome and throughout the Chicago area. My favorite part of our school day is when we gather the whole school together at “The Breakfast Club” every morning and students take the lead sharing about what’s in store for us. I am so excited to be learning alongside our students as they make history in the South Bend community!

Amy Ryan

Our PresentErs

My name is Amy Ryan, and I teach English at the Portage School of Leaders. I’m a lifelong learner, so I feel very passionately about the ways that our model encourages the same for our students–it pushes them to think of themselves not merely as recipients of information, but as generators of new knowledge. Our focus on student agency and following their curiosity is what makes me excited to come to school. I also love how this is infused into so many different aspects of our day, like our student-led morning meetings and the many independent projects our students come to on their own. Our students are creative, driven, and endlessly incisive.

Away from school, and if I’m not chasing after my two young daughters, my interests are extremely varied—I’m super invested in reading, being outside, working on freelance crime and science writing projects, studying the science of fragrance, singing, and tending to my plants.

Jaime Rayburn

Our PresentErs

Hello! My name is Jaime Rayburn, and I am so excited to be a part of the staff here at Portage School of Leaders. I’ve been teaching high school mathematics in the South Bend area since I graduated college, my favorite class being an applied math course I taught for the past three years. I had the pleasure of being homeschooled K-12 and point to that experience as my main influence on how I teach. I strive to instill independence, self-reliance, and a curious mind in my students through collaboration with their peers and hands-on lessons. When I am not teaching, I enjoy any and all board and card games, my favorites being Monopoly and Magic The Gathering.

Ted Schrader

Our PresentErs

My name is Ted Schrader, and I teach Science at the Portage School of Leaders. I spend most of my free time building, renovating, and creating things out of nothing, which is why I love the projects we create here at the Portage School. I enjoy seeing our students generate ideas, then making those into actual physical products that solve problems.

In my free time I enjoy coaching soccer and being outdoors on our 15 acre Christmas Tree Farm in Southwest Michigan, growing, planting and harvesting tr

Kate Zumbrun

Our PresentErs

Kate Zumbrun is a math teacher at Career Academy South Bend, where she teaches Algebra 2, Geometry, dual-credit Pre-Calculus, and dual-credit Calculus. She is also the assistant girls’ basketball coach and track and field strength coach. She holds a bachelor's degree in math education from Anderson University, a master’s degree in student development counseling and administration and graduate math certificate from Indiana Wesleyan University. Through her twelve years of teaching, she has taught 6th grade math through Calculus.

Kate and her husband, Mike, enjoy hiking and camping with their dog, Morzsa, as well as kayaking. This past summer, they went camping on our honeymoon at Yosemite National Park and Sequioa National Park.

Our PresentErs

Ashley Person