Stronger Together

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Ashley Turner, principal of Rushwood Elementary, for a relaxed conversation about her path in education and the people who shaped her along the way. Ashley shares what she learned starting in the classroom, how those experiences guide her leadership today, and what matters most to her as she works with students, staff, and families.

We talk about the culture at Rushwood, the sm...

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Rushwood Elementary teacher Ethan Nario-Redmond to talk about his journey into education, his first year in Nordonia, and what it means to build real relationships with students. Ethan shares how a nontraditional path led him to the classroom, the lessons he learned during his rookie year, and the impact of being named Summit County Rookie of the Year.

The conversation explores...

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Carrie Mitchner, a sixth grade math teacher at Lee Eaton Intermediate School. Carrie talks about what students really need at this stage, how she helps kids move past “I’m not a math person,” and the small classroom moves that build confidence over time. We also talk about why relationships matter in math, what has changed about teaching sixth grade, and what she hopes students...

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, we sit down with Mitchel Federan, director of Center Stage Dance Studio in Northfield. Mitchel shares his journey from growing up in the studio to performing on Broadway and eventually returning home to lead a place that has shaped generations of students.

The conversation explores how the arts build confidence, discipline, and belonging, and why community connections matter just as...

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Scott Karlo, Executive Director of the Ohio Public School Advocacy Network, for a conversation about what it truly means to put the public back in public schools.

This discussion moves beyond policy and headlines and focuses on ownership. Public schools exist because communities invest in them, care about them, and take responsibility for them. Scott shares why restoring that s...

In this episode, Casey Wright sits down with Nordonia High School science teacher Aaron Coleman for a conversation about the path that brought her to the classroom and the way she connects students to the world around them. Aaron talks about her early work at SeaWorld, how that experience shaped her approach to teaching, and why helping students understand the story behind the science matters to her. She also shares what drew her t...

In this episode of Stronger Together, Superintendent Casey Wright sits down with Angela Wojtecki, Nordonia’s District Library Media Specialist and 1:1 Integration Specialist. Angela shares how her work connects technology, literacy, and community in ways that inspire both students and staff.

She talks about leading the “Knights of the Tech Table” initiative, helping teachers integrate technology in meaningful ways, and redefining w...

Episode Description: In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Debbie McNellie, a third-grade teacher at Rushwood Elementary and Trustee with the Nordonia Schools Foundation. Debbie shares her journey as an educator, her deep roots in the Nordonia community, and the lessons she’s learned from her students along the way.

Together, they talk about what it means to teach with purpose, build strong relationships, and stay ...

In this episode of Stronger Together, Superintendent Casey Wright talks with Nordonia Hills City Schools Business Manager Steve Marlow. From managing operations and facilities to ensuring that every decision supports student learning, Steve offers a grounded look at the work that often goes unseen but is essential to keeping the district running. Their conversation touches on the importance of collaboration, long-term planning, and...

In this episode, we’re joined by Todd Stuart, Nordonia’s Director of Curriculum, for an honest and thoughtful conversation about the heart of teaching and learning. Todd reflects on his career path, shares his beliefs about curriculum, and explains how professional learning communities (PLCs) shape the work in our schools. We talk about what makes teaching complex, how our district supports collaboration, and why a strong instructi...

In this episode of Stronger Together, we sit down with Chris Simmons, Nordonia High School’s Drama Director and proud alumnus. Chris shares his journey from student actor to director, reflecting on what it means to come full circle in the very program that shaped him. We explore the behind-the-scenes work that brings each production to life, the role of the arts in building confidence and community, and why theater continues to mat...

In this episode of Stronger Together, Dave and I sit down with Mayor Nick Molnar—a proud Nordonia graduate, current parent, president of the Nordonia Hills Rotary Club, and mayor of Macedonia. We talk about what it means to lead in the same community where you grew up, the importance of strong city–school partnerships, and how service, family, and public leadership all intersect. From his days as a Nordonia student to his role toda...

In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Al Huge — longtime history teacher, coach, and proud Nordonia graduate. From his early days walking the halls as a student to decades spent shaping young minds in the classroom and on the field, Al shares stories, insights, and reflections on what it means to grow up in a community and then give back to it. We talk teaching, coaching, and the power of consistency, and wrap it all up with a rapi...

In this episode of Nordonia Together, co-host Dave Sterling joins the conversation to share his journey as an involved parent, PTA member, and member of the Men of Rushwood. We talk about the importance of what makes Rushwood Elementary such a strong community, and how families across Nordonia are helping shape the student experience. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just thinking about getting involved, this episode is a rem...

In this episode of Nordonia Together, we sit down with Nordonia High School Principal Louise Teringo to talk about her journey through education—from teaching Spanish to leading schools in Twinsburg, Euclid, and now Nordonia. Louise shares what keeps her grounded, how she builds strong relationships with students and staff, and why school culture matters now more than ever. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, yo...

In this episode, we sit down with longtime Nordonia High School associate principal Dave Broman—an educator whose name now graces the school cafeteria as The Broman Commons. Known for his unwavering positivity, quiet leadership, and deep commitment to students and staff, Dave reflects on his 23 years at Nordonia, the lessons that guided him, and the legacy he leaves behind.

We talk about the importance of presence, the power of rel...

In this episode of Strong Together at Nordonia, we sit down with Nordonia alumni Catherine and Michaela Bruno—sisters, leaders, and the original founders of Knights Caring for Knights, one of our district’s most impactful student support programs.

Over a decade ago, as high school students, Catherine and Michaela saw a need and decided to do something about it. What began as a simple idea to help fellow classmates has since grown i...