Stronger Together

In this episode, we sit down with Brenda Basch from Rushwood. She shares her path from growing up in Nordonia to returning as an educator, and talks about the people and moments that shaped her along the way. The conversation covers her work with students, what she loves about teaching, and why this community continues to matter to her. It’s an easy, thoughtful look at someone who gives a lot to our district.

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 what a school library can be in today’s digital world. The conversation highlights how innovation at Nordonia starts with collaboration—and how empowering students to create, explore, and share ideas strengthens the entire community.
Listeners will hear how Angela’s passion for connection drives her work, from supporting digital literacy to amplifying student voice, and why she believes the heart of every innovation is people working together.

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 grounded in the values that make Nordonia Hills City Schools a special place to learn and work. Debbie’s story is one of connection, commitment, and heart — a reminder that we’re truly stronger together.

This episode features Keyshaun Smith, who recently joined Nordonia Hills City Schools as high school principal. He reflects on his journey in education, what brought him back to the community, and how he plans to lead with purpose. Listeners will hear about the lessons that shaped his career, his vision for Nordonia High School, and his commitment to creating opportunities for students to grow and succeed.

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 staying focused on what’s best for kids. It’s a thoughtful discussion about leadership, responsibility, and the power of working together.

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 instructional culture matters more than ever. It’s a look behind the curtain at the thinking that drives academic success in Nordonia.

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 matter for today’s students. Whether you’re a longtime supporter of Nordonia Drama or new to the stage, this conversation offers a candid look at the passion and purpose driving one of our district’s most creative leaders.

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 today as a key partner in our schools’ success, Nick shares his perspective on working together to build a stronger, more connected community.

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 rapid-fire round that gives us a fun glimpse into the man behind the whiteboard.

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 reminder of the impact one person can have when they lead with heart.