What does it take to truly connect a school system to its community?

In this episode of CAVTALK, Lisa Stevens—Caroline High School alum and the newly appointed Community and Family Engagement Specialist for CCPS—dives into how communication, trust, and intentional outreach can reshape engagement across a rural school division.

From overcoming barriers like limited internet access to filling the gap left by local news coverage, this conversation gets real about what it actually takes to keep families informed and involved.

You’ll also hear how student-led media is becoming one of the most powerful tools for telling authentic school stories—moving beyond generic messages to voices that actually resonate.

This isn’t about sending information out—it’s about building a community that shows up.

CTE isn’t what you think it is—and CHS is proving it.

On this episode of Cav Talk, Aiden and Faith sit down with Dr. Autumn Nabors and Mrs. Melissa Fry to break down how Career and Technical Education is evolving fast—preparing students for college, careers, and the military all at once.

From real internships inside the school division to student-run businesses, industry certifications, and emerging pathways like GIS and drone technology, this isn’t theory—it’s real-world preparation happening right now.

If you want to understand how CHS is building 3E-ready students this is the episode.

What does it actually take for a high school to land in the top tier in Virginia — not just on paper, but in real outcomes for kids?

In this episode of CAVTALK, we go inside the story behind Caroline High School earning Distinguished Status — a 92.9 score that reflects more than test performance. Dr. Connolly and Mrs. Bucerri break down how students are gaining college credits, industry certifications, military pathways, and real work experience before graduation. This is about graduates leaving with direction — not just diplomas.

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

In this special CAVTALK episode, Superintendent Dr. Sarah Calveric pulls back the curtain on how Caroline Reads is reshaping the county’s future through literacy, equity, and opportunity.

From sold-out adult book clubs to a 500-child Main Street literacy takeover on Saturday, February 7th (10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.), and a bold student-run bookstore café designed to outlive the grant—this is more than a program. It’s a movement.

She’s joined by a passionate literacy specialist whose unconventional path—from books to community building—is sparking change across every age group.

Discover how literacy is being linked to health, income, and lifelong success—and why Caroline County is proving that books don’t just tell stories… they change them.

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left.

What if real leadership doesn’t look like power… but service?

In this episode, we talk with someone who turned small, ordinary acts into extraordinary community change. From opening her home, to fighting for clean water, to building systems that will outlast her—this is what leadership looks like when it’s done quietly and with purpose.

You’ll hear why kindness is a strategy, why showing up matters more than titles, and how one person can move an entire town forward.

This isn’t politics.
It’s people.

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

This week on CAVTALK…

She’s published 17 books.
She lives right here.
And you’ve probably never heard her story.

Meet Kay Brooks—and that’s all we’re saying.

🎧 Tune in clicking on the video to the left. 

Dr. Jean Young went from science teacher to Main Street maker and storyteller—building JB Apothecary and Main Street Historic Tours into two of Bowling Green’s most memorable local gems. She shares how she pours her science background into crafting all-natural candles and body care, and why her pedicab tours have become a beloved way to experience the town’s history and holiday spirit. And with the December 13th Christmas Parade coming up… let’s just say Dr. Young has something special planned for Main Street.

🎧 Tune in for candles, community, and a hint of Christmas magic you’ll have to see for yourself. 

What happens when the dream you’ve chased your whole life suddenly cracks open—and shows you something bigger on the other side?
For Marquis “Real MJ” Hill, a heart condition forced him off the basketball court, but it also opened his eyes to a new pull, a new purpose, a new dream he hadn’t seen before. And even after he healed and could’ve gone right back to chasing the NBA, he realized something shocking: he didn’t want that dream anymore. He’d found something that drove him even more—a mission to raise others up, to be a light, and to make the person on the other end of the screen feel seen, encouraged, and ready to smile again.

That moment—choosing a calling over a comfort zone—is at the heart of his visit to CHS. It wasn’t a quick pivot. It was clarity. Growth. And a decision to pursue the work that made him feel alive.

🎧 This episode dives into what happens when life nudges you toward a dream you never expected—and you’re brave enough to follow it.

This Cav Talk episode is big. Superintendent Dr. Sarah Calveric joins student hosts Aiden Basset and Faith Beazley to unveil a county-wide literacy movement designed to shift the future of Caroline.

This isn’t another school initiative. It’s a full-community push—backed by grant funding and real literacy data—built to make reading visible, joyful, and accessible for everyone.

You’ll hear about:

• The Caroline Cruiser—loaded with free books—making stops across the county
  
  

• Adult book clubs launching in January
  
  

• A bold plan for a student-run bookstore café
  
  

• Main Street literacy events, author visits, and a charity reading challenge
  
  

• A two-year vision aimed at helping every student become truly 3E ready
  
  

Dr. Calveric breaks down the why, the how, and the impact: more access to books, stronger family engagement, and a renewed county-wide reading culture.

It’s ambitious. It’s urgent. And it’s something everyone in Caroline can rally behind.
🎧 Tune in and hear how this literacy movement comes to life.

In this episode, we’re visiting Artism by Joey, the vibrant art studio at 111 North Main Street where 28-year-old local artist Joey Frye turns inspiration from daily life and his own vivid dreams into landscapes and one-of-a-kind commissions. His shop has become a Bowling Green staple, known for its bestselling holiday cards, themed calendars, ornaments, tiles, and a gallery full of original work ready to take home.

We’ll also preview Joey’s upcoming holiday highlights — the all-day Tinsel Town event with a 10 AM art class, and the Bowling Green Parade evening where his shop transforms into a Polar Express Christmas village complete with Letters to Santa for kids.

Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a custom piece before Christmas, or just want to explore a standout local artist’s world, this episode is worth the listen.

🎧 Tune in for an inside look at the artist, the shop, and the holiday magic happening on Main Street. 

Sundry — Bowling Green’s Third-Space Gem

On this week’s CAVTALK: Jingle Gems, we’re featuring Sundry, the cozy mom-and-pop shop that is part of Bowling Green’s growing Main Street revitalization. Owners Louisa Hughes and Casey Holland built Sundry around a welcoming third-space vibe—a place to gather, create, and connect.

You’ll hear about:

• Their rotating lineup of hands-on workshops (sewing, candles, chunky blankets, even fishing bait)

• A storefront packed with goods from 15+ local makers

• Their crowd-favorite antique fabric applique sweatshirts

• Upcoming holiday events, including Men’s Shopping Night and a $5 drop-in craft during the Christmas parade

A small shop with big heart.

🎧 Tune in to discover what makes this local gem such a standout in Caroline County. 

Cavalier Nation, don't miss this episode of Cav Talk with CCPS secondary education leader, Dr. Nabors!

We dive into:

• 26 Years of Education: Tracing her career from English Teacher to administration.

• Curriculum Overhaul: The massive project to align standards and implement the new math program.

• The Critical Focus: Dr. Nabors reveals the two key areas determining student success across all subjects.

• Innovation: Strategies to boost student attendance and achievement.

• "3E Ready": How CCPS is preparing all students for their future.

What would she change with a magic wand? Tune in to find out! 🎧

Hosts Aiden Basset and Faith Beasley sit down with Mr. Jeff Wick, the Coordinator of Safety and Compliance for CCPS, who’s served our schools for 27 years. From his early days as a teacher and coach to leading CHS and Bowling Green Elementary, Mr. Wick shares insights from a career dedicated to keeping students safe and schools running strong.

Hear what his “fancy title” really means, how he found his way from Pennsylvania to Caroline County, and why he’s still passionate about our schools’ future.

🎧 Tune in to CavTalk to hear Mr. Wick’s incredible journey and vision for CCPS!

Cavalier Nation, are you ready for a conversation that could reshape education across Virginia?

In this CAVTALK preview, hosts Aiden Basset and Faith Beasley welcome back Assistant Superintendent Mr. Michael Mudd to discuss the proposed changes to Virginia’s SOL cut scores — a plan that’s still awaiting approval from the state board.

Why do SOLs still carry so much weight? What exactly would these proposed score shifts mean for students, schools, and the future of learning in the Commonwealth?

Mr. Mudd breaks down what’s on the table, what’s at stake, and what it could mean for Caroline County.

🎧 Tune in to hear the conversation that every student, teacher, and family in Virginia should be paying attention to.

This episode of Cav Talk shines a spotlight on two incredible guests, Mrs. Ashlock and Mrs. Mullett whose work reminds us what true dedication looks like.

We explore a profession that one describes as “an entire mountain to climb,” where even teaching how to wash your hands must be done with patience, precision, and heart.

Hear how one guest fell into it by accident, while the other found her calling through a child at church—and never looked back in 23 years. Discover the daily moments that keep them coming back: the laughter, the breakthroughs, and those simple yet powerful words—“I love you so much.”

You’ll also learn why consistency is everything, how a fire drill can feel like “the end of the world” for some students, and why disability does not define intelligence.

From unified basketball to inclusive culinary programs with Chef Jazz, this episode celebrates the strength, compassion, and inclusion happening right here at CHS.

✨ Real stories. Real impact. Real Cavaliers.
Kindness is the key to everything.
🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left.

In Part 4 of the Civic Series, we welcome Sheriff Moser and Major Nutter to uncover the surprising reality of police work — where the day-to-day is “not like what you see on TV.”

🚓 In this episode:
• What drives public servants to stay on the job for “days on end.”
• How community partnerships make or break high-stakes investigations.
• The secret to becoming the “go-to person” and rising through the ranks.

💥 Plus — two unforgettable stories from the field:

• A frightening alarm call at a local funeral home.
  
  

• A routine check that turned violent and sent an officer “knocked over into the parking lot.”
  
  

🔍 Discover how technology and education are reshaping how law enforcement protects your community every day.

🎧 Listen now by clicking on the video to the left. 

In this special Civic Series episode of Cav Talk, we sit down with Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent to uncover what it really takes to set the budget and make the laws in Virginia.

⚖️ In this episode:
• Discover the “Virginia way” of compromise that keeps government moving forward.
• Hear which unexpected 7th-grade subject sparked a lifelong passion for public service.
• Find out why success means being open to what you think you won’t like.
• Get the latest on active legislation supporting CTE students right now!

💬 Is all that effort really worth it?
Hear what drives this leader to “leave this world better than [she] was handed it.”

🎧 Listen now by clicking on the video to the left. 

Public service isn’t just a job — it’s a massive challenge where “no two days are the same.”

This week on Cav Talk, we sit down with Town Manager India Adams Jacobs to uncover the journey that led her to switch careers entirely and take on multi-million dollar infrastructure projects.

⚙️ In this episode:

• Why strategy is essential to keep your local government’s “ship” moving forward.
  
  

• How to find your passion and pursue it fearlessly.
  
  

• The legacy mindset behind her belief that “your work will last beyond the time that you're working there.”
  
  

💬 Plus — discover why civic engagement matters and why India says public service is “definitely worth it.”

🎧 Listen now by clicking on the video to the left. 

Public service isn’t your average nine-to-five job — as one community leader puts it, it means being “on all the time, basically 24.”

In this special Civic Series installment of Cav Talk, we sit down with a dedicated leader from Bowling Green to explore the intense reality of local government.

💡 Topics include:

• The challenge of making decisions “for the good of the whole instead of just the one.”
  
  

• Why self-interest never plays a part in true leadership.
  
  

• The most powerful advice for Cavaliers planning their futures — why continuous learning matters and why you should never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.
  
  

🎧 Tune in to discover why having a voice in your community is always worth it.
🎧 Listen now by clicking on the video to the left. 

This week, we face a challenge that seems “impossible to eliminate.”
We’re joined by Ms. Rachel Wheeler, Coordinator of Student Support Services, to shine a light on National Bullying Awareness Month.

💬 In this episode:
• When does teasing cross the line into “unwanted or unfair” behavior?
• How subtle, nonverbal actions can have a huge impact.
• Warning signs that someone’s struggling — even when you don’t see it happen.
• How to report concerns anonymously and why bravery matters.
• Plus: breaking news about a new county-wide mental health platform connecting students, staff, and families to support.

💡 Don’t miss this powerful conversation on how to be an upstander, not a bystander — and hear Ms. Wheeler’s message of hope for anyone going through a hard time.

🎧 Listen now by clicking on the video to the left. 

In our final episode of the school year, we sit down with Superintendent Dr. Calveric and Assistant Superintendent Mr. Mudd for a thoughtful and lighthearted conversation. Together, we reflect on the highs, challenges, and meaningful moments of the 2024–2025 school year in Caroline County.

But it’s not all business—we also get to know the people behind the titles. Find out if they prefer the beach or the mountains, ice cream or watermelon, and hear about their favorite ways to unwind. We even learn about their go-to vacation destinations and how they stay grounded while leading a school division.

Finally, we look ahead—what’s in store for Caroline County Public Schools as we move into the future?

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we’re doubling‑down on the message that mental health is health—full stop. Join us for a powerful, stigma‑busting conversation with Mrs. Wheeler, Coordinator of Student Support Services, and Ms. Ryan, School Counselor at Madison Elementary.

They’ll tackle:

• Why brain care = body care — how stress, anxiety, and mood affect everything from grades to immunity.
  
  

• Smashing the stigma — language swaps and everyday actions that make it safe to say “I’m not OK.”
  
  

• Early warning signs & first‑step resources — what to notice, who to call, and how CCPS supports students, staff, and families.
  
  

• Building resilience routines — simple, science‑backed habits that fit in homeroom, hallways, and home life.
  
  

Let’s normalize the check‑in, not the breakdown. 💙

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

Caroline High School is launching The Academy Model, and big changes are ahead! In this episode, we sit down with Principal Dr. Connolly and CTE Administrator Ms. Frye to break it all down. Students will soon choose pathways that align with their career goals — but what does that actually mean? How will it affect current students? What exciting possibilities are coming next? Tune in for an inside look at this transformative shift in how CHS prepares students for the future.

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

In this inspiring episode of CavTalk, Assistant Principal Mr. Dudley is joined by Dr. Warner, a representative from the Leader in Me Lighthouse Team, for a powerful discussion on Dr. Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Discover which habits have left the biggest mark on their lives, how these principles have shaped their personal and professional growth, and how you can use them to become the best version of yourself.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or someone looking to level up in life, this episode delivers relatable stories, real strategies, and a reminder that leadership starts from within.

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

In this special episode, we take you inside the CMS STEM Expo, where innovation was on full display. Recorded live at the event, we captured the excitement as students presented their cutting-edge projects and jaw-dropping ideas. 

💡 Tune in and find out:

• What really wowed the judges
  
  

• The student ideas that had the crowd buzzing
  
  

• Why this event matters more than ever
  
  

🎧 Tune in by clicking on the video to the left. 

On this episode of CAVTALK, we sit down with Superintendent Dr. Calveric to discuss the Caroline County Public Schools (CCPS) Facility Study—what it means, why it’s important, and the possible options being considered for the future of our schools.

As the district continues to grow and evolve, CCPS is conducting a comprehensive facility study to assess the current state of school buildings, enrollment trends, and long-term capacity needs. Dr. Calveric breaks down the study’s findings, the challenges facing the district, and the potential solutions being explored to ensure that students, teachers, and staff have the best possible learning environment.

In this episode, we cover:
✅ Why the CCPS Facility Study is happening now
✅ Key findings and concerns from the study
✅ Possible solutions and options being discussed
✅ How the community can get involved and provide feedback

With school rezoning, expansions, renovations, and new construction all on the table, this conversation is essential for parents, students, staff, and community members who want to stay informed about the future of CCPS.

Tune in to learn more about the decisions that will shape the future of education in Caroline County!

🎧 Listen now on CAVTALK!

This episode is your chance to get to know Dr. Connolly as he shares his vision for the school, his personal interests, and some fun insights into life outside of work.

What to Expect in This Episode

🎯 Goals for CHS: Hear Dr. Connolly’s aspirations for the school and how he’s working to make CHS a place where students and staff thrive.
🎧 Music & Hobbies: Find out what Dr. Connolly listens to in his downtime and how he spends his free time.
🍴 Family Life: Who’s the chef in his house? What’s his favorite meal?
🏡 Behind the Scenes: Get a glimpse into the personal side of Dr. Connolly and what fuels his passion for education.

This episode is full of thoughtful reflections, fun anecdotes, and a deeper look at the leader behind CHS’s success.

📅 Available Now
🎧 Listen to this special episode by clicking on the video to the left.

Let’s celebrate Dr. Connolly and the incredible work he does for Caroline High School! 🏆

We’re thrilled to bring you Episode 6 of our podcast, featuring an exclusive conversation with Dr. Sarah Calveric, Superintendent of Schools, and Mr. Michael Mudd, our new Assistant Superintendent. This episode offers a unique chance to get to know these exceptional leaders as they share their personal stories, holiday traditions, and insights into the hiring process.

What to Expect in This Episode

✨ Personal Stories: Learn more about Dr. Calveric and Mr. Mudd’s journeys in education, their leadership philosophies, and their goals for the school system.
🎄 Holiday Traditions: Hear about the traditions they cherish during the holiday season and how they celebrate with their families.
🌟 New Year’s Resolutions: Gain inspiration as they share their goals for the upcoming year.
🔍 Hiring Process Insights: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how leadership roles are filled and what goes into building a strong team.

This episode is packed with meaningful reflections and exciting plans for the future of our schools. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply a community member interested in education, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

📅 Available Now
🎧 Listen to Episode 6 now by clicking on the video to the left.
Let’s connect, reflect, and celebrate together as we wrap up the year and look ahead to 2025! 🌟

Join us as we sit down with an incredible lineup:
✨ Dr. Calveric, Superintendent of Caroline County Public Schools
✨ Dr. Rollins-Fells, Caroline County School Board Member, Reedy Church District
✨ Mr. Black, Chairman of the Caroline County Board of Supervisors, Western Caroline District
✨ Mrs. Pugh-Kent, Delegate of Virginia District 67
✨ Ava Milligan, our very own Student School Board Representative

We’ll explore the intersection of leadership, policy, and education—directly from those shaping the future of Caroline County.

Don’t miss this engaging and inspiring conversation on CAVTALK, where the voices of our community come together! 🎧

In this enlightening episode of CAVTALK, we sit down with Mrs. Paulette Heron, Director of Exceptional Education, to gain a deeper understanding of her role and the incredible work done to support students with disabilities. Mrs. Heron shares insights on the daily challenges and rewards of working in exceptional education and highlights how staff and students alike can make a difference.

As part of Disability Awareness Month, Mrs. Heron encourages our community to reflect on the ways we can foster inclusion and support individuals with disabilities. From advocating for accessible resources to creating more inclusive environments, this conversation offers a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have. Don’t miss this chance to hear directly from an expert in the field on how we can contribute to an inclusive school culture.

Tune in and be inspired!

In this episode of CAVTALK, we sit down with Mr. Erick Childs, Director of Transportation for Caroline County Public Schools, in recognition of National School Bus Safety Week 🚌.

Ever wonder what it takes to keep an entire fleet of school buses running smoothly and on time? Mr. Childs gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day life of a transportation supervisor, from coordinating routes to managing driver schedules and handling the unexpected challenges that come with the job.

We also explore:

• The critical role of the transportation team in student safety.

• Training and responsibilities that ensure bus drivers are prepared 🚍.

• Protocols for student safety during boarding, riding, and exiting the bus.

• Safety tips for parents, students, and the community to follow 🚸.

And, of course, we recognize the hard work of the drivers and transportation staff who go above and beyond every day to get students to school safely.

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation! Discover what it really takes to run a transportation department and how safety is everyone’s responsibility—on and off the bus

Join us for this special episode of CAVTALK as we sit down with Caroline High School alumni and teacher Señor Perkins to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. In this episode, Señor Perkins shares his experiences living abroad in Peru and Brazil, offering a unique perspective on the vibrant cultures that define Hispanic heritage. From his time as a student here to his journey as a teacher, he provides thoughtful insights on the importance of recognizing and honoring Hispanic contributions both in our community and around the world. Don’t miss this engaging and inspiring conversation!

Join us for the premiere episode of CAVTALK, where we sit down with our very own Superintendent  Dr. Calveric and Mrs. Wheeler, Coordinator of Student Support Services. In this episode, we dive into the importance of Suicide Awareness Month and Attendance Awareness Month, discussing the critical support systems in place for students. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how our school community is taking action to support student well-being and success. Tune in and stay informed!