The GNSF ”We Belong Here” Podcast

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we welcome new Preschool Teachers- Kaylin Meck, Megan Polzin and Koryn Bakken;  new Kindergarten Teacher- Emily Hertel and new 1st Grade Teacher Kristie Dana.
Sit back and find out where are new teachers came from and some of the favorite activities growing up and why they wanted to become teachers.
Stay connected. Stay inspired.Because We Belong Here.

Episode #48 features special guest Lisa York, instructional coach at Grinnell-Newburg School District. A Grinnell High School alumna, Lisa returned to Grinnell after college to begin a career in education that has spanned more than 31 years.
In this episode, we look back on her remarkable career, sharing stories and memories from her decades of service at Fairview, Davis, and Bailey Park schools. With Lisa set to retire at the end of the 2025–26 school year, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the lasting impact she has had on generations of Grinnell students and families.
Lisa truly embodies what it means to say, “We Belong Here,” having been a part of the earliest learning experiences for so many Grinnell students throughout the years.

Episode #47 features special guests Jan Phifer and Andrea Zhorne—better known to many students and families as Miss Jan and Miss Andrea. As Early Childhood Special Education teachers at Fairview Elementary, they’ve spent more than 30 years shaping the earliest learning experiences of Grinnell students.
In this episode, we take a look back at their remarkable careers, sharing stories and memories from decades of teaching preschool in Grinnell. With both educators set to retire at the end of the 2025–26 school year, it’s a fitting time to celebrate the lasting impact they’ve had on generations of learners.
Jan and Andrea truly embody what it means to say, “We Belong Here,” having laid the foundation for countless students’ educational journeys.

Episode #46 of the We Belong Here Podcast features special guest Josh Smith, Principal of Fairview Elementary. Josh has strong roots in the area—he grew up just down the road in Victor and made his way to Grinnell in 2018 as a first-year administrator after many years of teaching in the HLV Community School District and other districts.
In this episode, we dive into a variety of topics, including exciting developments like the new elementary school. Josh’s journey and connection to the community make him a perfect example of what it means to say, “We Belong Here.”

Episode #45 features special guest Kevin Hosbond, an 11th grade English teacher and Speech Coach at Grinnell High School.
In this episode, we dive into this year’s Large Group Speech season, highlighting standout performers and celebrating the groups that advanced to All-State. Kevin also shares insights from his experience coaching and working with students throughout the season.
We’ll also take time to recognize Kevin’s recent honor—being named the 2026 Outstanding Educator in Speech/Debate by the Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA) and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). This prestigious award highlights his dedication, impact, and excellence in speech education.

🎙️ Episode #44 – Jill Harris This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we welcome special guest Jill Harris, retired vocal teacher from Grinnell Middle School.
Join us as we take a journey through Jill’s 33 years of teaching in Grinnell, reflecting on the memories, lessons, and impact she made on generations of students. We’ll also talk about what she’s doing today to stay connected and continue supporting the Grinnell Community School District.
Jill is a wonderful example of the hard work, dedication, and passion our teachers bring to their students every day. Her story highlights what makes Grinnell Schools such a special place—one where truly We Belong Here. 🎶📚

Episode #43 – Zane Strawser-Picado
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guest — Zane Strawser-Picado, Grinnell alumnus and President of the GNSF Board.
In this episode, Zane shares his journey through the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District and reflects on how his experiences shaped his path forward. He continued his education at Wartburg College and Southern New Hampshire University, building a strong foundation for his professional career.
Now employed with Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc., Zane talks about his work in the pharmaceutical industry and how both his family’s deep educational roots and his own experiences continue to draw him back to the Grinnell community. His passion for education and service is what led him to serve on — and now lead — the GNSF Board.
Sit back, relax, and tune in. By the end of the episode, you’ll see why Zane Strawser-Picado is proud to say — “We Belong Here!”

This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Kayla (Juni) Kelly, the new 4th grade teacher at Grinnell Middle School. A proud GHS alum, Kayla shares her inspiring journey back home and the path that led her to the classroom.
Sit back and listen—by the end of the episode, you’ll agree: Kayla is a perfect fit to say, “We Belong Here.”
Stay connected. Stay inspired.Because We Belong Here.

Episode #41 – Bill KostowThis week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we’re excited to welcome our special guest — Bill Kostow, Treasurer and GHS Student advisor liaison for the GNSF board.
In this episode, Bill shares a little bit about himself — where he grew up, what brought him to Grinnell, and different roles he plays in the Grinnell community.  Bill also visits about his involvement with the Link Mentoring in the Grinnell Elementary Schools and how the program involves community men and women mentoring the youth of Grinnell.  Sit back and relax and when we are done you will see why we can say Bill Kostow, you are part of the class to say "We Belong Here!"

🎙️ Episode #40 – Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher
This week on the We Belong Here Podcast, we dive into the “Great Debate” with Grinnell High School senior Debate Team members Peyton Stensrud and Sam Hatcher.
We often welcome GHS students to the podcast to talk about the clubs and activities they’re involved in, and this episode is another great example of student leadership and engagement. Peyton and Sam share how they got started in Debate Club, what the process of becoming a debater looks like, how many tournaments they compete in, and the skills it takes to succeed along the way. By the end of the conversation, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the art of debate.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to debate — Peyton and Sam truly embody what it means when we say, “We Belong Here!”