https://simplecast.com The Blueprint Schools Podcast The Blueprint Schools Podcast shares stories of how faith-based schools and their teams move from surviving to thriving. en Fri, 31 Jul 2026 19:54:02 +0000 Fri, 31 Jul 2026 19:54:12 +0000 https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com The Blueprint Schools Podcast https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/8be09400-dfaa-4dd6-a755-1ea49712fd68/77ad3122-f4b6-4763-9ebb-fb6f8cabfa98/3000x3000/blueprint-schools.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com episodic The Blueprint Schools Podcast shares stories of how faith-based schools and their teams move from surviving to thriving. Dana Kirchoff, Blueprint Schools false https://feeds.simplecast.com/cftyePv8 board of education, enrollment, faith-based school, organizational development, principal, school growth, school leader, school leadership, school marketing Dana Kirchoff danakirchoff@gmail.com 5ffddd71-3d14-48ab-86fc-eca43b6f4701 Confessions of a School Leader: I Don't Know What's Next Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 


 

]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2026 19:54:02 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/confessions-of-a-school-leader-i-dont-know-whats-next-DVVrIK8h Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 


 

]]> Confessions of a School Leader: I Don't Know What's Next Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff 00:40:20 Blueprint Schools Founder Dana Kirchoff and School Learning Consultant Ryan Kirchoff dive into the research they’ve just completed with school leaders, specifically a statement that became a major pattern in interviews: “I Don’t Know What’s Next.” They break down why leaders have this nagging feeling, as well as a specific solution to finding the way forward. Blueprint Schools Founder Dana Kirchoff and School Learning Consultant Ryan Kirchoff dive into the research they’ve just completed with school leaders, specifically a statement that became a major pattern in interviews: “I Don’t Know What’s Next.” They break down why leaders have this nagging feeling, as well as a specific solution to finding the way forward. school leadership, school development, strategic planning false full 21 e8634569-9ffc-4529-b168-259c899d5e9d Confessions of a School Leader: I Just Need to Work Harder Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

]]> Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:36:51 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Jake Unke, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/confessions-of-a-school-leader-i-just-need-to-work-harder-2fmycrhi Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

]]> Confessions of a School Leader: I Just Need to Work Harder Jake Unke, Dana Kirchoff 00:52:11 The Blueprint Schools Podcast continues its latest series, Confessions of a School Leader. In the third installment, Blueprint Schools founder Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke unpack the common belief that the answer to a school's needs is "just working harder." They share their own experiences, missteps, and what they learned about the need for strategic leadership (not simply more effort) as the way forward. The Blueprint Schools Podcast continues its latest series, Confessions of a School Leader. In the third installment, Blueprint Schools founder Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke unpack the common belief that the answer to a school's needs is "just working harder." They share their own experiences, missteps, and what they learned about the need for strategic leadership (not simply more effort) as the way forward. strategic leadership, blueprint schools, the school leader partnership, school leader, servant leadership, school leadership false full 20 8668f2bd-c6e3-4283-b76b-7ffc8f08a636 Confessions of a School Leader: "I Keep Thinking I'll Catch Up...Eventually" Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:49:11 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Jake Unke) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/confessions-of-a-school-leader-i-keep-thinking-ill-catch-upeventually-iXYWcF9f Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

]]> Confessions of a School Leader: "I Keep Thinking I'll Catch Up...Eventually" Dana Kirchoff, Jake Unke 00:54:21 The Blueprint Schools Podcast is back with a new series, Confessions of a School Leader. In the second installment, Blueprint Schools founder Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke unpack the common belief that "getting ahead is just around the corner." Drawing from their own experiences, they explore why this mindset can be harmful for leaders, schools, and ministries. They also share what has helped them break free from this pattern and offer practical first steps for listeners who are ready to do the same. The Blueprint Schools Podcast is back with a new series, Confessions of a School Leader. In the second installment, Blueprint Schools founder Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke unpack the common belief that "getting ahead is just around the corner." Drawing from their own experiences, they explore why this mindset can be harmful for leaders, schools, and ministries. They also share what has helped them break free from this pattern and offer practical first steps for listeners who are ready to do the same. blueprint schools, jake unke, dana kirchoff, school leadership false full 19 8a062ebe-8647-49c5-be20-35e7984ead34 Confessions of a School Leader: "I Feel Like I Have to Do Everything" Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

 

]]> Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:30:33 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Jake Unke, Dana Kirchoff, Blueprint Schools) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/confessions-of-a-school-leader-i-feel-like-i-have-to-do-everything-BkHsHscG Visit the Blueprint Schools website to sign up for our Friday newsletter and learn more about how our team can support your school's ministry work. 

 

]]> Confessions of a School Leader: "I Feel Like I Have to Do Everything" Jake Unke, Dana Kirchoff, Blueprint Schools 00:55:03 The Blueprint Schools Podcast is back with a new series: Confessions of a School Leader. In this first episode of the series, founder of Blueprint Schools Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke did into why school leaders feel like they have to do it all, share stories of when they've felt the same way, and explore how believing "you have to do it all" is actually dangerous to your school ministry. They wrap up the conversation with a discussion about what's helped them both move away from this feeling and concrete first steps for listeners who might be believing this fictional bit of school leader lore. The Blueprint Schools Podcast is back with a new series: Confessions of a School Leader. In this first episode of the series, founder of Blueprint Schools Dana Kirchoff and Team Consultant Jake Unke did into why school leaders feel like they have to do it all, share stories of when they've felt the same way, and explore how believing "you have to do it all" is actually dangerous to your school ministry. They wrap up the conversation with a discussion about what's helped them both move away from this feeling and concrete first steps for listeners who might be believing this fictional bit of school leader lore. blueprint schools false full 18 95e30231-bc8a-42c1-b9a0-fc5508c4f9c3 Student Assessment: The Shift from Confusion to Clarity Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog.

Here is the blog series on student assessment, referenced in the podcast: 

Take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school—schedule a consultation with Blueprint Schools today!

]]> Fri, 7 Nov 2025 13:18:58 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/student-assessment-the-shift-from-confusion-to-clarity-JkaDWGEe Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog.

Here is the blog series on student assessment, referenced in the podcast: 

Take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school—schedule a consultation with Blueprint Schools today!

]]> Student Assessment: The Shift from Confusion to Clarity Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff 00:29:53 Episode 017 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast, “Student Assessment: The Shift from Confusion to Clarity” continues Season 2’s exploration of The Shift—the essential changes Christian schools must make to thrive in today’s evolving educational landscape. In this episode, host Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, is joined by lead consultant Ryan Kirchoff to examine one of the most transformative changes a school can make for student learning: rethinking grading. Together, they unpack how schools can shift toward assessment practices that promote clarity, growth, and genuine student understanding. Ryan shares his own journey of transformation—from grading everything to focusing only on evidence of learning—and offers practical steps any teacher or school leader can take to begin making this shift. The conversation challenges long-held assumptions about grades and invites educators to see assessment not as an endpoint, but as an ongoing dialogue that helps every student grow. Episode 017 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast, “Student Assessment: The Shift from Confusion to Clarity” continues Season 2’s exploration of The Shift—the essential changes Christian schools must make to thrive in today’s evolving educational landscape. In this episode, host Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, is joined by lead consultant Ryan Kirchoff to examine one of the most transformative changes a school can make for student learning: rethinking grading. Together, they unpack how schools can shift toward assessment practices that promote clarity, growth, and genuine student understanding. Ryan shares his own journey of transformation—from grading everything to focusing only on evidence of learning—and offers practical steps any teacher or school leader can take to begin making this shift. The conversation challenges long-held assumptions about grades and invites educators to see assessment not as an endpoint, but as an ongoing dialogue that helps every student grow. student learning, assessment, school leadership false full 17 66d477f9-a300-4e84-978b-f5e4160a26a9 Marketing vs. Communications: A Critical Shift for Reaching New Families Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Fri, 26 Sep 2025 16:40:48 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/marketing-vs-communications-a-critical-shift-for-reaching-new-families-N2LJrPyE Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Marketing vs. Communications: A Critical Shift for Reaching New Families Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff 00:38:47 Episode 016 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast, “Marketing vs. Communications: The Critical Shift for Reaching New Families,” continues Season 2’s focus on shifts in education by tackling the often confused roles of marketing and communications in faith-based schools. Host Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, is joined by lead consultant Ryan Kirchoff to unpack why distinguishing between the two is critical for reaching new families. Together they explore how communications keep current families informed, while true marketing builds awareness and trust with new families. The conversation highlights common mistakes schools make, like overinvesting in social media that does not actually reach prospects, and offers practical strategies for prioritizing time and resources. Dana and Ryan also share a clear framework for moving from communication heavy habits to intentional marketing that grows enrollment and extends a school’s Gospel mission. Episode 016 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast, “Marketing vs. Communications: The Critical Shift for Reaching New Families,” continues Season 2’s focus on shifts in education by tackling the often confused roles of marketing and communications in faith-based schools. Host Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, is joined by lead consultant Ryan Kirchoff to unpack why distinguishing between the two is critical for reaching new families. Together they explore how communications keep current families informed, while true marketing builds awareness and trust with new families. The conversation highlights common mistakes schools make, like overinvesting in social media that does not actually reach prospects, and offers practical strategies for prioritizing time and resources. Dana and Ryan also share a clear framework for moving from communication heavy habits to intentional marketing that grows enrollment and extends a school’s Gospel mission. faith-based school, school marketing, school communications, school leadership false full 16 07bcebd5-b5ab-49a3-b15d-93dfcd78d059 Episode 015: A Shift in Focus–From Teaching to Learning Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Fri, 29 Aug 2025 20:04:51 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-015-a-shift-in-focusfrom-teaching-to-learning-5zsU_drT Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Episode 015: A Shift in Focus–From Teaching to Learning Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Kirchoff 00:38:02 Episode 015 continues Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast where we’re focusing on shifts in education. In this episode, Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, interviews her husband and Blueprint Schools’ lead consultant for Student Learning, Ryan Kirchoff. Together they explore the crucial shift from measuring success by how much is taught to whether students are truly learning. The conversation highlights the challenges schools face when focusing on coverage over comprehension, practical tools teachers can use to assess student learning, and how leaders can cultivate a culture centered on growth. They also reflect on how Jesus modeled this same approach in His ministry, offering a vision for classrooms that shape not just lessons, but lives. Episode 015 continues Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast where we’re focusing on shifts in education. In this episode, Dana Kirchoff, founder of Blueprint Schools, interviews her husband and Blueprint Schools’ lead consultant for Student Learning, Ryan Kirchoff. Together they explore the crucial shift from measuring success by how much is taught to whether students are truly learning. The conversation highlights the challenges schools face when focusing on coverage over comprehension, practical tools teachers can use to assess student learning, and how leaders can cultivate a culture centered on growth. They also reflect on how Jesus modeled this same approach in His ministry, offering a vision for classrooms that shape not just lessons, but lives. false full 15 32e79689-58cd-4d3f-a2ac-16d4ca6aa423 Episode 014: Alan Nolte  

Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Fri, 28 Feb 2025 21:35:18 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Alan Nolte, Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-014-alan-nolte-1Ge7tIq7  

Visit the Blueprint Blog and sign up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Episode 014: Alan Nolte Alan Nolte, Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff 00:39:04 Episode 014 continues Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast where we're focusing on shifts in education. In this episode, Ryan and Dana Kirchoff interview the principal of Fox Valley Lutheran High School, Alan Nolte. Fox Valley Lutheran High School embarked on implementing the Professional Learning Community framework (PLCs) about four years ago. The group discusses the power of collaboration, the profound shift that it has on culture and student learning, and some of the blessings and challenges of this pursuit. Episode 014 continues Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast where we're focusing on shifts in education. In this episode, Ryan and Dana Kirchoff interview the principal of Fox Valley Lutheran High School, Alan Nolte. Fox Valley Lutheran High School embarked on implementing the Professional Learning Community framework (PLCs) about four years ago. The group discusses the power of collaboration, the profound shift that it has on culture and student learning, and some of the blessings and challenges of this pursuit. plcs, professional learning communities false full 14 3f48d89b-93c2-476f-894e-e8a6c4154241 Episode 013: Dana Kirchoff SIgn up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Fri, 17 Jan 2025 02:23:37 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-013-dana-kirchoff-kNoGIazE SIgn up for the Blueprint Schools Friday newsletter at www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog. 

And take the first step toward building the future of Christian education at your school together with Blueprint Schools by scheduling a consultation today!

]]> Episode 013: Dana Kirchoff Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff 00:35:04 Episode 013 kicks off Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast! In this episode, Ryan Kirchoff takes the host's seat to interview the founder and principal consultant of Blueprint Schools, Dana Kirchoff. Together they cover three topics: 1. The two realities every school leader and educator balances 2. A simple question that helps keep that balance 3. And a shift that Blueprint Schools is making in the new year to help with that balance, too Episode 013 kicks off Season 2 of The Blueprint Schools Podcast! In this episode, Ryan Kirchoff takes the host's seat to interview the founder and principal consultant of Blueprint Schools, Dana Kirchoff. Together they cover three topics: 1. The two realities every school leader and educator balances 2. A simple question that helps keep that balance 3. And a shift that Blueprint Schools is making in the new year to help with that balance, too ryan kirchoff, blueprint schools, school consultants, faith-based school, christian schools, dana kirchoff false full 13 fc8765e0-8304-4714-b3ff-6aa264ffe594 Episode 012: Justin Danell Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

2:08 - Justin’s path to ministry

6:45 - Why they choose the Progress Report for their ministry

12:07 - What going through the Progress Report process was like

17:20 - The Progress Report and sharing it with the board of ed

23:30 - Why they chose to continue with a Blueprint Partnership

29:16 - What they’ve learned and accomplished so far

]]> Sun, 19 May 2024 23:52:31 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Justin Danell, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-012-justin-danell-cFuOr5_8 Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

2:08 - Justin’s path to ministry

6:45 - Why they choose the Progress Report for their ministry

12:07 - What going through the Progress Report process was like

17:20 - The Progress Report and sharing it with the board of ed

23:30 - Why they chose to continue with a Blueprint Partnership

29:16 - What they’ve learned and accomplished so far

]]> Episode 012: Justin Danell Justin Danell, Dana Kirchoff 00:39:39 On today’s podcast, I interview Justin Danell. Justin is the principal of St. Peter Lutheran School in Freedom, Wisconsin. St. Peter is part of a dynamic ministry that includes St. Peter Church, the CORE in downtown Appleton, an online ministry, and affiliations with Lighthouse Youth Ministry and Time of Grace. Together these groups are known as 922 Ministries. In the last few years, the school has completed a 45,000 square foot addition and is in the process of adding their second classroom at each grade level, as well as continuing to welcome new leadership, faculty, and staff each year. With so much change, it was time to stop and evaluate, build stability, and clarify identity and vision. That’s why St. Peter decided to complete Blueprint’s Progress Report and then ultimately commit to a Blueprint Schools Partnership. It takes courage to submit to a whole organizational review like the Progress Report, but the clarity is worth it - for your leadership and your board, for your faculty and staff, and ultimately, for the students and families you serve. Listen in as Justin shares more about the Progress Report and Partnership process, and how it's helping this ministry not only grow, but thrive while doing so. On today’s podcast, I interview Justin Danell. Justin is the principal of St. Peter Lutheran School in Freedom, Wisconsin. St. Peter is part of a dynamic ministry that includes St. Peter Church, the CORE in downtown Appleton, an online ministry, and affiliations with Lighthouse Youth Ministry and Time of Grace. Together these groups are known as 922 Ministries. In the last few years, the school has completed a 45,000 square foot addition and is in the process of adding their second classroom at each grade level, as well as continuing to welcome new leadership, faculty, and staff each year. With so much change, it was time to stop and evaluate, build stability, and clarify identity and vision. That’s why St. Peter decided to complete Blueprint’s Progress Report and then ultimately commit to a Blueprint Schools Partnership. It takes courage to submit to a whole organizational review like the Progress Report, but the clarity is worth it - for your leadership and your board, for your faculty and staff, and ultimately, for the students and families you serve. Listen in as Justin shares more about the Progress Report and Partnership process, and how it's helping this ministry not only grow, but thrive while doing so. false full 12 a5771e73-7960-4ada-8b3f-96de88c75f9a Episode 011: Ryan Finkbeiner Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

2:12 - Ryan's journey into education

8:48 - Ryan's current role at Mount Lebanon

10:56 - Starting at the bottom

20:15 - Steps and realizations along the journey

44:11 - Growth as a leader

For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com!

]]> Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:18:02 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Finkbeiner.) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-011-ryan-finkbeiner-_N0OvGNm Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

2:12 - Ryan's journey into education

8:48 - Ryan's current role at Mount Lebanon

10:56 - Starting at the bottom

20:15 - Steps and realizations along the journey

44:11 - Growth as a leader

For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com!

]]> Episode 011: Ryan Finkbeiner Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Finkbeiner. 00:52:23 In today’s interview, Ryan Finkbeiner, principal at Mount Lebanon Lutheran School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin shares a remarkable story of transformation…but it’s not all about the numbers or the performance or the test scores. To Ryan and his team, those are just great side benefits to the ultimate goal: sharing the love of Jesus with more students and their families, preparing “disciples, heirs, and leaders,” and creating a place where “teachers want to teach and students want to learn.” In today’s interview, Ryan Finkbeiner, principal at Mount Lebanon Lutheran School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin shares a remarkable story of transformation…but it’s not all about the numbers or the performance or the test scores. To Ryan and his team, those are just great side benefits to the ultimate goal: sharing the love of Jesus with more students and their families, preparing “disciples, heirs, and leaders,” and creating a place where “teachers want to teach and students want to learn.” faith-based school, education, school leadership false full 11 252145f5-92bd-424d-b00b-371660518a4e Episode 010: Nic Kelly Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

3:07 - Nic's background and path to School Choice Wisconsin

8:55 - How do Choice programs help schools Thrive

16:00 - Misconceptions about the Choice Programs

41:41 - Recent and upcoming legislation

45:10 - Where to learn more

]]> Mon, 11 Mar 2024 19:50:24 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Nick Kelly, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-010-nic-kelly-uKe8Jm7m Here’s a breakdown of the episode:

3:07 - Nic's background and path to School Choice Wisconsin

8:55 - How do Choice programs help schools Thrive

16:00 - Misconceptions about the Choice Programs

41:41 - Recent and upcoming legislation

45:10 - Where to learn more

]]> Episode 010: Nic Kelly Nick Kelly, Dana Kirchoff 00:48:08 Today's interview is with Nic Kelly. He’s the President of School Choice Wisconsin, the lead organization working to advance parent choice opportunities in the state of Wisconsin. It’s staffed by experts in government relations and school operations, and they - Work with legislators to expand and improve Wisconsin’s school choice programs - Work with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to insure private and religious schools are protected from burdensome regulations - Work directly with private and religious schools to maximize their participation in school choice programs and to assist them with program compliance In this episode, we talk about Nic’s journey into education and his leadership at School Choice Wisconsin, helping schools thrive, specifically through the funding opportunities that exist for us in Wisconsin, and we dispel some rumors and misconceptions about School Choice. Today's interview is with Nic Kelly. He’s the President of School Choice Wisconsin, the lead organization working to advance parent choice opportunities in the state of Wisconsin. It’s staffed by experts in government relations and school operations, and they - Work with legislators to expand and improve Wisconsin’s school choice programs - Work with the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to insure private and religious schools are protected from burdensome regulations - Work directly with private and religious schools to maximize their participation in school choice programs and to assist them with program compliance In this episode, we talk about Nic’s journey into education and his leadership at School Choice Wisconsin, helping schools thrive, specifically through the funding opportunities that exist for us in Wisconsin, and we dispel some rumors and misconceptions about School Choice. false full 10 2be28fa2-c74a-4bc2-aa5f-46f3d625d182 Episode 009: Todd Russ 1:44 - Todd’s Ministry path

7:06 - What his days look like now

15:09 - Staying in and thriving in ministry

24:00 - How coaching helps us thrive

37:46 - What keeps people from seeking coaching

44:39 - Coaching with Grace in Action

]]> Fri, 9 Feb 2024 20:38:00 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-009-todd-russ-jplK9Tju 1:44 - Todd’s Ministry path

7:06 - What his days look like now

15:09 - Staying in and thriving in ministry

24:00 - How coaching helps us thrive

37:46 - What keeps people from seeking coaching

44:39 - Coaching with Grace in Action

]]> Episode 009: Todd Russ Dana Kirchoff 00:49:22 Listen in to my conversation with Dr. Todd Russ, the Executive Director & Director of Ministry Leadership at Grace in Action. We talk about what he’s learned about thriving in ministry, what makes coaching one of the things that helps us move forward, and also a few reasons why people often avoid it. Listen in to my conversation with Dr. Todd Russ, the Executive Director & Director of Ministry Leadership at Grace in Action. We talk about what he’s learned about thriving in ministry, what makes coaching one of the things that helps us move forward, and also a few reasons why people often avoid it. mentorship, teaching, mentor, coaching false full 9 340e5f26-6fb3-4a41-97f8-118a9a1dcaf3 Episode 008: Ryan Kirchoff Learn more about ChatGPT for Teachers at this link and more about Blueprint Schools at this link! 

]]> Fri, 5 Jan 2024 17:34:38 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-008-ryan-kirchoff-gYEvUFjF Learn more about ChatGPT for Teachers at this link and more about Blueprint Schools at this link! 

]]> Episode 008: Ryan Kirchoff Ryan Kirchoff, Dana Kirchoff 00:35:03 Today I’m really excited to kick off the new year by interviewing my favorite person in the world about one of the biggest topics in education this year. My husband Ryan Kirchoff - who is an instructional coordinator, educational consultant, teacher, writer, and speaker - is on the podcast mic today with me, sharing how AI, specifically ChatGPT, can help our schools and their teams thrive. It’s a topic that we’re both concerned about and truly excited about. We’ve heard the same from so many educators at there - so much so that Blueprint Schools just released an online course for school teams called ChatGPT for Teachers. Listen in as we break down this big topic and share how this course can help your team thrive in instruction, curriculum, assessment, and so much more this new year. Without further ado, here is my conversation with Ryan Kirchoff. Today I’m really excited to kick off the new year by interviewing my favorite person in the world about one of the biggest topics in education this year. My husband Ryan Kirchoff - who is an instructional coordinator, educational consultant, teacher, writer, and speaker - is on the podcast mic today with me, sharing how AI, specifically ChatGPT, can help our schools and their teams thrive. It’s a topic that we’re both concerned about and truly excited about. We’ve heard the same from so many educators at there - so much so that Blueprint Schools just released an online course for school teams called ChatGPT for Teachers. Listen in as we break down this big topic and share how this course can help your team thrive in instruction, curriculum, assessment, and so much more this new year. Without further ado, here is my conversation with Ryan Kirchoff. ryan kirchoff, teaching, educational leader, dana kirchoff, chatgpt, educational technology, chatgpt for teachers false full 8 f10bfcb5-fd70-412e-be21-e50c01dd6a22 Episode 007: Rhoda Wolle 2:27 - About Rhoda

8:25 - Survival mode

31:21 - 7 characteristics of people who are thriving

50:32 - Wrap up and resources

]]> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 14:00:31 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Rhoda Wolle, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-007-rhoda-wolle-LZoIByWR 2:27 - About Rhoda

8:25 - Survival mode

31:21 - 7 characteristics of people who are thriving

50:32 - Wrap up and resources

]]> Episode 007: Rhoda Wolle Rhoda Wolle, Dana Kirchoff 00:56:23 In this conversation Dr. Rhoda Wolle shares how to thrive in our classrooms, schools, and lives as educators, even when we might be feeling like we're just barely surviving or burnt out or the heaviness of the world. She's done an extensive amount of research on it, and her very interesting life has been full of helping others thrive. The things that Rhoda shares, the things that really help us thrive, are really accessible to all of us. In this conversation Dr. Rhoda Wolle shares how to thrive in our classrooms, schools, and lives as educators, even when we might be feeling like we're just barely surviving or burnt out or the heaviness of the world. She's done an extensive amount of research on it, and her very interesting life has been full of helping others thrive. The things that Rhoda shares, the things that really help us thrive, are really accessible to all of us. wellness, thriving, gratitude, resiliency, contentment false full 7 6d9c7397-dfd6-44fa-b542-744a3e33631e Episode 006: Steve Widmer Here’s a breakdown of the episode: 

  • 1:28 - Meet Steve Widmer
  • 4:03 - The biggest pitfalls to avoid in building projects
  • 12:19 - The right order for building project steps
  • 18:08 - A readiness audit and asking the right questions
  • 30:58  - Wrap up

We hope this episode encourages you, sparks ideas, and gives you confidence to move forward in your own school and role. And we hope you share it with a friend, teammate, or fellow educator.

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:56:26 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Steve Widmer, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-006-steve-widmer-z2i5OFDl Here’s a breakdown of the episode: 

  • 1:28 - Meet Steve Widmer
  • 4:03 - The biggest pitfalls to avoid in building projects
  • 12:19 - The right order for building project steps
  • 18:08 - A readiness audit and asking the right questions
  • 30:58  - Wrap up

We hope this episode encourages you, sparks ideas, and gives you confidence to move forward in your own school and role. And we hope you share it with a friend, teammate, or fellow educator.

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Episode 006: Steve Widmer Steve Widmer, Dana Kirchoff 00:38:37 Steve Widmer of Catalyst Ministry Solutions shares how to avoid the biggest issues in building projects and instead how to thrive in the midst of them. If your school is thinking about a building project, planning a building project, or even in the middle of a building project, this episode is for you. Steve Widmer of Catalyst Ministry Solutions shares how to avoid the biggest issues in building projects and instead how to thrive in the midst of them. If your school is thinking about a building project, planning a building project, or even in the middle of a building project, this episode is for you. construction, building projects, school ministry false full 6 54bca061-2314-4be8-853d-d41661e75b14 Episode 005: Ryan Ermeling 1:43 - Meet Ryan Ermeling

9:41 - 4 ways parent feedback can help schools

29:03 - 2 big problems an engagement platform solves for school teams

31:31 - What can schools do with all the feedback they gather? 

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:30:04 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Ermeling) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-005-ryan-ermeling-KkxBaNlL 1:43 - Meet Ryan Ermeling

9:41 - 4 ways parent feedback can help schools

29:03 - 2 big problems an engagement platform solves for school teams

31:31 - What can schools do with all the feedback they gather? 

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Episode 005: Ryan Ermeling Dana Kirchoff, Ryan Ermeling 00:38:28 In this conversation with Ryan Ermeling, creator of Parent Pulse, Ryan shares 4 ways that parent feedback helps schools thrive. In this conversation with Ryan Ermeling, creator of Parent Pulse, Ryan shares 4 ways that parent feedback helps schools thrive. schools, feedback, parents false full 5 62b128cf-a5a2-488c-8f5c-613b6b032406 Episode 004: Cindi Holman 1:36 - Having training and support to be confident and competent in their roles

2:47 - Relationships especially with other ministry leadership

3:20 - Clearly defined tasks and responsibilities

4:09 - Time management and finding balance

5:11 - Professional relationships with other directors

6:23 - Focus on the blessings

7:14 - Taking time for physical, emotional, and spiritual health is God pleasing

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:55:59 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Dana Kirchoff, Cindi Holman) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-004-cindi-holman-OcaF7OO2 1:36 - Having training and support to be confident and competent in their roles

2:47 - Relationships especially with other ministry leadership

3:20 - Clearly defined tasks and responsibilities

4:09 - Time management and finding balance

5:11 - Professional relationships with other directors

6:23 - Focus on the blessings

7:14 - Taking time for physical, emotional, and spiritual health is God pleasing

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Episode 004: Cindi Holman Dana Kirchoff, Cindi Holman 00:12:39 In the second half of our two part conversation with Cindi Holman, the WELS National Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry, we finish our conversation and Cindi shares 7 ideas to help early childhood directors thrive in their roles. In the second half of our two part conversation with Cindi Holman, the WELS National Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry, we finish our conversation and Cindi shares 7 ideas to help early childhood directors thrive in their roles. early childhood director, early childhood ministry, early childhood education, early childhood center false full 4 b8e2c76e-47cd-4ded-8b7d-6b55fc85edd4 Episode 003: Cindi Holman 1:25 - Why Cindi became an educator

2:46 - Why she loves being in educational ministry

6:15 - Where Cindi's ministry has taken her

10:20 - What her role is like as the National WELS Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry

16:15 - Cindi shares 8 aspects of thriving early childhood centers

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Fri, 28 Jul 2023 20:57:19 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Cindi Holman, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-003-cindi-holman-vVwrTCBJ 1:25 - Why Cindi became an educator

2:46 - Why she loves being in educational ministry

6:15 - Where Cindi's ministry has taken her

10:20 - What her role is like as the National WELS Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry

16:15 - Cindi shares 8 aspects of thriving early childhood centers

***For more information about Blueprint Schools, subscribe to our weekly newsletter at blueprint-schools.com! 

]]> Episode 003: Cindi Holman Cindi Holman, Dana Kirchoff 00:48:44 In this special two-part episode, Blueprint Schools interviews Cindi Holman, the National WELS Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry. In part one, Cindi shares 8 aspects of thriving early childhood centers. Stay tuned for part 2, where Cindi shares ideas to help early childhood directors thrive in their roles. In this special two-part episode, Blueprint Schools interviews Cindi Holman, the National WELS Coordinator for Early Childhood Ministry. In part one, Cindi shares 8 aspects of thriving early childhood centers. Stay tuned for part 2, where Cindi shares ideas to help early childhood directors thrive in their roles. early childhood director, early childhood ministry, early childhood education, early childhood center false full 3 aec0e65e-4c3d-4def-959d-a08a2a7f5c7a Episode 002: Shawn Herkstroeter Episode Breakdown: 

  • Part 1: Shawn's journey into educational leadership
  • Part 2: What he's learned about thriving as a leader
  • Part 3: How he now helps support other educational leaders 

To contact Shawn about his coaching program, email him at sherkstroeter@faithlutheranfdl.org

------------------

Blueprint Schools helps educational teams build thriving organizations so they can focus on supporting students, providing excellence in education, and sharing their Gospel mission with more families. 

To get free resources to help your faith-based school thrive, visit https://www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog 

]]> Fri, 31 Mar 2023 17:27:00 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Shawn Herkstroeter, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-002-shawn-herkstroeter-Ng0_N6tL Episode Breakdown: 

  • Part 1: Shawn's journey into educational leadership
  • Part 2: What he's learned about thriving as a leader
  • Part 3: How he now helps support other educational leaders 

To contact Shawn about his coaching program, email him at sherkstroeter@faithlutheranfdl.org

------------------

Blueprint Schools helps educational teams build thriving organizations so they can focus on supporting students, providing excellence in education, and sharing their Gospel mission with more families. 

To get free resources to help your faith-based school thrive, visit https://www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog 

]]> Episode 002: Shawn Herkstroeter Shawn Herkstroeter, Dana Kirchoff 00:41:51 In this episode, we interview Shawn Herkstroeter about his journey into leadership, from someone who never planned on being a principal but who now serves that very role at a thriving school. He serves a couple of other roles, too, as a coach to principals, early childhood directors, and school leaders and as a consultant for Blueprint Schools. In this episode, we interview Shawn Herkstroeter about his journey into leadership, from someone who never planned on being a principal but who now serves that very role at a thriving school. He serves a couple of other roles, too, as a coach to principals, early childhood directors, and school leaders and as a consultant for Blueprint Schools. blueprint schools, early childhood director, educational leader, principal, leadership, school leader, educational leadership, school administrator, educational coach false full 2 96dcaa97-fa03-41ea-b060-9f2584f1bccf Episode 001: Andy Van Weele Blueprint Schools helps educational teams build thriving organizations so they can focus on supporting students, providing excellence in education, and sharing their Gospel mission with more families. 

To get free resources to help your faith-based school thrive, visit https://www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog 
 

]]> Fri, 27 Jan 2023 22:30:52 +0000 danakirchoff@gmail.com (Andy Van Weele, Dana Kirchoff) https://the-blueprint-schools-podcast.simplecast.com/episodes/episode-001-andy-van-weele-cyFvG0nR Blueprint Schools helps educational teams build thriving organizations so they can focus on supporting students, providing excellence in education, and sharing their Gospel mission with more families. 

To get free resources to help your faith-based school thrive, visit https://www.blueprint-schools.com/the-blueprint-blog 
 

]]> Episode 001: Andy Van Weele Andy Van Weele, Dana Kirchoff 00:46:27 In our kickoff episode, we interview Andy Van Weele, principal at Life Lutheran School. He shares the story of how his school went from a struggling school of 19 students to a unique, beautiful, and completely full program. In our kickoff episode, we interview Andy Van Weele, principal at Life Lutheran School. He shares the story of how his school went from a struggling school of 19 students to a unique, beautiful, and completely full program. preschool, teacher, faith-based school, school marketing, non-profit, principal, board of education, educational leadership, school leadership, early childhood teacher, preschool teacher false full 1