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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald is joined by Sandi Derrig and Nicole Warn to share the story of the Student Support and Extension work taking shape across K-4.

Together, they reflect on what it truly means to meet students where they are: recognizing that learners come with different strengths, challenges, and needs, and that equity in education often requires intentional, personalized support. Sandi and Nicole discuss the first year of this work, including how intervention and extension are thoughtfully designed to help students grow academically, develop confidence, and take ownership of their learning.

The conversation highlights collaboration with teachers, responsiveness to student needs, and the importance of viewing support not as a label, but as an opportunity. Grounded in the Catholic belief in the dignity of every learner, this episode reminds us that when schools commit to giving each student what they need, all students are better able to flourish.

It’s a hopeful look at growth, reflection, and the ongoing commitment to serve every child well.

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In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald sits down with Angie Gonzales and Mallory Harris, two members of our front office team, to talk about something that shapes every school experience from the very first moment: welcome.

Often the first faces families, students, and visitors see, Angie and Mallory play a crucial role in setting the tone for each school day. They share how small interactions like greetings, conversations, and moments of care, help create an atmosphere of belonging, trust, and calm in the middle of daily chaos.

The conversation reflects on why a welcoming presence matters so deeply in a Catholic school community, how frontline roles are forms of quiet ministry, and how culture is built not through big gestures, but through consistency, kindness, and attention to people.

It’s a thoughtful reminder that in our schools, welcome doesn’t just happen, it’s practiced every day.

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In this special solo episode of Rooted & Rising, Andrew McDonald shares a comprehensive community update, offering insight into where Billings Catholic Schools are right now and how mission continues to guide the path forward.

Drawing from the April President's Report and systemwide reflections, Andrew discusses key developments including progress in the Facilities Master Planning process, staff transitions and hiring priorities, enrollment trends, academic growth, and investments in safety, technology, and stewardship. He also highlights the vibrant life of our schools, from Early Childhood through high school, where faith, family spirit, and academic excellence are lived out daily through classrooms, service, arts, athletics, and community engagement.

This episode is a transparent look at the work happening across the system: celebrating encouragements, acknowledging challenges, and reinforcing confidence in the direction ahead.

It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and remain connected to the mission that unites our schools.