From the Horse's Mouth

In this episode of From the Horse’s Mouth, host Jay Barron is joined by four Upper School students who interned with the Echo Foundation to study and share with the community about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its effects on humanity. The group covers the pros and cons of the technology, how they tackled writing curriculum together, and what their internship experience was like. Tune in to learn how internship experiences can benefit our students and how they tackle ethical and societal t...

In this very special episode, Jay Barron passes the mic to Lower School Administrative Assistant (and unofficial mayor of PD) Dee Smith! Known for knowing everyone on campus, Dee sits down with Shavonn Perkins (Second Grade Teacher), Amanda Matthews (Third Grade Teacher's Assistant), and Reagan Pacheco (Lower School French Teacher) for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about life in and out of the classroom. From laugh-out-loud student stories and unforgettable teaching mishaps to quiet...

As commencement approaches, three seniors — Kendall Amiri, Harry O'Neil, and Sanaya Lee — join host Jay Barron to open up about their time at PD, navigating the college admissions process, and the advice they’d give to those following in their footsteps. Tune in for favorite memories, lessons learned, and what they’ll carry long after graduation. Congratulations to the Class of '25 — we're so proud of you!

In this episode of From the Horse's Mouth, host Jay Barron sits down with three students new to Providence Day: freshman Brooks Freeman, sophomore Ginny Anne Dumont, and junior Ibby Kahn. Together, they discuss what it’s like to adapt to a new school, from balancing academics, sports, and social life to getting involved and finding their place at PD. Hear their take on PD's unique quirks, the differences in size and culture compared to their previous schools, and their advice for other new st...

In this episode of From the Horse’s Mouth, host Jay Barron dives into the rich, complex history of the Sardis area with faculty members David Harris and Thamar Lebrón, alongside senior Aashir Sura '25. Together, they explore hands-on ways to teach history through a local lens, using the stories of a nearby enslaved cemetery dating back to the 1600s to engage students beyond the textbook. Discover how the past shapes our present and why understanding local history is essential to shaping our f...

In the second episode of season five, host Jay Barron sits down with Parents' Association President Britt Tuite, Charger Club President Tyhler Lynch, and parent volunteer Samie Roberts to discuss their roles at Providence Day. Hear how these dedicated parents give back to the school, the fun and rewarding experiences they’ve had, and how volunteering helps them connect with the PD community.

On this special bonus episode of "From the Horse’s Mouth," guest host and Middle School computing and innovation teacher Dr. Wesley Fryer chats with Director of E-Sports Kalon Davis and graduating senior Jayden Stuart ’24. Tune in as they explore the dynamic world of e-sports, its rising popularity at PD, and the impact it has on students and the school community.

As the 2023–24 school year wraps up, seniors Brook Ephrem, Cassie Miller, and Emerson Smith join host Jay Barron to reminisce about their time at PD. Tune in to hear their insights on the college admissions journey, tips for incoming Upper Schoolers, and the value of embracing versatility. Plus, get ready for some laughs with a mix of embarrassing and amusing anecdotes!

On this week’s episode of From the Horse’s Mouth, host Jay Barron interviews Environmental Sustainability Coordinator and Upper School English Teacher, Jack Hudson, senior Sophie Mao ’24, junior Meha Khanna ’25, and senior Frankie Castellucci ’24, on a topic that’s ever more present in our daily lives: sustainability. Listen in as we discuss their journey into environmentalism and renewability, and how we can all take steps to make a difference both locally and abroad.

VIEWER DISCRETION: This podcast touches on some sensitive subjects related to mental health. Our host, Jay Barron, speaks to Student Services Director Lisa Bernard, eighth grader Ana Arronte, ninth grader Cole Zapata, and tenth grader Caroline Krell. They openly and honestly discuss what mental health means in the context of their lives and being a PD student. Listen as they share their insight about personal struggles and triumphs. Plus, you will learn some helpful tips on dealing wi...

In 2021, College Board announced that I would be piloting a new AP African-American Studies course beginning in the 2022-2023 school year. Since this announcement, the course has been the target of both celebration and consternation across the country. Upper School English and history Department Chairs Marcus Smith and Ted Dickson, respectively, are at the helm of PD's effort to bring AP African-American Studies to the classroom. How'd they do it? Hear from them in this special Black History ...

A year ago, Providence Day launched a Teaching Fellows Program to recruit recent college graduates to learn teaching and leadership and bring more inclusion and belonging to the teaching profession. So how's the first year going? Hear from PD's five Teaching Fellows in an episode guest-hosted by Fellow Will McCorn.