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We’re diving into the world of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE)—a fast‑growing powerhouse that’s preparing students not just for graduation, but for real careers in a rapidly evolving world. Hosts Brian Noyes and Samantha Maxey sit down with CTAE Director Dea Kunovac and United Way Senior Director Angela Sparks for a conversation packed with eye‑opening insights and surprising success stories.

Public education headlines in recent years have been dominated by negativity and uncertainty. That narrative, however, does not tell the full story of what is happening in Fulton County Schools.

Beneath the surface and away from the spotlight, a different picture is emerging, one defined by steady progress, improving outcomes, and a renewed focus on what matters most for students.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by executive order of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Of the 3.9 million graduating seniors in 2025, only 161 students received this prestigious designation. An invitation to be a U.S. Presidential Scholar is one of the highest honors for graduates. Nethra Vani Pai of Northview High School in Johns Creek is 1 of 3 extraordinary honorees representing Georgia.

Fulton County Schools is entering the FY 2026–27 budget cycle during a time of increasing financial pressure. Rising operational costs, changes in student enrollment, and evolving local and state funding conditions are creating challenges that require careful planning and thoughtful decision-making. While the district remains committed to supporting students and staff, these realities mean every dollar must be evaluated closely to ensure resources are aligned with our highest priorities.

Under the bright lights of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with the echoes of drums and brass filling one of the nation’s premier sports venues, the Westlake High School Mighty Marching Lions cemented their place in history. In December 2025, the Lions were crowned the ESPN Red Lobster Band of the Year in the High School Division, a milestone achievement not only for the band program, but for the entire Westlake community and South Fulton region.

Guests Alyssia Wright, Fulton County Schools Executive Director of School Nutrition, and beloved district chef Reggie Sloan discuss how school meals are being reimagined by blending USDA standards, student voice, cultural diversity, and culinary innovation to create food students actually want to eat.

This episode of Let's Talk Schools focuses on preparing students and families for the transition to college. The discussion features two experts: Shamona Harrell, Director of College, Career, and Student Supports, and Terryn Prior, a graduation coach at Creekside High School.

The lessons Nicolle Laster shares with her students at Banneker High School will stick with them for the rest of their lives. “Financial literacy is something that is near and dear to my heart,” Laster says. She is a Business Education teacher and part of Banneker’s 3DE Business & STEM program. The focus of 3DE aims to guide students with relevant, real-world concepts, with the goal of setting them up for success long after they graduate. 

The Creekside High School boys football team finished a historic season December 15, 2025 by winning the Georgia Class 4A state championship, defeating Benedictine 42–39 in a thrilling title game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The victory capped a perfect 15–0 season for the Seminoles and marked the program’s first state championship since 2013. Along the way, Creekside set a new Georgia high school football record for most points scored in a season, finishing with 845 points.

Student mental health is more important than ever, and schools are stepping up. In the first half of this conversation, we sit down with Maribel Bell, Executive Director of Student Support, and Valerie Rogers, School Social Worker at Roswell High School. Together, they share what mental health looks like for students today, how families and schools can work as partners, and the initiatives making a real difference in our district.