Bullis Voices Podcast

Head of Upper School Dr. Celeste McDaniels, Ph.D. joins Bullis Voices to share how the Portrait of a Graduate comes to life in the Upper School—from classrooms and labs to studios and community spaces—as students learn to think clearly, communicate confidently, and meet challenges with empathy and purpose.

In this episode of Bullis Voices podcast, Head of Middle School Dr. Joe Weinstein-Sears talks about the culture he’s building at Bullis—where students feel known, traditions bind grades together, and meaningful challenge is part of every day. He shares how interdisciplinary inquiry makes learning feel real, how feedback and productive struggle work for 11–14-year-olds, and how the division partners with families so growth is visible at home. Joe also reflects on the whole-child experiences he champions—time outside, creative exploration, and thoughtful challenge—and how those passions shape a Middle School that’s alive with purpose.

Upper School English Department Chair Amanda Lombardo—a Bullis teacher for nearly two decades—shares what a great “normal” day looks like when high expectations and genuine fun live side by side. She discusses helping students find an authentic voice and truly listen across differences, the relationships that change lives, and what matters most as communication keeps evolving. Amanda also offers a parent’s perspective—two alumni (Nathaniel ’21, William ’25) and a current senior (Abigail ’26)—on how English builds skills, confidence, and community across the Upper School.

Lower & Middle School Theatre teacher and Middle School Arts Department Coordinator Chelsie King shares how she builds ensembles where students feel seen, safe to take risks, and grow as artists—and as people. She talks teaching philosophy, influences, her journey in theatre and education, the craft behind notes and rehearsal, how she fits at Bullis, and what students learned performing at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this past summer. A joyful, rigorous look at theatre at Bullis.

Lower School leader Dr. Katy Smullen joins host Mark Riffee to unpack how Bullis students transform mistakes into growth. They dig into Responsive Classroom routines that create psychological safety, how inquiry-based learning invites try–fail–try-again cycles, and the language teachers use in the moment—plus how Bullis partners with families so the “why” is clear at home. A practical, heart-forward look at rigor and joy in early learning.