In this episode of 13 Firsts' On Our Mind series, Viet, Giselline, Addison, and David explore how the technology within schools have changed and evolved for the better and worse. They reflect on how they have used technology in elementary, middle, and high schools and the effects it has had on their educational experiences.

Collaborators: Addison L, David S, Giselline P.D, Viet P.

With the emergence of Kentucky House Bill 208, personal telecommunication devices in public schools have been banned during instructional time. In this episode, we examine the opinions of teachers and students in Jefferson County Public Schools and in other parts of the state. Additionally, we explore how the phone ban differs from school to school, as well as what the bill entails and its effects on students and teachers.

Collaborators: Jeremy Y, Abigail V.B, John J, Viet P, Giselline P.D, Aunetra W.

There are a lot of misconceptions that surround 504 plans. Follow Maddie as she explores accommodations for individuals who are neurodivergent.

Collaborators: Maddie L, Avery S, Trai G, Noah M, Maggie S

Hosts Molly Fee and Julian Zimmerman discuss the topic of food insecurity in Louisville and the issues of JCPS lunch offerings.

Collaborators: Molly F, Julian Z, Danica G, Hser Htte S, Daniel M, Cameron L

In this episode, the 13 Firsts executive board talks about our time in high school as rising high school seniors and how we and the educational system around us have changed. We also discuss the evolution of our podcast project and our relationships with each other and our podcast members.

Collaborators: Maddie L, Maggie S, 13 Firsts Executive Board

The First Amendment promises the separation of church and state. But for public schools, this standard hasn’t always been upheld. Join Maggie, Daniel, and Vanessa for our first episode of our third year and season as they explore the history of religion in public schools, and how the two interact today.

Collaborators: Maggie S, Daniel M, Vanessa G.

In this episode, hosts Danica and Giselline introduce JusticeFest, the annual showcase of student-led projects that address everything from racial justice to mental health and educational equity. You’ll hear how this powerful event has fueled change in Louisville and beyond, including projects like the Justice Express Bus and Future Ancestors. Through personal stories and student interviews, we explore how JusticeFest empowers young people to lead, innovate, and advocate for their communities — and what it means when that support is at risk.

Collaborators: Danica G, Giselline P, Cameron L, Ellie M, Kennedy M, David S, Jordyn S, Viet P, Addison L, Hser Htte S, Stephanie N, Daniel M,

Today, 13 Firsts hosts Emilia and Evelyn dive deep into the effect banned books have on a state level through data and sitting down with local Manual staff, students from around the city, and citywide librarians.

Collaborators: Evelyn, Stephanie, Aunetra, Emilia, Cameron, Katie, Addison, and Viet.