Ms. Konrad, Mr. Kneisel, and Dr. Laux on Learning, Growth, and Real-World Skills

In this Special Annual Fund Live Episode of The Late Start Show, we bring something a little different to the table, three conversations, three perspectives, and one shared purpose. In front of a live audience of students, parents, faculty, and alumni, we sit down with Ms. Kimberly Konrad, kindergarten lead teacher and longtime elementary educator, Mr. Keith Kneisel, middle school math teacher and soccer coach, and Dr. Sarah Laux, science department chairperson and outdoor projects advisor at University School. Each guest represents a different stage of the student experience, but all are united by a deep commitment to teaching, mentorship, and building meaningful relationships with boys. From Ms. Konrad’s journey from public school education into the Lower School and her passion for creating a “circle of care,” to Mr. Kneisel’s unconventional path into teaching and his mission to make middle school both engaging and human, to Dr. Laux’s evolution from wildlife biologist to educator shaping real world scientific inquiry, this episode highlights the people behind the mission. Throughout the episode is a powerful reminder of what makes University School special, and how the Annual Fund helps make experiences like this possible.

The conversation moves through early childhood education, the challenges and opportunities of middle school, and the power of experiential learning in science. Ms. Konrad reflects on the importance of play with purpose, relationship building, and helping young boys develop emotional awareness and confidence from their very first days of school. Mr. Kneisel shares how he breaks down the intimidation of math, balances structure with personality, and connects with students both in and out of the classroom, even through something as simple as a growing stack of Mountain Dew cans. Dr. Laux dives into the impact of hands on research, the value of asking real questions without clear answers, and why getting students outside, whether on Lake Kilroy or in the woods, is essential to developing curiosity. Across all three conversations, a common theme emerges, great teaching is not just about content, it is about connection. Each educator opens up about their “why,” revealing that at the center of their work is a desire to make students feel seen, supported, and inspired. This live episode serves as both a celebration of those educators and a reflection of the community that makes it all possible.

Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.