Director Of Education, Microsoft

Author: Good Brain Bad Brain

Quotes of the Podcast: Schools are places where society is created and recreated, so, it follows, teachers are the architects of that preferred future.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Mark Sparvell is a global award wining educator and leader, currently a Director of Marketing at Microsoft, specializing in education. He leads strategy, messaging, and customer storytelling across AI, data, and cloud solutions, partnering with K‑12 and higher education leaders globally to drive meaningful, responsible digital transformation

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• EI
• AI
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

My Superspeaks podcast http://aka.ms/superspeakspodcast 

Buy my book http://bit.ly/goodbrainbadbrain Book a keynote http://marksparvell.com

Explore education stories http://aka.ms/educustomerstories

Explore education videos http://aka.ms/educustomervideos 

Try Reading Coach http://coach.microsoft.com

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Patty McGee

Author, Educator, and Consultant 

Quotes of the Podcast: That is a wildly difficult question for a literacy person. So, I have narrowed it down to my favorite quote from the last book I read. “And when you open your heart to rewilding a landscape, the truth is, you’re opening your heart to rewilding yourself.” Once We Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

 Patty McGee is a nationally recognized literacy consultant, speaker, and educator passionate about transforming classrooms into spaces where language and learning come alive. With decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and advocate for delightful literacy practices, Patty has worked alongside educators across the country, partnering to unlock the full potential of their students through innovative and practical teaching strategies. Not Your Granny’s Grammar is her third book. Connect with Patty at www.pattymcgee.org

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• A whole new approach to grammar instruction
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Not Your Granny’s Grammar

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Founder of NonBinary Solutions 

CEO of KidsChoice Therapy

Quotes of the Podcast: “Wisdom is like frequent-flyer miles and scar tissue; if it does accumulate, that happens by accident while you're trying to do something else.” Barbara Kingsolver 

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Amanda “Mandy” Ralston, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, is a CEO, behavior analyst, and serial founder with more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of autism services, applied behavior analysis, and technology-driven innovation. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of KidsChoice Therapy, leading multi-site pediatric therapy and autism service operations with a focus on clinical excellence, scalable systems, and equity-centered care. Known for her signature nonbinary thinking framework, Ralston speaks nationally on compassionate care, cognitive flexibility, and the future of behavioral health, bringing a pragmatic yet creative voice to conversations about ethics, outcomes, and neurodiversity-affirming practice.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?

• What drew you to education?
• How nonbinary thinking can help educators move beyond “compliant vs. noncompliant” and really understand student behavior in context. 
• What truly neurodiversity-affirming classrooms look like and how schools, families, and clinicians can partner so kids don’t have to be three different people in three different settings. 
• Using nonbinary thinking to rethink “behavior problems” in schools  
• What neurodiversity-affirming practice actually looks like in real classrooms  
• How schools, families, and clinicians can work together instead of in silos 
• How we move past binaries like “good/bad kid” or “compliant/noncompliant” and into more flexible, compassionate ways of understanding behavior. That ties into neurodiversity-affirming classrooms and better partnerships between educators, families, and therapy providers.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Thanks to Dr. Karly Kordvoa and the RBT Textbook that I was recently asked to contribute to. We also just talked about it on her podcast The Grey Area. 

Dr. Genevieve Leonard Series by Estelle Ryan

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Lead Strategist, Learning Ecosystems Design Consulting

Quotes of the Podcast: "The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn." — Alvin Toffler

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

With three decades working with schools, school systems, regional and state agencies and national education organizations David Cook, Principal Strategist at Learning Ecosystems Design, is an expert on what it takes to make change happen in education systems. David is a nationally respected voice in the transformation conversation. He retired in 2024 from the state agency level after 27 years at the Kentucky Department of Education, the last 15 as Director of Innovative Learning. During his tenure he has:

· Oversaw a statewide initiative to shift assessment, accountability and the credentialing of learning from a one size fits all state level approach, to one where communities design Local Accountability Models that measure the competencies found in a Portrait of a Learner/Graduate and provide a public facing dashboard for those local indicators. (2021-2024).  

·   Directed Kentucky's development of a competency-based education system including the initial efforts in developing a Portrait of a Learner

· Co-authored and implemented the first district level innovation zone program in the country, Kentucky's Districts of Innovation Program (2013). 

· Designed and implemented the longest continuously operating statewide remote learning system in the country, Kentucky's Non-Traditional Instruction Program (2011).

· Authored Kentucky's award-winning Education Recovery Program (2010).

· Has authored and co-authored numerous pieces of legislation and Kentucky Board of Education administrative regulation. 

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• The Driving Test,
• The Need for A NEW Education System
• The AI Telescope
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

What School Could Be - Dintersmith

The End of Average - Rose

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Imagination Project

Quotes of the Podcast: 

All failures of the future will be failures of the imagination. 

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Wylde Scott is a Sultan, Matador, and Knight through and through, who has lived in Shanghai, Bangkok, and Timbuktu and still keeps a house on the bright side of the moon… When not living in his imagination, Wylde is an award-winning children’s author and founder of The Imagination Project and Wylde Scott Entertainment. In addition to dreaming up fantastic tales for young readers, Wylde spends his time in elementary schools, bookstores, and libraries creating fun-filled events for children, parents, and teachers alike. His mission is to ignite imaginations worldwide and empower children with the mindset that anything is possible. On his YouTube channel for kids, Wylde is committed to creating safe, educational, and exciting content for young children based on imagination and play. His many years spent studying storytelling, the imagination, and creativity, combined with his extensive experience applying those lessons in live environments, are the foundations of this book.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators. 

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Why is Imagination the most important skill for the age of Artificial Intelligence. 
• Imagination is not a mystery. It is a very buildable skill set everyone can utilize. - we just need time and attention. Our current scaffolding for education will not work in the 21st Century. We must adjust to meet the circumstance. Those who don't will be left behind. 
• We can reframe and rework education so that both Children AND teachers come to school excited, energized and ready to learn and build. 
• Should we have AI in Education? 
• Why are the years of 5-10 so important to develop these skills? 
• What should a typical day look like for a developing child?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Jonathan Haidt's book The Anxious Generation is the first to seriously discuss what technology is doing to our youth. 

Biggest Fan of Sir Ken Robinson- can't believe twenty years later little has changed.

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VP of Strategic Initiatives, America Succeeds

Quotes of the Podcast: "We know more than we can tell" - Michael Polanyi

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Michael Crawford is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at America Succeeds, where he leads efforts to advance durable skills. Prior to this role, Michael held positions in research, strategy, and partnerships at organizations including VELA, WGU, Real World Scholars, and the Kauffman Foundation. He is a frequent speaker, mentor, and facilitator on topics like human development, entrepreneurship, and the future of learning. Michael holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan, an MS in Sport Psychology from Michigan State University, and a PhD in Educational Psychology from the University of Kansas. Outside of work, he enjoys time with loved ones, traveling, and reading voraciously across a wide range of topics.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Speaker on the Future of Learning
• Durable skills  - Pathsmith
• implications of AI on Durable Skills 
• Research Practice Collaborative [high school research])
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?” 

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

(podcast) 'Your Undivided Attention' by The Center for Humane Technology

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Quote of the Podcast: 

"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not" -The Lorax, Dr. Seuss

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Taught Kindergarten at Deep Springs Elementary in Fayette County from 1999 - 2010. Served as the President of the Fayette County Education Association from 2010 - 2025. Began the term as the Vice President of Kentucky Education Association in June of 2025. Was appointed to the Early Childhood Task Force in 2008 by Governor Steve Beshear.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators. 

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Upcoming 2026 Legislative session and need for additional funding for public schools.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

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Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Angelo Biasi is a senior level business executive and transformational leader with a strong track record of developing high-growth, innovative, lifelong learning businesses, and initiatives. His proven ability to disrupt, create, and execute on successful GoTo Market - through to exit – strategies, plans and processes has involved operations, fundraising, product management, business development, human capital, market positioning and segmentation, lead generation and revenue / profitability growth. Mr. Biasi is a motivational manager / coach and influential member of high-performing executive leadership teams.
 
Over the past fifteen years, Angelo has acted on a passion to transform education at a global scale and his experience in starting and leading high tech, mobile, and media businesses, to pioneer award-winning integrated education solutions that have changed the way we teach and learn. This led to a recent exit for MassiveU, Inc. a company he founded in 2013.
 
 As a lifelong learner, recently completing an MIT Sloan leadership program and executive ScalingUp coaching certification, Angelo continues to seek and implement the most advanced and effective tools, processes and methodologies necessary for high-velocity, people-centric growth, transformation, and shareholder return.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about your journey in tech and education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

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Superintendent and author, Flemming County Schools 

Quotes of the Podcast: 

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” — Robert Frost.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Brian K. Creasman, Ed.D., currently serves as Superintendent of Fleming County Schools in Kentucky, a position he has held since 2014. As the recipient of the 2020 Kentucky Superintendent of the Year award, Dr. Creasman proudly proclaims on his social media accounts that he has "the best job in Kentucky," reflecting his deep passion for education and leadership. 

Dr. Creasman brings a diverse and extensive background in education, spanning rural, suburban, and urban settings. Throughout his career, he has served in various roles, including assistant superintendent, high school and middle school principal, assistant principal, instructional technologist, and classroom teacher. In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Dr. Creasman is a respected author, contributing to several notable publications: - "The Leader Within: Understanding and Empowering Teacher Leaders" - "Growing Leaders Within: A Process toward Teacher Leadership" - "Can Every School Succeed? Bending Constructs to Transform an American Icon" - "ConnectED Leaders: Network and Amplify Your Superintendency" - "Maximum Impact: Boards of Education and Superintendents Communicating as a Team" - "Prioritizing Health and Well-being: Self-care As a Leadership Strategy for School Leaders" 

Dr. Creasman is frequently sought after to contribute his expertise to articles, books, and blogs within the field of education. His weekly blog, "Measures of Quality," is widely read by educators, principals, practitioners, researchers, and educational leaders worldwide. This blog is dedicated to exploring next-generation accountability models, specifically local accountability, demonstrating his commitment to advancing education through innovative and effective practices.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Your journey in Local Accountability
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Author of multiple books, including “Can Every School Succeed?” Author page

Measures of Quality LinkedIn Newsletter

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Fullscale Learning

 Quote of the Podcast: 

If you come upon a wall, throw your hat over it and go get your hat.

 Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Virgel Hammonds

Virgel Hammonds, a nationally recognized leader in education innovation, joined the Aurora Institute as CEO in 2024. He brings more than two decades of experience working with young people, educators, districts, and policymakers to advance learner-centered systems. Most recently, Virgel served as Chief Learning Officer at KnowledgeWorks, where he built partnerships with national leaders and local communities to redesign learning systems. Previously, he was superintendent of Maine’s RSU 2, leading five communities in implementing a mastery-based curriculum, and earlier served as a high school principal at California’s Lindsay Unified School District, helping implement a personalized, mastery-based learning model.

Virgel serves on the boards of PBLWorks, Learner-Centered Collaborative, and Jobs for Maine Graduates, and is Board Chair Emeritus of the Aurora Institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and a Master of Education from Fresno Pacific University.

Beth Rabbitt

Beth Rabbitt is Chief Executive Officer of The Learning Accelerator (TLA) and a nationally recognized expert in education innovation, with more than 20 years of experience across the K–12 nonprofit, philanthropic, and private sectors.

Before becoming CEO in 2016, Beth was a founding Partner at TLA, leading work on educator training systems and research on emerging learning models. Her prior roles include Director of Human Capital at a start-up school system in Newark, Associate Partner at NewSchools Venture Fund, consultant with Education Resource Strategies, and founding Doctoral Fellow at the Harvard Innovation Lab.

Beth is a Pahara-Aspen Education Fellow and serves on nonprofit boards including Catalyst:Ed, GiveThx, and Portland Parks Conservancy. She earned a B.A. from Dartmouth College and an Ed.L.D. from Harvard University. Beth lives in Portland, Maine, with her husband and two daughters and is deeply motivated to create better learning experiences for every child.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Merger to Full Scale
• Multiple Ps Policy, Practice, Progress, People.
• Time as a resource
• Building community to change togehter
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Fixable- Podcast

https://symposium2025.fullscalelearning.org/

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Author REFRAME & Co-Founder Curious Learning

Quotes of the Podcast: 

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela 

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

TINSLEY GALYEAN, author of REFRAME, is a technologist, designer, and co-founder of Curious Learning, a global nonprofit dedicated to eradicating illiteracy. He holds a PhD from the MIT Media Lab and works at the intersection of education, storytelling, and digital innovation, creating interactive experiences for museums and programing for networks like Discovery Kids, Disney, and Warner Bros. Under Galyean’s leadership, Curious Learning has made its literacy apps available in 60 languages, reaching children in diverse communities worldwide, many with little or no access to formal schooling. By partnering with parents, educators, NGOs, and governments, the organization has helped children in some of the most resource-constrained settings begin their reading journey. Curious Learning’s work is recognized for its commitment to mother-tongue instruction and its focus on data-driven evaluation to ensure real, lasting impact. To learn more, visit: www.curiouslearning.org

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Why curiosity is not a “soft skill,” but a core learning strategy for the 21st century 
• How infrastructure, not mindset, gets in the way of learning 
• Deploying technology effectively in low-resource environments 
• The neuroscience of reading and what it reveals about how children learn best 
• Why top-down education reform often fails — and what grassroots, community-based innovation gets right 
• Why overcoming self-limiting beliefs is key to success for leaders of any organization.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Reframe: How Curiosity and Literacy Can Redefine Us

www.curiouslearning.org

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VP Client and Community Relations Director, PNC Bank

Quote of the Podcast: 

 “"It’s not so much what we have in this life that matters. It’s what we do with what we have." Fred Rogers

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Yajaira Aich West is a Vice President at PNC Bank and serves as the Director of Client and Community Relations. In this role she manages the philanthropic investments in the fifteen counties where PNC has a presence in the central and eastern half of the state of Kentucky and southeast portion of Ohio, coordinates the client events produced by the bank and leads employee initiatives around health and wellness. 

Yajaira graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Transylvania University in 2004 and earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business and Economics in 2011.  

Yajaira is an active member of the community via volunteerism and board service. She is currently a Lexington Public Library Trustee, on the board of directors at the Kentucky Chamber Foundation, Commerce Lexington Foundation, Urban League of Lexington-Fayette County, Child Care Council of Kentucky and on the Policy Council for Bluegrass Community Action Partnership. She is a graduate of the Commerce Lexington’s Leadership Lexington and Leadership Central Kentucky and the Leadership Kentucky programs.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

·      30,000 Ft. View -Why should we as a society invest in education?

·      How did you come to be involved with the support of education at PNC?

·      What do you love about what you do, specifically in the education space?

·      PNC’s philanthropic efforts in educational initiatives (early childhood education, financial education, grants to economic empowerment etc).

·      What are the biggest challenges to you?

·      What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

www.PNCgrowupgreat.com

www.pnc.com

I’d recommend a relatively new podcast called “Good Hang with Amy Poehler” because she does something different before each interview, she chooses someone close to the guest and records a conversation where they talk “Good behind their back.” It is an uplifting and joyful podcast and a reminder that we can always talk good behind someone’s back.  

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Founder, Dove Training & Innovations 

Quote of the Podcast: 

Your heart has to be able to handle the weight of your divine calling - bell hook

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Dr. Lisa Hammonds is the founder of Dove Training & Innovations and a passionate, results-driven Learning Experience & Development Consultant with a proven track record of helping professionals reimagine training design and facilitation. She has partnered with clients across various industries, equipping them with strategies to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire action. Her signature Train the Trainer program empowers trainers, coaches, educators, and speakers to confidently design and facilitate engaging experiences that connect with learners, build lasting impact, and drive transformation. Prior to her work in training and development, Dr. Hammonds built a successful career in software development and continues to integrate technology solutions into her training design and development initiatives. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Hammonds is a dedicated community advocate. She actively supports adult literacy programs and other community initiatives, using her expertise to expand access to learning and help individuals gain the skills they need to thrive.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Ways to designing training to inspire action, build confidence and empower. 
• Experiential learning, AI and training and development.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?” 

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts 

Think Again by Adam Grant 

The Accidental Instructional Designer by Cammy Bean

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Co-Founder & Change Consultant, 

The Educators' Lab

Quotes of the Podcast: 

“Think of what you want to be different and start from there.” Priya Parker, The Art of Gathering 

“While individual curiosity can produce incredible feats, our collective curiosity is the motor behind humanity’s biggest innovations. Conversations feed our imagination, and collaboration enables us to dream bigger. In fact, we are wired to function at our best when tapping into shared knowledge and the support of a community.” Anne-Laure Le Cunff, Tiny Experiments

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Darcy believes in the power of education to change lives and the power of TEACHERS to lead that change. To help teachers do this work, she co-founded The Educators' Lab USA and is a board member of The Educators’ Lab Global. She designed and facilitated The Teacher Empowerment Incubator, a pilot program that supports rural teachers as community collaborators and problem-solvers. 

A classroom teacher for over a decade, Darcy creates the type of PD she always wanted, driving change in education and empowering teachers as changemakers. Through her work, teachers reconnect with their purpose, rekindle their spark for teaching, and reignite the JOY of teaching and learning. 

In addition to her joy work, Darcy is the co-author of The Startup Teacher Playbook, a frequent contributor to Edutopia, holds a Master’s of Secondary Education, is an ISTE Certified Educator, and is an experienced international presenter and keynote speaker. She's ALWAYS up to brainstorm and collaborate. She lives in Fargo, ND, with her husband and their triplets.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• The lessons Education CAN learn from business 
• Why Joy & How Joy helps spark ACTION 
• The importance of play (playing with ideas, playing in the classroom, PLAY!)
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Book I Wrote: The Startup Teacher Playbook Books I recommend: Wintering, The Art of Gathering, Tiny Experiments- ALL GREAT reads Website: TheEducatorsLab.com

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CEO

The Research Sage 

Quotes of the Podcast: 

Make yourself an example of good works with integrity, dignity and incorruptibility in your teaching. Titus 2:7 CSB 

What a school thinks about its library is a measure of what it feels about education. -Harold Howe.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Marj Atkinson received her Master of Library Science from Texas Woman's University in 2012 (as a true nontraditional grad student). She is an academic success coach specializing in personalized support for nontraditional graduate students and research solutions for authors, faculty, small businesses, and nonprofits. She leads engaging workshops including resource organization, literature reviews, AI best practices, and market research tools. With a background spanning libraries, financial services, IT, and nonprofits, Marj is known for helping people find exactly what they need—so if you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, ask Marj!

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Challenges of nontraditional Grad students in online programs and the lack of resources they receive, especially at but not exclusive to under-resourced schools such as HBCUs. 
• Also discussions on AI and academic integrity. And the 
• lack of "pipelines" in so many professions from K12 to Higher Ed.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

I'm featured in Careers in Library and Information Services, by Priscilla K. Shontz, editor 

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/careers-in-library-and-information-services-9798216185772/  

Podcasts: A Way with Words, an upbeat and lively public radio show and podcast about language examined through culture, history, and family. https://waywordradio.org/ 

Code Sw!tch (while NPR is still a thing). It's the fearless conversations about race that you've been waiting for. https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510312/codeswitch 

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Dr. Cassidy Sugimoto

School Chair, Tom and Marie Patton Chair, Professor Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy Georgia Institute of Technology

Quote of the Podcast: 

Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Dr. Cassidy R. Sugimoto holds multiple roles at Georgia Tech. She is School Chair, the Tom and Marie Patton Chair, and Professor of the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School of Public Policy. Her research explores how knowledge is created, shared, and supported—with a strong focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion in science and academia. She holds three degrees from UNC Chapel Hill, including a Ph.D. in Information and Library Science. A recognized leader in her field, Dr. Sugimoto has earned multiple teaching, leadership, and service awards and is known for her thought leadership at the intersection of policy, research, and inclusion.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators. 

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Information dissemination
• Importance of Higher Education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

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Will Richardson

Founder

Future Serious School 

Quote of the Podcast: 

"The end of the world as we know it is not the end of the world, full stop." ~Dougald Hine

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Will is a lifelong educator who, after 22 years in the classroom, has worked with educators in over 25 countries to push their thinking about the purpose and practice of schooling in a time of deepening challenges and emerging opportunities for change. He is a parent, an author of six books, and the founder of Future Serious Schools. His recent manifesto "Confronting Education in a Time of Complexity, Chaos, and Collapse" is a provocation for a new "why" of schooling and the foundation for a seven-week workshop of the same title which is now entering its third cohort.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Tell us about Future Serious Schools
• Share the essence of your Manifesto
• Share what people will gain from participating in your next cohort
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts 

Website: https://futureserious.school/

Manifesto: https://futureserious.school/manifestoedu/

Books: Hospicing Modernity, Education in a Time Between Worlds, At Work in the Ruins, Pedagogies of Collapse. 

Podcasts: The Great Turning, The Great Simplification, Future Learning Design.

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Dr. Demetrus Liggins

Fayette County Public Schools

Superintendent

Quote of the Podcast: 

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit" -Aristotle

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Today’s guest is Dr. Demetrus Liggins, superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools since 2021. A former English and ESL teacher, Dr. Liggins has served in nearly every role in education—from classroom teacher to high school principal to area superintendent—across California and Texas. Before coming to Lexington, he led Greenville ISD near Dallas, where he transformed a struggling district into one with significantly improved academic and financial ratings, earning state recognition.

Bilingual and deeply committed to equity, Dr. Liggins launched innovative programs like a citywide literacy initiative, a dual-language track, a STEM academy, and an Early College High School. His leadership has earned him national accolades, including being named a Superintendent to Watch and Kentucky’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year. With advanced degrees in education and policy and a passion for student success, Dr. Liggins is widely respected for his results-driven leadership and deep investment in mentoring the next generation of educators.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators.

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Portrait of a Graduate and Deeper Learning
• Local Accountability
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?”

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

https://www.fcps.net/about/superintendent-s-office/strategic-plan/portrait-of-a-graduate

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

KY State Senator

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Reggie Thomas graduated from Bryan Station High School in 1971. He earned a bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College in 1975 and a Juris Doctor from Harvard University in 1978. His career experience includes working as an assistant professor at Kentucky State University.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• You are on the Senate Education Committee, What drew you to education?
• Role of Government in Education
• Changing role of education for our new economy
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Educator| Author |Creator

Quote of the Podcast: 

“Forward ever, backward never.” – Kwame Nkrumah

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

 Ayo Jones is an educator, instructional designer, and the author of Teaching with AI: The PEACE Framework. She’s all about helping teachers integrate AI into their classrooms to build the critical skills students need for the future. With years of experience working with students who have complex access needs, Ayo is passionate about making learning more engaging, accessible, and relevant for every student. Her goal? To help educators rethink what's possible and create classrooms that prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• AI in education and rethinking instructional pedagogy.
• AI as assistive tech for those with disabilities
• Changing role of education for our new economy
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/ website/ book shoutouts

Teaching with AI: The PEACE Framework

NoodleNook

 www.peaceframework.com/

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Adult Policy Partner

Kentucky Student Voice Team

Quote of the Podcast: 

“I believe in angels, something good in everything I see”

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Will Powers is a graduate of Occidental College, where he studied diplomacy and world affairs and graduated as an Obama Scholar. He has worked for the Brookings Institution, Blue Haven Initiative, and the House Foreign Affairs Committee advancing social impact through policy making. Will is currently the policy and public engagement partner for the Kentucky Student Voice Team helping lead the Rose Revival campaign and supporting high school students to facilitate a series of public hearings related to issues raised in KSVT's recently-filed legal complaint, Kentucky Student Voice Team v. The Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• KSVT Legislation
• Addressing skepticism about the KSVT litigation (learned pessimism about systematic reform)
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Books: The Places in Between by Rory Stewart

Mobilizing Citizens for Better Schools

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Head of Campus

The Winchendon School

 Quote of the Podcast: 

"Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it." 

--- Marian Wright Edelman, Former president and the Children's Defense Fund

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Kalimah Fergus Ayele is the Head of NYC Campus for The Winchendon School, an oasis in the heart of Manhattan where students are guided through real-world learning to connect with their passion through a unique city-wide field study program. Her experience in schools started as a Peace Corps Volunteer where she taught Chemistry in East Africa and over her 30 year career, she has taught in 5 countries. She earned her bachelor's degree in Chemistry at Stanford University and masters degrees at Teachers College Columbia University, including an Ed M in Organization Leadership through the Klingenstein program. A native of Brooklyn, NY, Kalimah Fergus Ayele has always been committed to building thriving, inclusive communities where participants experience a sense of belonging and have the opportunity to build the necessary tools to design and create a more equitable world.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• innovative schools and using design thinking techniques to "design for belonging" in school communities.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Shout out to "The Management Center" a training program that helps organization design and implement equitable management systems; 

"The Landscape Model for Learning"

"What School Could Be" 

for their commitment to moving the conversation about innovation in education forward.

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Founder and Lead Education Consultant 

Smith Education Consultants

Quote of the Podcast: 

We all do better, when we all do better - Senator Paul Wellstone

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Adam A. Smith is a first-generation college graduate who has dedicated his almost three-decade career to ensuring college access and success for all Americans. He served as the founding Director of the TRIO Upward Bound program at Rock Valley College and later as the college’s Dean of Students. He taught both undergraduate and graduate level courses at Judson University in Elgin, Illinois, and was appointed to serve as the City of Rockford’s (IL) “Education Czar” to former mayor Lawrence J. Morrissey. Adam worked at Metropolitan State University as Director of Multicultural, American Indian and Retention Services, The University of Alabama as Director of Undergraduate Academic Advising and Student Success and at The University of Akron as Assistant Vice President of Student Success. He also has undergraduate admissions experience from his time at The University of Tennessee. Smith currently works at the University of Kentucky as Executive Director for University Academic Advising and has a vibrant public speaking and educational consulting firm, Smith Education Associates, LLC and is the host of The Get Uncomfortable podcast and is represented by the Institute of Democratic Education & Culture, “SpeakOut”, the nation’s only social justice speaker agency. Adam has built successful coalitions and initiatives that have transformed high school graduation rates, college enrollment and success for students throughout the nation.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Higher education. 
• College students since the return for lock down, 
• Student success, student mental health and well-being, 
• The impact of anti-DEI legislation on student success and belonging
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

The Get Uncomfortable Podcast, Smith Education Associates, LLC,

SpeakOut - The Institute for Democratic Education and Culture

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Interventionist Specialist/MTSS Lead

Quote of the Podcast:  

Education is a passport to freedom and the means to unlock the globe.- Oprah Winfrey

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

Mariam Lee has been making an impact in education for the past 15 years. She has taught K-5 for 10 years in a title 1 school and made the switch during the 2020 pandemic into intervention. The past 5 years, her focus has been as a reading and math K-5 interventionist as well as MTSS Lead. She knew that she was called to teach, inspire, and attempt to close the academic and social and emotional learning gap even more so in both the all girls and all boys STEM schools.

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

●        30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education? 

●       What drew you to education? 

●       mental health of teachers/mentoring

●       What are the biggest challenges to you? 

●       What would you like decision-makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts 

 Abbott Elementary 

Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Quote of the Podcast:  

 "Show me your budget and I'll tell you what you value" Joe Biden, pre-VP 

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

Barbara Smith is a passionate educator who challenges the boundaries of "sameness" in schools. Smith's background includes over forty years in public, charter, independent and international schools. Barbara has started three schools and has been a teacher, principal, consultant, trustee, and teacher educator at OISE, McGill and the University of Saskatchewan teaching faculties and graduate schools. She has published many books through Rowman & Littlefield and Brill Publishers.

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

●        30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education? 

●       What drew you to education? 

●       students in responsible roles - 

●       and how such experiences can help shape positive school cultures

●       What are the biggest challenges to you? 

●       What would you like decision-makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts

Urgent Care for Schools: Situating Responsibility as an Engaging Way to Transform School Culture by Barbara Smith

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Jose Moreno
CEO
Neulight 

Quote of the Podcast: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” - Wayne Gretzky  

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

Jose Moreno graduated from Harvey Mudd College and began his tech career at Microsoft, working on services for over 500 million users. At Netflix, he contributed to features like "skip credits" and led the Account Sharing initiative, adding over 40 million new subscribers. As founder and CEO of Neulight, Jose now focuses on transforming education through technology. His company’s product, IntelliTier, leverages AI to empower educators to provide personalized student support, aiming to make a positive impact in education. 

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education? 
• What drew you to education? 
• - The transformative potential of AI in personalizing education 
  - Applying big tech insights to solve educational challenges 
  - Innovative approaches to student support systems 
  - Balancing technology integration with soft skills development 
• What are the biggest challenges to you? 
• What would you like decision-makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts 

Also, can you use this link for our website:
https://www.neulight.io/?utm_source=educationperspectives&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcasttour&utm_id=11 
 

Other relevant links are:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-neulight/ 
 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/Neulight 
 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559694274342 
 

https://www.instagram.com/neulight.io/ 

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Kristi Baird
Executive Director
Compass Community Schools 

Quote of the Podcast:  

"Each one of us can make a difference. Together we can make change." Barbara Mikulski

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Kristi Baird has more than 25 years of experience molding young minds in Memphis. She has remained a pillar in the local education community, serving in various roles throughout her career, including teacher, guidance counselor, vice principal, principal, assistant superintendent, superintendent, and executive director. She is now the founder and executive director of Compass Community Schools, a network of charter schools in Memphis, Tennessee. Prior to forming Compass Community Schools, Kristi held several positions within the Catholic Diocese of Memphis. She began her work in Catholic schools in the Jubilee Catholic Schools network, known as the Miracle in Memphis, where she was a teacher and then moved into leadership roles. She was serving as superintendent of Jubilee when then Bishop Martin Holly announced the closing of Jubilee. Kristi went on to found and lead Compass Community Schools, which opened to serve students displaced by the closing of Jubilee. Kristi holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Memphis and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Christian Brothers University. Kristi is a mother and educator and approaches her work in education from both perspectives.

 Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Compass's work to reduce chronic absenteeism across our network of six schools (reducing our rate from 33% in 22-23 school year to 20% in the 23-24 school year) 
• Compass Community Schools’ service learning model -Compass serves a high Multi Language Learners (MLL) population. About 68% of Compass students have a home language other than English.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Books I read this summer: The Way of the Shepherd and The Classroom Management Secret: and 45 Other Keys to a Well Behaved Class Currently Rereading: Walk the Walk Currently Reading: Good to Great and The Devil at His Elbow

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Kevin Dahill-Fuchel
Executive Director
Counseling In Schools  

Quote of the Podcast:   

Hope lies in dreams, in imagination, and in the courage of those who dare to make dreams into reality. – Jonas Salk  

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

A leader in school-based social work programming, Kevin has more than 30 years of experience in working with children, families and school staff. Kevin joined Counseling in Schools (CIS), in 1993 as a Counselor and advanced to become a Supervisor, Trainer & Manager. Through his 31-year career at CIS, Kevin has led the process to evolve CIS’ service reach beyond counseling services to include a multi-dimensional and strength-based menu of services that support an entire school community. As a result, he became the first Executive Director of Counseling In Schools succeeding the Founder, Cindy Jurow in 2012. In his current role, Kevin is committed to developing a team leadership model within the organization that embodies the non-oppressive, collaborative systems that are needed to effectively take on the complex challenges routinely faced in schools by children, families, teachers and administrators. Kevin’s outstanding work has been acknowledged through accolades including the Commitment to Hope Award, Massachusetts Commonwealth Award, the West Side Chamber of Commerce Award, and Hunter College’s Jacob Goldfiend Award. Prior to joining CIS, he worked at the Sojourner House Family Shelter in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Kevin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned his degree from the Hunter College School of Social Work. 

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

•  30, a 000 Ft. View – Why so we, as society invest in education? 
• What drew you to education? 
• School's as centers of healing 
• Defining types of crisis that impact schools, and levels of preparedness for each  
• NYC's Community Schools Initiative as critical education reform 
• What are the biggest challenges to you? 
• What would you like decision makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts 

Shawn Ginwright, author of Hope and Healing in Urban Education - member of the CIS Advisory Council 

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Tom Haggard 
VP Educate NKY 

Quote of the Podcast:  

"Fill your mind with truth, your heart with love and your life with service." 

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

From working with youth in Covington as a teen to his new position as vice president of EducateNKY, Tom Haggard has assumed increasing responsibility in collective impact, advocacy and community engagement. EducateNKY was launched by the OneNKY Alliance to address systemic change in education in Northern Kentucky, with an initial focus on communities with high socioeconomic needs. Recently, Haggard successfully led five community leader stakeholder groups to a consensus on key priorities in the education pipeline. Previously, Haggard served as director of the Kentucky Out-of-School Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness/advocacy organization focused on quality after-school and summer learning programs. He is a graduate of Leadership Northern Kentucky and a recipient of the Next Generation Leader Award in Education/Workforce, in addition to being recognized as a Forty Under 40 honoree. In 2020, Haggard was elected to the Covington Board of Education where he serves as chair.  

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

•  30, a 000 Ft. View – Why so we, as society invest in education? 
• What drew you to education? 
• Collective Impact  
• Community Engagement in Education 
• What are the biggest challenges to you? 
• What would you like decision makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts 

Abbott Elementary 

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Executive Director 

MoMath 

Quote of the Podcast:  

A lot things seem impossible…until you do them. 

Introduction of Guest BIO –  

Cindy Lawrence is the Executive Director and CEO of the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath). She began her career as a CPA before transitioning to education, where she developed curriculum and taught students globally. Lawrence has been instrumental in creating and directing a math program for gifted students and played a key role in establishing MoMath. Since becoming CEO in 2015, she has focused on changing public perceptions of math, enhancing math education, and overseeing museum operations. Under her leadership, MoMath has attracted over a million visitors and engaged audiences worldwide. Lawrence is also a sought-after speaker and consultant in math education. 

Interview 

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators 

• 30, a 000 Ft. View – Why so we, as society invest in education? 
• What drew you to education? 
• Everyone can enjoy math 
• MoMath Museum 
• What are the biggest challenges to you? 
• What would you like decision makers to know? 

Podcast/book shoutouts 

https://momath.org/

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

 Pam McGorry

C-SPAN's Education Program Senior Specialist

Zach Lowe

C-SPAN's Education Resource Specialist

Quotes of the Podcast: 

Pam: “The child's own instincts and powers furnish the material and give the starting point for all education.” John Dewey, philosopher and psychologist 

Zach: “If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you're going to have something special.” Jim Valvano, former NC State basketball coach

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Pam McGorry was born and raised in Queens, NY. She earned her B.S.Ed. and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Long Island University and then went on to receive a M.S.Ed at the university. After spending several years teaching in the classroom on Long Island, McGorry joined C-SPAN Television Network's Education Relations team in 2010 where she continues to contribute content to the website and connects with educators and students nationwide to share C-SPAN Classroom resources and programs as the Education Program Senior Specialist. McGorry is a member of the National Council for the Social Studies and The WICT Network. 

A native of Cortland, OH, Zach Lowe is a 2014 graduate of the University of Akron, having studied social studies education. Beginning his teaching career in Sumter, SC, Lowe was named a top-five finalist for South Carolina State Teacher of the Year in 2018, representing the state's 50,000+ public school educators. After spending six years in the classroom, Lowe served as his school's curriculum coach before assuming his current role as the Education Resource Specialist at C-SPAN. At C-SPAN, Lowe uses the network's video coverage of public affairs to design instructional materials for use in classrooms across the country. A National Board Certified Teacher, Lowe also holds an MEd in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina and a PhD in Global Leadership and Change from Tiffin University. Outside of his professional endeavors, Lowe is an avid runner, serves in multiple community-oriented roles in the D.C. area, and is happily married to his husband, Erick.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• StudentCam - https://www.studentcam.org/ 
• C-SPAN Classroom - https://www.c-span.org/classroom/
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Corey Mohn

Quote of the Podcast: 

"Be excellent, not perfect."

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Corey is the President and Executive Director of CAPS Network, empowering high school students to fast-forward into their future through real-world business projects and the development of professional skills. Prior to CAPS, Corey served as Director of Statewide Programs for the Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship. In July 2015, CAPS launched CAPS Network, a consortium of school programs committed to this model of profession-based education. CAPS Network has grown to include 114 affiliate programs, including over 180 school districts across 23 states and four countries.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Profession Based Learning
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

"The Network" podcast by CAPS Network - https://yourcapsnetwork.org/podcast/

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Dr. Kapono Ciotti 

Quote of the Podcast – 

 Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself. -J. Dewey

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Kapono Ciotti attributes his educational philosophy to his own schooling experience in a progressive, social-constructivist school during his early years in Honolulu, Hawaii. He taught in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Dakar, Senegal, for over a decade before moving into school leadership. Kapono has led schools in the United States and Egypt, where he put into practice the philosophy of "students making the world a better place," shifting school culture to impact-based education practice. His strong belief in education being an act of social justice drives his work. 

Kapono has worked internationally in educational change organizations, leading the work of Deeper Learning and place and culture-based pedagogy, and he is currently the Executive Director for What School Could Be. In these roles, he has trained teachers in over 100 schools and school districts over four continents, impacting hundreds of thousands of students. In addition, Kapono spent 15 years as National Faculty for the National Association of Independent Schools in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice, facilitating national and international learning experiences. As a curriculum writer, he has authored multiple curricula for federal and non-profit programs. His work has significantly contributed to the organizations What School Could Be, The Buck Institute, EdLeader21, The Pacific American Foundation, and many others. Kapono holds a Ph.D. in International Education Leadership from Northcentral University, a Masters degree in Social Change and Development from the University of Newcastle, and a Bachelors of Language and Culture from the Evergreen State College. He currently lives between Hawaii, Cairo, Egypt, and Dakar Senegal.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Let’s talk about the impact of What School Could Be and its approach to change America's education system
• Tell us about the book "The Landscape Model of Learning" which is an essential guide offers the landscape model and its three elements: understanding what students bring to the ecosystem, defining the horizon, and charting the pathway.
• I hear you are doing a survey – tell me more about it
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Landscape Model of Learning book, 

WSCB Distinguished School process

WSCB Podcast 

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Dr. Lyn Sharratt

Quote of the Podcast – 

Hope is NOT a strategy in Teaching

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Lyn Sharratt is a highly sought-after expert in the field of education. A distinguished practitioner, researcher, author, and presenter, she has dedicated her career to turning cutting-edge research into practical guidance for system and school leaders. With her extensive experience and expertise, she has developed a unique roadmap for education leaders to utilize ongoing assessment to inform instruction and drive equity at all levels of the education system. Lyn has a Social Work undergrad degree from the University of Waterloo; an Education degree from University of Western Ontario; a Masters Degree from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education and a Doctorate in Theory and Policy Studies from University of Toronto, Canada. Her work has been recognized nationally and internationally, and her insights and strategies have transformed countless classrooms, schools, districts, and even entire education systems. Her notable publications include Clarity: What Matters MOST in Learning, Teaching & Leading (Corwin, 2019); Putting Faces on The Data (10th Anniversary Edition, with Dr. Michael Fullan, Corwin, 2022); and is currently writing her seventh book with Dr. John Hattie (Corwin, 2025, in Press).

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• You host a podcast Sustaining System and School Improvement – what made you begin?
• How do you ensure System and School Improvement?
• Tell us about your perspectives on education Internationally?
• Tell me about the Clarity Learning Suite
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

CLARITY Learning Suite (CLS) 24/7 online Platform - PL for Teachers and Leaders

Sustaining System and School Improvement Podcast

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Tyler Murphy

Chair of the Fayette County Board of Education

Quote of the Podcast: 

"Education is not preparation for life, but life itself." - John Dewey

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Tyler Murphy serves as Chair of the Fayette County Board of Education. He is a National Board Certified Teacher at Boyle County High School, where he teaches AP U.S. Government, AP World History, and AP Human Geography. Murphy was first elected to the Board in 2018 and is the only current classroom educator on the Board. Murphy coaches Academic Team; serves on the Board of Directors for the National Education Association; and is active in advocacy advancing public education at various levels. He spends his summers as an Associate Campus Director with the Kentucky Governor's Scholars Program. Murphy graduated from Transylvania University in 2010 with a Bachelor's in Political Science and from Morehead State University with a Master of Arts in Teaching.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What inspired you to run for school board?
• How has your perspective evolved since taking on this role?
• Favorite memory in education?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Book--Democracy Awakening by Heather Cox Richardson

Podcast--A Way with Words

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Kiauna Browning Coleman

Quote of the Podcast: 

"Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed." Maria Montessori

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Kiauna Browning Coleman is an educator, coach, and innovator who believes in creating spaces that are safe, comfortable, and conducive to learning and growth in all aspects of life for all people no matter their age. She is a mom of three kids and currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education Instruction & Administration at the University of Kentucky focusing on how systems and structures kill innovation in education. She has experience as a mentor to new and experience teachers and has worked in Fayette County Public Schools since 2012 as a teacher. She is currently also working as a district Deeper Learning Initiative Coach helping to help create change in educational practices in FCPS. She has helped design curriculum frameworks, managed and trained teams of educators, and developed professional development programs. She is also a business owner for Oh, Look... Cookies! which was founded in 2022. In addition to managing the social media presence and operations, she also leads a team of youth entrepreneurs "The Kentucky Kids".

 Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Teacher Agency
• Systems and Structures
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Claudett Edie

Library Media Specialist, Leestown Middle School

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Claudett Edie, a former High School English and Science teacher, is not just an educator, but a passionate advocate for Project-Based Learning (PBL). With over a decade of experience in PBL, she brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role as a Leestown Middle School Library Media Specialist and a member of Fayette County School's Deeper Learning Team. Her primary focus is to support PBL projects and experiences for the students of Leestown Middle, as well as team-teaching, supporting, and coaching teachers as they design PBL experiences in their classrooms. 

Claudett's commitment to deeper learning and PBL is not just a belief but a proven strategy for empowering students. She has seen firsthand how PBL can transform students, equipping them with critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Her approach to creating engaging learning experiences that connect classroom content to real-world issues has not only fostered equity and access to high-quality education for all students but has also made a significant impact on the Leestown Middle School community. Claudett's innovative contributions have not gone unnoticed. Her achievements include being a 2024 PBL Champion Nominee, winning the 2023 PBLWorksKY Innovator Contest, and being Leestown Middle School's 2023 Teacher of the Year. Recently, she accepted a part-time position as a PBLworks National Faculty member, where she will facilitate PBL 101 workshops for educators. 

As a dynamic presenter, Claudett not only facilitates professional development sessions on PBL classroom integration at local, district, and state-wide conferences but also ignites a spark of innovation in every participant. Her master’s degree in Instructional Leadership and Middle School Science and English Education is a testament to her dedication to empowering educators through innovative learning methodologies, leaving a lasting impact on the education landscape.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Shoutouts to CKEC Deeper Learning Amanda Burrows, Erin McIver, Holly Lawrence, and Heather Brown 

PBLWorks workshops provided by the KDE Professional Development Grant 

Current Podcast - The Balance, by Dr. Catlin Tucker 

Books that make me a better teacher: Dive Into Deep Learning: Tools for Engagement First Edition by Joanne Quinn, Joanne J. McEachen, & 3 more 

The Handbook for the New Art and Science of Teaching (Your Guide to the Marzano Framework for Competency-Based Education and Teaching Methods) 

Making Thinking Visible: How to Promote Engagement, Understanding, and Independence for All Learners 1st Edition 

PBL Handbook for Middle & High School by PBLWorks 

The Power of Making Thinking Visible: Practices to Engage and Empower All Learners 

Teaching for Deeper Learning: Tools to Engage Students in Meaning Making 

The Shift to Student-Led: Reimagining Classroom Workflows with UDL and Blended Learning 

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

 Alicia Sells

CEO, We Lead CS, Inc

Quote of the Podcast – 

"Nothing is impossible. The word itself says I'm possible" - Audrey Hepburn

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Alicia Sells is the CEO of We Lead CS, Inc. She worked with the Kentucky General Assembly to establish the We Lead CS Virtual Computer Science Career Academy to increase Kentucky’s competitiveness in the tech economy and significantly expand Kentucky’s capacity to prepare high school students for the tech workforce. We Lead CS offers Kentucky high school students a jumpstart on computer science degrees and opportunity to prepare for the workforce with some of America’s leading tech employers. In 2014, Alicia founded iLEAD Academy - Kentucky's first regional high school serving students from five rural counties. iLEAD prepares students for careers in America’s highest demand STEM jobs. More than 75% of iLEAD’s graduates have earned an associate degree in high school and headed out into the world with industry certifications and the skills needed to succeed in the workplace. Alicia is a 36-year public policy veteran. She has served as the Vice President of Government Relations at the University of Louisville and the lead lobbyist for the Kentucky School Boards Association. She was the Press Secretary and Communications Director for the Mayor in Louisville, Kentucky. She is an alum of Stanford University's Design Thinking for Social Systems Fellowship Program and a proud graduate of Western Kentucky University.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Why Kentucky should prepare students for the tech workforce.
• How virtual learning can increase access to Career and Technical Education and employers in students' areas of interest.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Robert Earl Gunn

Metro United Way

Quotes of the Podcast – 

1. Until lions have historians, hunters will never cease to be heroes. 

2. I'd rather be hated for who I am than loved for who I am not.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Robert Earl Gunn Jr. was born in South Bend, Indiana and has served the community for the past two decades. He is married to Dr. Lacey Gunn and has two wonderful children. Robert graduated college from Earlham College and joined Teach for America in 2002 where he began his teaching career in St. Louis, Missouri. During his time in education, he served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and founding principal of the W.E.B. DuBois Academy in Louisville, KY. Currently, he serves as Chief Equity and Impact Officer at Metro United Way where he leads transformative work across the greater Louisville region. In his new role, he works to provide solutions to root cause challenges that have led to disparate outcomes that negatively impact members of our community. The goal is to ensure our community has thriving kids, strong households, and an equitable community.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• Tell us about your education journey
• What drew you to moving to Metro United Way?
• As you moved from education to non-profit, how has your perspective changed on what we need to provide students?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Follow the work of Metro United Way (locally) and United Way's across the country and worldwide for ways to Give, Volunteer, and Advocate.

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Luisa Sanchez

KSVT – Kentucky Student Voice Team

Quotes of the Podcast – 

"Let us think of education as the means of developing our greatest abilities, because in each of us there is a private hope and dream which, fulfilled, can be translated into benefit for everyone and greater strength for our Nation.” -JFK 1961

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Luisa Sanchez is a current Sophomore at Boyle County High School and a member of the Kentucky Student Voice Team.  She has been active in the Rose Campaign since it began in hopes of advancing educational justice efforts in our commonwealth.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to the KSVT?
• Rose Revival Campaign
• Harvard Presentation
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

KSVT Podcast: Get Schooled https://www.ksvt.org/podcast 

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Dr. Joe Lockavitch

Founder, President, Author Failure Free Reading 

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

With a remarkable background as a former teacher, school psychologist, professor, and special education director, Dr. Joe Lockavitch is a true pioneer in the field of literacy education. He’s not just an educator; he’s the author and developer of groundbreaking programs like The Failure Free Reading Program, Joseph’s Readers Talking Software for Non-Readers, and Verbal Master-An Accelerated Vocabulary Program.

Dr. Joe’s passion for empowering students with chronic reading challenges has led him to train countless teachers, parents, and administrators nationwide. His innovative approach has been featured on PBS NewsHour and national radio shows, and he’s been recognized in Who’s Who in American Education.

 Join us as we explore Dr. Joe’s journey, insights, and his unwavering belief that changing instructional approaches can unlock the hidden reading potential in every student.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• Tell us about your solutions for reading success
• Options for reading success
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

https://failurefreereadingonline.com/

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Lauren Hill

ELA Teacher 

Leestown Middle School

CEPS Facilitator

Quotes of the Podcast – 

“All learning is worthwhile” - Anonymous

“Do one thing every day that scares you.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Lauren Hill (NBCT): Lauren (she/her) teaches middle school ELA at Leestown Middle School in Lexington, KY. She has also taught high school and in a correctional setting, served as an instructional coach, and worked as the Teacher Leadership Coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Education. Lauren directs Classroom Teachers Enacting Positive Solutions (CTEPS), which provides coaching and action research-based learning to emerging teacher leaders in Kentucky. She also serves as Associate Director of the University of Kentucky - Jewish Heritage Fund Holocaust Initiative, which supports Kentucky teachers in meeting the mandate for effective Holocaust education. Lauren graduated from Barnard College with a BA in History, Vanderbilt University with an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Supervision, and The University of Kentucky with a Rank 1 in English Education. Lauren focuses on elevating teachers as experts and leaders who facilitate deeper learning for their students.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Teacher leadership, deeper learning, action research, school re-design, the teaching profession
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Teaching 2030: What We Must Do for Our Students and Our Public Schools--Now and in the Future - Barnett Berry and the crew

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Rachel Belin

Managing Partner 

Kentucky Student Voice Team

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Democracy must be learned by each generation.” This is an adaptation of a John Dewey quote by Earle T. Hawkins, the founder of the Maryland Youth and Government program.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Rachel Burg Belin (she/her) is the Managing Partner and, with young people, a co-founder of the Kentucky Student Voice Team. She has decades of experience supporting young people as research, policy, and storytelling partners, acting by turns as a social studies teacher, media literacy nonprofit innovator, education policy aide, development consultant, and commercial radio news director. In the course of this work, she has spearheaded nine different ventures specifically to amplify and elevate the voices of young people as full partners in civic life. With young people as collaborators, she has been the recipient of the Citizen's and Scholars Civic Spring Award, the Kentucky Nonprofit Network Excellence in Public Policy Award, the Pathway 2 Tomorrow Breakthrough in Education Innovation Award, and a George Foster Peabody Award. Rachel holds a BA from Harvard University and an MAT from the University of Rochester.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about What we mean by meaningful student voice; Schools as engines for democracy; the value of out-of-school time in supporting young people to do democracy; students as research, policy, and storytelling partners; the benefits and pitfalls of youth and adult power sharing and more!
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Best youth podcast: The Bell's "Missing Voices" series, produced by students in NYC 

Especially Topical Read: "High Conflict" by Amanda Ripley 

Oddly amazing show: "Wrestlers" on Netflix

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Amanda Burrows

Deeper Learning Director, CKEC

Quote of the Podcast – 

Our job, as teachers, is not to "prepare" kids for something; our job is to help kids learn to prepare themselves for anything. - AJ Juliani

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Amanda Burrows is the Deeper Learning Director at Central Kentucky Educational Cooperative, where she leads and supports more than twenty school districts in their deeper learning initiatives. Burrows has been an educator since 2005, serving as a classroom teacher, college and career coach, educational consultant, and assistant principal. Burrows received her Bachelor of Arts in English Teaching and Master of Arts in Education from Eastern Kentucky University. She earned her Education Specialist Degree and principal certification from the University of Kentucky. In 2011, Burrows was selected as Elkhorn Crossing School’s first ever teacher of the year and was recognized as the High School Teacher of the Year for Scott County Schools. Additionally, she was a recipient of the Campbellsville Excellence in Teaching Award and the University of Kentucky Teacher Who Made a Difference Award. Burrows is passionate about transformational education, innovative instructional models, engaging teaching strategies, and personalized systems of deeper learning. She is an avid supporter of students and the continuous growth and professional learning of educators in Kentucky.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us About the Deeper Learning Initiative
• Explain what the Co-Ops are and what they offer
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

I would love for people to be able to check out our CKEC Deeper Learning Google Site. There are a lot of free resources there. bit.ly/CKECDL

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Greg Schloemer

Threat Intelligence Analyst at Microsoft  
Vice-President/Co-Founder of KC7 Foundation

Quote of the Podcast – 

"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." - Benjamin Franklin

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Greg is a threat intelligence analyst at Microsoft who focuses on tracking North Korean state-sponsored cyber threat actors. Greg also co-founded and is the Vice President of the KC7 Foundation, a cybersecurity education nonprofit whose mission is to empower a more diverse cybersecurity workforce. Greg is passionate about creating opportunities in cyber and tech for students in underserved communities, like those in Rural Appalachia.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education side of training in Cyber?
• What do you love about what you do?
• KC7
• gamification in education
• making STEM education more accessible/approachable
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

I'll shout out to everyone to go play KC7 - even if you "aren't technical" or have no interest in cyber, you may surprise yourself with how fun it can be :)

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Nema Brewer
Organizer
Accidental Activist

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”- James Baldwin 

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

A working mom and wife, Nema became an accidental activist for public education in 2017 and hasn’t shut up since 

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Teacher & public school staff retention
• United We Stand 120
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Barnett Berry

Senior Advisor, What School Could Be
Senior Research Fellow, Learning Policy Institute

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Getting to scale with deeper, student-led learning requires teachers who “increasingly to think of themselves as operating in a web of professional relations that influence their daily decisions, rather than as solo practitioners.”  Dick Elmore (1996)

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Barnett Berry currently serves as a Senior Research Fellow at the Learning Policy Institute and a Senior Advisor for What School Could Be while also supporting efforts to ignite student-led learning. He especially supports the empowerment of the teaching profession required for it. Barnett’s work with the National Commission on Teaching and America's Future led to his founding of the Center for Teaching Quality (CTQ) in 2000, and for 19 years, the nonprofit focused on igniting a bold brand of teacher leadership essential for an effective and equitable system of public education. His two books, TEACHING 2030 and Teacherpreneurs: Innovative Teachers Who Lead But Don't Leave, frame a bold vision for the profession's future. In 2021, Barnett was honored by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards with the James A. Kelly Award for Advancing Accomplished Teaching. He currently serves on several advisory boards dedicated to transforming education systems, including the University of Kansas’ Center for Reimagining Education, the Digital Promise Global Cities Education Network, and Next Education Workforce Initiative of Arizona State University.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about Why schools have be do difficult to change; and how they can do so now! 
• Teacher roles: When it comes to school "reform" teachers have never been the problem; they have always been the solution.
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

TEACHING 2030

 Teacherpreneurs: Innovative Teachers Who Lead But Don't Leave

Learning Policy Institute for applying science of learning and development to school design 

Ted Dintersmith and Kapono Ciotti for advancing teacher-led innovation for student-led learning; Carole Basile and Brent Madden of ASU and their growing efforts to redesign the job of the teacher.

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Adam Watson
Deeper Learning Design Specialist, OVEC

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Follow your bliss.” -- Joseph Campbell

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

ADAM WATSON (@watsonedtech) is a Kentucky educator with a passion for edtech. Starting as an English teacher in 2005, he was named Teacher of the Year at South Oldham High School in 2009 and became National Board Certified in 2013. Adam's journey into educational technology began with a student podcast project, gaining recognition in Kentucky Teacher and other publications.

 In 2014, his "Shakespeare and Star Wars" unit garnered attention, featuring a Skype Q&A with a best-selling author and a mention in Star Wars Insider. Adam later became Shelby County Public School’s first Technology Integration Coach, contributing to the district's 1:1 initiative and pioneering the Profile of a Graduate.

Among his achievements, Adam developed a digital citizenship curriculum featured in a 2019 ISTE book. Named the 2018-2019 Outstanding Leader of the Year by the Kentucky Society for Technology in Education, Adam is a sought-after speaker at national conferences. He shares insights through his blog "Edtech Elixirs" and YouTube channel, and currently serves as a Deeper Learning Design Specialist for the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about Game Based Learning
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Books: Play (Stuart Brown)

Running with Robots (Greg Toppo and Jim Tracy)

Adam’s You Tube Channel

Podcasts: Teachers in the Dungeon. 

Websites: Kentucky Educators for Role Playing Games (kyedrpg.com)

Edtech Elixirs (watsonedtech.blogspot.com)

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Gregg Behr

Executive Director, The Grable Foundation
Chair, Remake Learning
Co-Author, When You Wonder, You're Learning

Quote of the Podcast – 

"Everyone longs to be loved. And the greatest thing we can do is to let people know that they are loved and capable of loving.” Fred Rogers

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Gregg Behr, executive director of The Grable Foundation, is a father and children’s advocate whose work is inspired by the legacy of his hero, Fred Rogers. For more than a decade, he has helped to lead Remake Learning—a network of educators, scientists, artists, and makers he founded in 2007—to international renown. Formed in Rogers’ real-life neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Remake Learning has turned heads everywhere from Forbes to the World Economic Forum for its efforts to ignite children’s curiosity, encourage creativity, and foster justice and belonging in schools, libraries, museums, and more.

In 2016, President Obama recognized Gregg as a Champion of Change for his efforts to advance making and learning; in 2015, he was recognized as one of America’s Top 30 Technologists, Transformers, and Trailblazers by the Center for Digital Education; and in 2014, Gregg accepted the Tribeca Disruptive Innovation Award on behalf of Remake Learning and Kidsburgh.org. Recognized for his deep and determined commitment to his hometown, Allegheny County once declared “Gregg Behr Day” in celebration of his advocacy for kids, their educators, and their families. He is Co-Author of the book When You Wonder, You're Learning.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

•  30,000 Ft. View – Why so we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about The Grable Foundation
• Tell us about Remake Education

·       Tell us about your book:  When You Wonder, You're Learning

• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education?
• What are the biggest challenges to you?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

• Book – When You Wonder, You’re Learning: Mister Rogers’ Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids 

• Remake Learning 

• Remake Learning Days 

• Podcast – Remaking Tomorrow

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Quote of the Podcast – 

“To find what one is fitted to do and secure the opportunity to do it is the key to happiness”. John Dewey

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Dr. Joseph L. Goins’s career began as a vocational educator in Tennessee, where he had the opportunity to develop the foundational skills program for learners with the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) System.  He was nominated for “Teacher of the Year” within the TBR system in 1995 and helped develop the first occupational profiles for the work-ready credential for 26 Technical and 14 Community Colleges.  

For much of Joseph’s 30+ year career, he has focused on education and custom solutions in the ED TECH industry.  His career has brought him a deep understanding of integrating technology into the classroom through resources that promote student achievement, teacher effectiveness, and leadership strategies for administrators. He has led sales, marketing, and professional development efforts in all US and international markets. 

Dr. Goins is the CEO of an action-based research company, NS4ed, which works closely with policy leaders, companies, schools, teachers, and educators alike to understand applying best practices and research into practice. NS4ed is committed to excellence in education, research, equity, and inclusion because Joseph practices and lives by those same principles. This is also evident in that NS4ed is devoted to giving back to the communities it serves. Joseph works with schools across the country, helping them identify the best solution that fits their culture, region, needs, and, ultimately, valuable solutions that allow learners to be successful.  NS4ed developed the Pathway2Careers model that embodies the Career-Connected Learning approach.

Podcast/book shoutouts

Savage Inequalities

Experience and Education

Foxfire Experience

Five Miles Away

Allure of Order

Unreasonable Hospitality

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Amy Breeding McVey

Vice President Improvement Services, Cognia, Inc.

Quote of the Podcast – 

"Learning and growth have no finish line" - John Maxwell

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Amy McVey currently serves as Vice President of Improvement Services with Cognia, a nonprofit supporting institutions, teachers, leaders, and learners in all areas of continuous school improvement and professional learning across the globe. A 35-year veteran in education, Amy has experience as a primary and intermediate teacher, curriculum coach, and principal. Before joining Cognia, she was the principal of Veterans Park Elementary, an NCLB Blue Ribbon School, and Dixie Elementary School, both in Lexington, Kentucky. She also served on and chaired the AdvancED/SACS CASI Kentucky Council, as well as participated as a voting member on the AdvancED National Accreditation Commission. Amy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education from Eastern Kentucky University, a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Georgetown College, and a School Leadership Certification from the University of Kentucky. As a lifelong learner, she is currently a student in the Education Systems Improvement Doctoral Program at the University of South Carolina. With her work at Cognia, Amy now gets the privilege of supporting teachers and educational leaders with strategic thinking and planning, leadership development, student engagement, and other professional learning opportunities.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• Tell us about your education journey?
• How would you like to see school change?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your time in school?
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

The Marshall Memo - https://marshallmemo.com/ A great way for school leaders and educators to keep up with the current research

I don't even know where to start with books. Reading is one of my favorite things to do! My goal is to read 75 books this year, and I finished number 73 on Saturday (October 28), so I think I will make it! You can follow my reading on Instagram @abmlikesthis I usually have at least two books going at the same time... one audio and at least one 'real' book... one just for fun and one for learning. 

So for this list I will stick with some of my favorite non-fiction reads: 

Developing the Leader Within You - By John Maxwell 

The Four Agreements - By Peter Coyote 

The Alchemist - By Paulo Coelho 

Make Your Bed - By Admiral William H. McRaven 

The Betrayal Of Anne Frank - By Rosemary Sullivan 

Boone - By Robert Morgan 

Upstream - By Dan Heath 

The Power of Moments - By Chip Heath & Dan Heath 

Good to Great - By Jim Collins 

If You Don't Feed the Teachers They Eat the Students! Guide to Success for Administrators and Teachers - By Neila A. Conners 

The Coaching Habit Say Less, Ask More, & Change the Way You Lead Forever - By Michael Bungay Stanier

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Justin Reich
Associate Professor at MIT
Author: Iterate 

Quote of the Podcast – 

For 20 years, I’ve worked in schools on all kinds of projects: transforming curriculum, integrating technology, re-engaging students, and making school meaningful and relevant to young people and families. Whatever you are working on, every successful school improvement effort that I’ve been a part of has one thing in common: they all improve one step at a time.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Justin is an associate professor of digital media in the Comparative Media Studies/Writing department at MIT and the director of the Teaching Systems Lab. He is the author of Iterate: The Secret to Innovation in Schools and Failure to Disrupt: Why Technology Alone Can’t Transform Education, and he is the host of the TeachLab Podcast. He earned his doctorate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and was the Richard L. Menschel HarvardX Research Fellow. He is a past Fellow at the Berkman-Klein Center for Internet and Society. His writings have been published in Science, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Washington Post, The Atlantic, and other scholarly journals and public venues. He started his career as a high school history teacher, and coach of wrestling and outdoor adventure activities. Follow Justin on Twitter or Google Scholar.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• Tell us about your education journey?
• How would you like to see school change?
• Iterate: The Secret to Innovation in Schools
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your time in school?
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Iterate: The Secret to Innovation in Schools

Failure to Disrupt: Why Technology Alone Can’t Transform Education

TeachLab Podcast

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

 Truc Nguyen

Founder Possibility Productions

FCPS Dept of Innovation Intern

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Nothing lasts” I made up this quote and I love it because it is that grey area between optimism and pessimism.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Truc was born in Vietnam and lived in Texas until 2018. She is currently a senior at Tates Creek High School going through the Opportunity Middle College program. She loves to write and is planning to major in business. She is Founder and Executive Producer of Possibility Productions and is currently an intern at the Fayette County Public Schools Office of Innovation. Her dream is to eventually write a screenplay that makes it to the screen.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• Tell us about your education journey?
• How would you like to see school change?
• Possibility Productions
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your time in school?
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face as a student?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Instagram and YouTube @possibilityproductions2023

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Allison Slone

Special Education Teacher

Administrator of Kentucky Teachers In the Know

Quote of the Podcast – 

“I’d rather scream! Silence is a crying shame.”

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Alliso Slone has been a special education teacher since January of 1999 in the Rowan County School System. She is also the administrator and founder of Kentucky Teachers In The Know and KYREADS (provides professional learning to teachers about dyslexia). She was the first active teacher in Kentucky to ever serve on The Kentucky Board of Education as an ex Officio non-voting member. I am married to Jason Slone (23 years) with two children, Jayden (21) and Will (16).

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• The retention and recruitment of teachers, 
• Teacher leadership from the classroom
• Advocacy, dyslexia, celebrating people’s accomplishments.
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Kentucky Teachers in the Know

My friends and fellow teachers have a Facebook group where they share major discounts on products for the home and classroom. It’s called “Home and School Online Deals.” 

I’d also like to give a shout-out to Commissioner Jason Glass whose last day is this week. I was part of the Board that hired Dr. Glass. I was a strong advocate for him and he has not disappointed. I appreciate that he was willing to say the hard things but the right things even knowing it would ultimately cost him his job. That’s integrity at its finest and I am honored to have splayed a small part in his time and work in Kentucky. He did the right things for our children.

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Dr. Laurel Martin
President
Junior Achievement

Quote of the Podcast – 

   “Believe in your heart that you are meant to live a life full of passion, purpose, magic, and miracles.”

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Laurel Raimondo Martin serves as the President of Junior Achievement and has been in that role since 2020.  She has worked in the higher education and non-profit sector for 29 years. Prior to joining Junior Achievement, she served as the Associate Vice President for Advancement at Bluegrass Community and Technical College and as Executive Director of the BCTC Foundation in Lexington, Kentucky.  Laurel earned her BS in Home Economics from the University of Kentucky, her MEd in Counselor Education from the University of Iowa and her PhD in Leadership, Organization, and Policy from Vanderbilt University.  Laurel also has ten years of experience as an adjunct professor, having taught graduate and undergraduate courses on Organizational Leadership, Business & Organizational Communication, Strategic Planning for Managers, Organizational Management, Group & Organizational Behavior, and Organizational Ethics.  Laurel is a past president of the Lexington Children’s Theatre and the Junior League of Lexington, she is a past chair of the Junior League Horse Show, and is currently a member of the Bluegrass Tomorrow Board of Directors, Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, and was appointed to the Kentucky Financial Empowerment Commission.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?

·       The power of education to change lives for the individual, their families, and the larger community. 

·       The importance of challenging ourselves to try things that seem scary, or hard or we may not succeed in the same way we challenge our students.

·       Managing organizational culture in education.

• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

o   Courage Goes to Work by Bill Treasurer 

o   Reframing Organizations by Lee Bowman and Terry Deal

o   Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Marcey Ansley
Executive Director 
The Hearing and Speech Center

Quote of the Podcast –
Find out who you are and do it on purpose. -Dolly Parton

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Marcey Ansley is nearing her 13th year as the Executive Director at The Hearing & Speech Center. In addition to this role, she has worked in nonprofit leadership for nearly 30 years at local, regional and national organizations like, Arbor Youth Services, the American Red Cross, the Alzheimer’s Association and Hospice of the Bluegrass. Marcey and Erik, her husband of 26 years, are both transplants to Lexington, Kentucky, she is originally from Warren, Ohio. Marcey’s most important role is being the parent of a child (now young adult) with hearing loss, Alexander Ansley. He is her daily inspiration, as he is the poster-child for early intervention! She is an active volunteer within the Episcopal church community; she is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Lexington and was the President in 2011; she has volunteered with many local organizations and school-based groups and is currently a member of the AG Bell Association, the treasurer of the National Association of Hearing & Speech Centers and she is on the board of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Bluegrass.

Overview
In this episode, we'll be discussing the incredible changes that have taken place in Kentucky's education system, specifically in the field of speech therapy and language acquisition for children with hearing loss. Marcey will walk us through the challenges of early education, shed light on the importance of investing in quality childcare, and share heartwarming stories of how her organization has made a significant impact on children's lives.

Join us as Marcey Ansley opens up about her personal journey as a parent, her dedication to early intervention, and the vital work being done at the Hearing and Speech Center. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to gain new perspectives on education.

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Services offered at HSC
• Early education/intervention
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Hearing and Speech Center’s Online Hearing Test https://hscky.org/online-hearing-test/

Hearing and Speech Center

Podcast/book shoutouts

Joan Garry's Nonprofits are Messy

Hidden Brain 

Sean Croxton's The Quote of the Day

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

[00:05:16] Education professional wears multiple hats, advocates for teacher leadership, and supports workforce development.

[00:08:38] Exciting projects in Eastern Kentucky workforce development.

[00:12:22] Support for adult learners, career pathways, credentials, community college programs, barrier removal, education for all ages.

[00:15:21] Seeking novelty and leveraging classroom skills.

[00:21:02] Engaging locals for recruitment and support. Community-driven approach.

[00:23:50] Exhausting for students and teachers, constantly changing.

[00:27:04] State education agency: mandate, capacity, reform. Accountability system changes can create chaos.

[00:30:03] Creating barriers or opportunities: a decision maker's role.

[00:32:41] Thank you for listening. Share your thoughts.

Quote of the Podcast – 

“If one person calls you a horse’s ass, you can tell them to kiss yours. If ten people call you a horse’s ass, you had better buy a saddle.” Brian Bishop 

Podcast/book shoutouts

·       The Tao of Rick Rubin Ezra Klein podcast from February of 2023

·       The Grid by Gretchen Bakke

·       The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

·       Ted Lasso - all of the characters have trauma

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

[00:03:35] Preschool teacher turned kindergarten para educator turned writing coach turned 21st Century Coordinator, now supports non-title one elementary schools.

[00:07:14] Partnerships, cohorts, and reduced tuition for advancement.

[00:10:46] Barbering event brings joy and connections.

[00:15:56] Fayette County working on equitable access.

[00:18:48] Bilingual ambassadors break language barriers and offer assistance.

[00:20:27] Legislators must address education barriers and transportation.

[00:23:21] Education politics mean parents do care deeply.

[00:26:50] Importance of clear, constant communication at the district level.

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"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart." - Nelson Mandela

Podcast/book shoutouts

The Lexington Podcast with Erica Friis (A former colleague and education, sharing knowledge!)

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

My life mantra: Just assume everyone is doing the very best they can, including you.

Podcast/book shoutouts

Beyond the Bakesale
Powerful Partnerships, Mapp and Henderson

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions 

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

[00:05:11] Restructuring education to provide meaningful experiences for students.

[00:19:39] Community leaders, workers, families, students, teachers, farmers discuss important skills for success – perseverance, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking. These experiences are often found outside of school, creating an opportunity gap.

[00:21:40] Exploring new ways of teaching and learning.

[00:36:30] High stakes accountability widens achievement gaps.

[00:41:03] Big boat stuck in canal, like education.

[00:42:57] Listen, share, subscribe, and engage with us.

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Haneen Abu Zaghrit

Social Worker

Tates Creek High School

Quote of the Podcast – 

"So, surely with hardship comes ease." 

On this episode of Education Perspectives, we speak with Haneen Abu Zaghrit, a social worker from Tates Creek High School. She believes that it's important for high school students to learn how to advocate for themselves before leaving high school, as they will need to find their own structure once they leave. The pandemic has significantly impacted mental health, therefore, some social workers are now focusing more on mental health. The speaker also wants to create an event called Adulting 101 that teaches juniors and seniors how to manage finances and budget effectively. The event would be especially helpful for students who may not have access to this information at home. The speaker reflects on how emotional it can be to say goodbye to graduating seniors, and notes the challenges that come with parents blaming schools for their child's actions. All in all, teaching students how to advocate for themselves is crucial for real-life situations, and social workers play a critical role in helping students succeed emotionally and academically.

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Hello! My name is Haneen Abu Zaghrit, this is my first year as a School Social Worker. I am located at Tates Creek High School, which also is the school that I once called home as a student. I actually realized I wanted to be a Social Worker while I was a junior in high school, not realizing that in about 7 years, I would become the Social Worker at the very same school. I am a first-generation college student that grew up with immigrant parents that raised me with two different cultures, Arab and American culture. Which caused a lot of confusion, especially with mental health.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Student to Leader – Who looks like me
• Mental Health
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

I am reading now the book called "A Gentle Reminder" by Bianca Sparacino. I have not finished it yet but it was highly recommended by many people, for people that just need a reminder that life is hard but you can grow from it and be okay.

00:02:54 From social work to education: helping everyone.
00:04:54 Social worker does daily check-ins with students.
00:09:20 Representation lacking in education, mental health awareness.
00:13:58 Pandemic changed life for students and adults.
00:17:23 Teacher cherishes memories of students' interactions.
00:21:04 Biggest challenges: getting families on board, trauma, burnout.
00:25:06 Parents and students should both advocate themselves.
00:27:52 High school should teach advocacy, independence earlier.
00:31:30 "Event teaches life skills to students, immigrants benefit."
00:34:05 Thanks for listening, share thoughts on Facebook. 

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Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Dr. Landon Mascareñaz  & Dr. Doannie Tran
The Open System Institute 

Quotes of the Podcast – 

"Fortune favors the bold"

"We can succeed only by concert. It is not "can any of us imagine better?" but, "can we all do better?" The dogmas of the quiet past, are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew, and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country." - Abraham Lincoln

On this episode of Education Perspectives, host Liza Holland interviews Dr. Landon Mascareñaz and Dr. Doannie Tran, co-founders of the Open Systems Institute. They discuss their mission to create more responsive and open education systems that involve communities, and center democracy, family engagement, and student input. They share personal stories of their own journeys in education and the transformative power it holds. The guests also delve into the principles of open system behavior and leadership, providing practical techniques and case studies from their experiences in the field. We learn about their work in Kentucky where they emphasize the importance of diverse perspectives in creating an inclusive council for education reform. Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of the urgency to prioritize openness and co-creation in education and beyond.

Introduction of Guests – 

Dr. Landon Mascareñaz 

Landon is an educator, writer, and democracy builder. As co-founder of the Open Systems Institute, he partners with leaders around the country to encourage an emerging discipline for openers everywhere. He is a senior partner at the Colorado Education Initiative (CEI) where he is responsible for community-driven economic development through breakthrough partnerships in the Homegrown Talent Initiative, working in sixty rural districts across eight regions of the state. At CEI he helped assemble the Sin Fronteras Education Partnership, a coalition of local, regional, and national organizations co-creating family partnership strategies for New Mexico communities, and he supported the launch of Colorado’s Statewide Family Engagement Center. The Open System will be published by Harvard Education Press this June.

Dr. Doannie Tran

Dr. Doannie Tran is the Partner for Liberatory Co-Creation at the Center for Innovation in Education. He leads and supports processes for bringing educator, family, community and student voice into the creation of more equitable and liberatory systems, especially around assessment and accountability. Prior joining CIE, Doannie led the Innovative Programs Division at Fulton County Schools and the Academics and Professional Learning Department in Boston Public Schools. He has led innovative school design processes, co-creation of equitable instructional frameworks, implementation of district-wide math and literacy curriculum, expansion of early childhood access, and served on two successful teacher contract negotiations teams. His primary work currently focuses on community-driven assessment and accountability redesign in Kentucky and the scaling of deeper learning in Georgia. He is also the co-founder of the Open Systems Institute, supporting school systems to be more open and responsive to the communities in which they are embedded.

Interview

[00:00:02] Podcast explores education from diverse perspectives.
[00:04:34] Budgets reflect our values, education builds democracy.
[00:06:27] Family values education, became teacher, community-focused educator.
[00:13:10

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Kathy Theis

School Counselor

Clays Mill Elementary

Poem of the Podcast – 

"When you get what you want in your struggle for self, and the world makes you king for a day, just go to the mirror and look at yourself, and see what that man has to say. For it isn't your father or mother or wife, whose judgment upon you must pass. The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life is the one staring back in the glass. Some people might think you're a straight shootin' chum, and call you a wonderful guy, but the man in the glass says you're only a bum, if you can't look him straight in the eye. He's the fellow to please, never mind all the rest, for he's with you clear to the end. And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test, if the huy in the glass is your friend, You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years, and get pats on the back as you pass. But your final reward will be heartaches and tears if you've cheated the man in the glass. ~Anonymous via Kathy’s cousin

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

From mentoring students in high school, and working in after-school programs in college, to elementary education teacher, turned school counselor, education has always been the answer to the question of “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Fayette County Public Schools has been my career home for the past 15 years and I have been able to call myself a Lexingtonian since my undergrad years at UK. Outside of the workplace, Kathy enjoys time with her family, celebrating her nephew who is graduating this month, exploring new things in town with close friends, and getting many walks or hikes in with her pup Marco.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Early Intervention
• The contrast in different school populations
• Mental Health
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Unlocking Us with Brene Brown, 

Every Little Thing (which is no longer adding new episodes), but still enjoy 

This American Life

Goal Diggers

TED Talks Daily. 

I am continuing my reading goal of one book for enjoyment and one for personal/career growth.

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

 John Nash

UK Professor  & Podcast Host 

Quote of the Podcast – 

"All design is redesign." Larry Leifer

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

John Nash was born and raised in Silicon Valley and has 30 years of experience in leadership development, strategy design, and social science research. He’s spent the last 13 years researching how design thinking serves leaders as a lens for change and improvement. John helps education leaders identify opportunities for human-centered innovation to make schools that people want. He's the author of the book, "Design Thinking in Education: A Leader's Guide to Collaborating for Improvement," published by Harvard Education Press. 

Since 2011, John has been an associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership Studies at the University of Kentucky. He’s the founder of UK’s Laboratory on Design Thinking (affectionately known as the “dLab”). John has held faculty positions at Iowa State University and the University of Texas at El Paso and was a social research scientist at Stanford University where he directed interdisciplinary and international teams of research scientists examining the effects of innovative technologies on learning. 

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds 

Slideology by Nancy Duarte 

Orbiting the Giant Hairball by Gordon MacKenzie 

How to Make Sense of Any Mess by Abby Covert Wreck 

This Journal by Keri Smith

John's Podcast - Online Learning in the Second Half

UK Video of John’s Design Thinking Class

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Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

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Penny Christian - Parent and Education Advocate

Quote of the Podcast – 

"Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. If there is no struggle, there is no progress." Frederick Douglass

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Kathleen “Penny” Christian is a native New Orleanian who has called Lexington, KY home since 1992. She and her husband Claude are the proud parents of 4 wonderful daughters. She has been fighting for equity in education for 20-plus years. Penny has served as PTA president at both the elementary and middle school levels. She then advanced to 16th District PTA President in Fayette County, from 2019-2021. She is currently Vice President of Leadership Outreach for Kentucky PTA. Over the years, her advocacy work at the district level includes serving on the Parent Superintendent Interview Committee and parent Representative on the District Safety Advisory Council. She has facilitated multiple presentations with school administrators on the importance of PTA and Family Engagement. 

One of the most rewarding experiences for her has been being selected as a member of the Inaugural Cohort of the EdTrust Family Fellowship. In 2020, Penny completed her requirements to become a Commonwealth Institute for Parent Leadership (CIPL) Fellow with the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence. She was selected as a member of Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence in 2020. She also serves as a member of the KY Collaborative for Families and Schools Advisory Council. Penny is currently a NPTA Legislative Committee member and served as a parent (family) representative on the Kentucky Coalition for Advancing Education, and now the Kentucky United We Learn Council.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education.
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Beyond the Bake Sale: The Essential Guide to Family/school Partnerships

Dual capacity framework by Karen Mapp

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P at https://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox
Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions, Lexington, KY

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Dr. Mary Mills, Principal,  Tates Creek High School

Quote of the Podcast – 

"If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be" - Maya Angelou

Introduction of Guest BIO – 

Dr. Marty Mills is the Principal of Tates Creek High School in Lexington, KY. Dr. Mills has been a member of the Tates Creek Campus Family for over 20 years as a student teacher, English teacher, and Associate Principal, and head principal the last six years.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society, invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about School Culture and the new building
• Touch on Mental Health post-Covid
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Currently reading Barbara Kingsolver's Demon Cooperhead

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Parent Camp Julie Pile and Laura Gilchrist

Quote of the Podcast – 

Leaders don't force people to follow, they invite the on the journey. - Ramesh Nanda Aggarwal

Introduction of Guests - 

Julie Pile is the President of ParentCamp and is the "parent" side of the house. A dedicated volunteer, Julie has been impacting schools for many years. She was elected to the Boone County School Board in 2018 and has served as a Parent Ambassador in the Boone County School System. Also in 2018, she was named to the inaugural class of the EdTrust Fund Parent Fellowship class. In 2017, Julie was named the inaugural recipient of the Beverly Nickels Raimondo Kentucky Parent Leadership Award named after the found of the Commonwealth Institute for Parent Leadership. In 2015 she was recognized as the Bammy Award People’s Choice Parent Leadership recipient. She has served in multiple PTA positions including Vice President of Communications for the Kentucky State PTA and past President of the recently formed Boone County High School PTSA.

Laura Gilchrist is a teacher turned consultant who is on a mission as ParentCamp Vice-President to teach every family-school-community how to come together in joyful connection and collaboration as ONE TEAM, ONE ECOSYSTEM for kids. The big goal is Family-School-Community-Integration and nationwide research about the impact of Family-School-Community Collective Efficacy.

Laura is passionate about teachers and teacher agency. She loves working with them and they love working with her. As CEO of Kid Champions Consulting Laura helps teachers and schools humanize and transform teaching and learning, whether it’s face to face and/or virtual.

https://www.parentcamp.org/

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book/Links shoutouts

Sarah Truebridge and her Monday night Resilience Chat

Phyl Macomber of Every Child Can Learn,

Lisa Anna Palmer of Light Your Leadership

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​Jason E. Glass is commissioner and chief learner at the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE).

Glass, a native of Brandenburg, Ky., has been commissioner of education since September 2020. He previously was superintendent and chief learner of Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado since 2017 and was superintendent of Eagle County Schools in Colorado from 2013 to 2017.

In 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Glass to the National Board for Education Sciences. He has received numerous awards for his work including: the 2019 Frank D’Angelis Inspiration Award; 2018 Jefferson County Administrators’ Association Leadership Award; 2017 Jefferson County Administrators’ Association Frazen Award for Innovation in Education; Columbine Masonic Lodge No. 147’s 2017 Denver Founder’s Award for Education Stewardship; 2016 Walking Mountains Science Center President’s Award for Leadership in Bilingual Education; 2016 Colorado Association of Bilingual Educators Advocacy Award for Advocacy for Language Education; Dual Language of New Mexico; Nominated in 2016 and 2019 for Colorado Superintendent of the Year; and Christian Science Monitor’s 8 School Chiefs to Watch, 2018’s #1 State Education Chief to Watch.

Glass is an avid mountain biker and alpine skier and enjoys camping and playing/listening to all kinds of music. He and his wife Sarah - who worked as a teacher for 17 years - have two children, Norah and Chase, and a dog, Sunny. Both children attend Fayette County Public Schools

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us about United We Learn – what should everyone know?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Renee Boss

Quote of the Podcast – 

“Education is not preparation for life but is life itself”

John Dewey 

Introduction of Guest BIO - 

Renee Boss has been an educator for 25 years. She earned her National Board Certification in Adolescent/Young Adult English Language Arts in 2007 and renewed in 2017. Renee taught high school English for 12 years before stepping aside to work as a consultant and program manager for KDE and Central Kentucky Educational Cooperative for a total of 8 years. She returned to the classroom after borrowing a classroom for her NBCT renewal because she realized how much she missed teaching. Currently, Renee teaches English at Woodford County High School where she also serves as department co-chair and STLP advisor. Over the past ten years, Renee has worked in various roles supporting NBCTs in Kentucky. She was elected to the KYNBCT aboard of Directors in 2021. In addition to her work supporting NBCTS, Renee also serves in other teacher leadership roles. She was part of the Prichard Committee Teacher Leader Steering Committee and a 2021 Prichard Committee Teacher Fellow. In the 22-23 school year, Renee was selected as a teacher leader for the UK-JHFE Holocaust Education Initiative and was also selected to work on her district’s Deeper Learning team. 

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Teacher Check-in Podcast

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

“Change really isn’t as hard as we thought if we capture people’s interest and give them enjoyable, worthwhile experience.”  ~ Michael Fullan

Introduction of Guest BIO - 

Lu provides executive leadership to all aspects of the Center of Next Generation Leadership with primary responsibility for Next Gen professional development. She is currently the Chair of the Kentucky State Board of Education. Previously, she served as the Chief Academic Officer of Fayette County Public Schools, and, before that, superintendent of Jessamine County Schools for nine years.

Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision makers to know?

Podcast/book shoutouts

Portrait of a Learner

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Kaitlyn Bowman is a native of Lexington, KY, and a graduate of Fayette County Public Schools Lafayette HS Engineering Program. She spent a lot of time volunteering and working with kids. She is currently enrolled at the University of Kentucky in the College of Education.

 Interview

Agents of Change: Leaders/Innovators/Educators/Students

• 30,000 ft. view – Why do we, as a society invest in education?
• What drew you to education?
• What do you love about what you do?
• Tell us a story or favorite memory about your work in education
• What are the biggest challenges or obstacles you face?
• What would you like decision-makers to know?

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions

We will be looking at education in action by interviewing educators about their daily experiences and the second episode each month, we take a 30,000-foot view to interview educators who are creating change at a macro level. I am Liza Holland, a passionate education advocate who has seen a wide variety of perspectives from Early Childhood through to the work world. I am your host of Education Perspectives. Join me as we begin to explore the many perspectives of the vast world that is education. 

Coming soon.

Support the show

Education Perspectives is edited by Shashank P athttps://www.fiverr.com/saiinovation?source=inbox

Intro and Outro by Dynamix Productions