In this episode of On the Subject, host Michael Vilardo sits down with the recently former Superintendent of Clark County School District and a champion for underserved students. From his early days as a 10-year-old immigrant to leading the fifth-largest district in the country, he shares the personal and professional moments that shaped his drive to prove all kids—regardless of background—can succeed at high levels.

He discusses the challenges of leadership, the evolving role of technology in classrooms, and what it takes to individualize education at scale. You’ll hear why he believes zip codes shouldn’t determine student success, how we can rethink seat time in schools, and a deeply personal moment that reminded him why this work matters. This is a can’t-miss conversation about purpose, perseverance, and public education’s future.