A Slice with 'Dice

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice unpacks the startling statistic that 1 in 11 Harvard undergraduates come from just 21 high schools. We explore the concept of "feeder schools," their outsized role in shaping access to elite universities, and the implications for students navigating the admissions process from non-feeder schools. From privilege and equity to strategies for leveling the playing field, this episode dives deep into what it all means for students, parents, educators, and policymakers.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses can open doors to college and beyond, but is universal access enough to ensure equity? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the successes and challenges of Arkansas’s universal AP access policy, highlighting research that shows how these programs transform outcomes for students while still leaving gaps for underrepresented groups. This episode dives into what school leaders can do to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that AP opportunities truly reach every student.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Is Early Decision 2 (ED2) a strategic second chance or a panic move? ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the emotional and financial risks of binding ED2 applications, especially for students still reeling from Early Decision 1 (ED1) rejections. This episode unpacks why ED2 can feel like a lifeline but often comes with hidden costs, urging seniors to slow down, reflect, and approach college decisions with clarity rather than desperation.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

The summer between junior and senior year is a critical time for college-bound students to align their experiences with their future goals. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores why this summer is more than a break—it’s a chance for students to create meaningful opportunities that stand out in the competitive college admissions process. From passion projects to internships, camps, and research opportunities, we discuss how students can use this time to build points of distinction that reflect their authentic interests and make a lasting impression.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

It's a new year and the start of a new season! ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the intriguing phrase, "Speed is a number. Fast is a feeling," and unpacks its relevance to school leadership. Effective decision-making requires more than just data; it demands an understanding of the human stories behind the numbers. As leaders, we’re called to balance measurable outcomes with meaningful connections, ensuring that our choices serve both the metrics and the people we lead. Join us as we discuss the role of the leader in bridging data and emotions, navigating tough decisions, and fostering a culture where numbers and feelings coexist for impactful leadership.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores why educators should check out FX’s documentary series Social Studies. Directed by Lauren Greenfield, the series dives into how social media, inequality, and politics impact students and schools. With resources like lesson plans and discussion guides available for teachers and parents, Social Studies goes beyond just watching—it’s an actionable tool for classrooms. We discuss how the series sparks reflection on modern education’s challenges and invites educators to bring these vital conversations into their teaching practice.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice draws on the 2024 National Association for Gifted Children report, Universal Educator Preparation in Gifted Education, to explore the case for training all educators to understand and meet the needs of gifted and talented students. The report highlights systemic gaps in teacher preparation that leave many advanced learners unsupported, contributing to the Excellence Gap and inequities in gifted programming. By equipping teachers, counselors, and administrators with foundational training in gifted education, we can foster inclusive, equitable classrooms that benefit every learner. Tune in to discover how supporting gifted students can positively impact education for all.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

Reflecting on a semester isn’t just about grades—it’s about growth, resilience, and setting meaningful goals. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how parents can guide students through powerful conversations that celebrate accomplishments while addressing challenges. This episode outlines five key questions that help students reflect, recharge, and plan for the semester ahead. Whether your student is thriving or facing struggles, these insights will help them close one chapter and prepare for the next with confidence.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

For students navigating the stress of a deferral or waitlist decision, the Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) can be a powerful tool to reignite hope. ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores how students can craft an effective LOCI, offering guidance on what to include, how to highlight recent achievements, and why professionalism matters. This episode empowers students to approach the admissions process with resilience and confidence, ensuring their voices are heard even in uncertain moments.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.

ASMSA Executive Director Corey Alderdice explores the concept of "exerting pressure" from Barry Conchie and Sarah Dalton's The Five Talents That Really Matter: How Great Leaders Drive Extraordinary Performance. While the book identifies five key leadership talents—Setting Direction, Building Energy, Exerting Pressure, Increasing Connectivity, and Controlling Traffic—we focus on how exerting pressure can transform education. From challenging students to reach their full potential to fostering a school culture of excellence, this talent is about driving change and improvement through high expectations and meaningful support. Tune in to discover how purposeful pressure can unlock extraordinary growth in schools and classrooms.

For additional thoughts from Corey, visit coreyalderdice.com.

You can also follow him on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, BlueSky, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads.