Better Learning Podcast

Are you curious about the future of education and how it's being shaped by innovative leaders?

In this engaging episode, host Kevin Stoller guides us through a captivating dialogue that spans Rachel's journey from her upbringing in South Carolina to her remarkable achievements as a Rising Star NexGen Award winner. But that's just the beginning.

We uncover insights into the intricate world of school finances and funding models, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that shape educational equity.

But it doesn't stop there. Kevin and Rachel venture into the future of education, exploring what success means for the next generation and envisioning the evolving dynamics of learning in a rapidly changing world.

From education conferences to the intricacies of hiring an executive director, fundraising for nonprofits to the art of parenting amidst entrepreneurial endeavors, this episode offers a rich tapestry of topics that will leave you inspired and informed.

Takeaways:

• Rachel's career path has taken her from wanting to be a fashion designer to working in law and eventually becoming a school board member.

• Financing education is a complex issue, with different states and districts relying on various funding models.

• The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of well-maintained and innovative school facilities.

• The future of education should focus on providing opportunities and removing restrictions for students, allowing them to pursue their passions and interests.

• It is important for policymakers and stakeholders to have open and honest conversations about education funding and to prioritize the needs of students. Participating in education conferences and associations can be beneficial for networking and staying connected with industry professionals.

• Hiring an executive director with experience in education leadership can be valuable for organizations like ELO.

• Fundraising for a nonprofit can be challenging, but it is important to make the ask and leverage personal networks.

• Entrepreneurship and parenting can intersect, providing valuable lessons and experiences for children.

Follow on Rachel Wisnefski on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelwisnefski/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrRachelWiz

Website: https://drrachelwisnefski.com/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 178 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Are you curious about the future of education and how technology is shaping the way we learn?

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, we embark on a fascinating journey into the world of project-based learning (PBL) and artificial intelligence (AI) with special guest David Ross. Join us as we delve into thought-provoking questions that unravel the potential of AI to revolutionize the classroom experience.

Takeaways:

• David Ross has a background in sports writing and transitioned to become a teacher, with a focus on project-based learning (PBL).

• COVID-19 has challenged the notion that physical attendance in school is inevitable, leading to the exploration of alternative learning options.

• AI has the potential to empower teachers by saving time on administrative tasks and providing personalized learning experiences.

• Teacher training in AI and prompt engineering is crucial for effective implementation in the classroom.

• The current landscape of AI in education is still in the early stages, with a wide range of products and possibilities. AI can assist teachers in designing curriculum and writing projects for project-based learning (PBL).

• AI has the potential to upskill students and provide equitable educational opportunities, particularly for schools in economically disadvantaged areas or rural areas.

• The use of AI in various fields, such as chatbots, graphics, and video, can enhance the learning experience for students.

• Virtual reality experiences can level the playing field for students who don't have access to resources like museums or science centers.

• Anchoring projects in the local community can engage students and make learning more relevant and meaningful.

David Ross is the former Senior Director of the Buck Institute for Education (now PBLWorks), where he wrote the PBL Starter Kit and created and directed the PBL World Conference. David later worked in Washington DC as the CEO of the Partnership for 21st Century Learning, where he coordinated the bipartisan 21st Century Learning Caucus in the United States House of Representatives.

Follow on David Ross on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ross-b234b9ba/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 177 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Do you ever wonder how the spaces where we learn impact our educational journey?

Or how interior design intertwines with education to create environments that foster growth and engagement?

In this conversation, Nikki shares her unique journey from the halls of academia to the forefront of interior design. Drawing from her own school experiences, she illuminates how the environment can shape learning outcomes and student engagement. From there, she delves into her transition into the professional realm, emphasizing the pivotal roles of flexibility and mentorship in personal and career growth.

As Nikki and host Kevin Stoller explore various facets of education design, they shed light on the importance of continuous research and staying abreast of industry trends. Nikki's insights underscore the significance of integrating furniture and professional development into educational spaces, elevating the learning experience for all.

Takeaways

1. School environments play a significant role in student engagement and learning outcomes.

2. Flexibility and mentorship are crucial for personal and professional growth.

3. Continual research and staying up-to-date with industry trends are essential in education design.

4. Integrating furniture and professional development can enhance the learning experience. Traveling with children can be challenging, but it's important to take time for yourself and your relationship.

5. Missed opportunities for travel can be disappointing, but it's never too late to fulfill your travel dreams.

6. Researching and choosing the right firm can have a big impact on your career satisfaction.

Nikki Snellinger is an interior designer with 9 years of experience in the education market sector. She has been with JCJ for 5 out of those 9 years, working on projects anywhere from pre-K to K-12 to local Boys and Girls Clubs.

Nikki works on all aspects of the project such as figuring out design solutions, making finish selections, producing construction documentation, selecting FF&E and overseeing the furniture installation. Nikki took part in designing the EDMarket classroom design for the 2022 EDSpaces furniture show in Portland, OR. Based off her experience and hard work with that project, she was nominated for the 2023 NextGen Rising Star award and was one of 16 winners.

Nikki Snellinger 2023 NexGen Award Winner

Nominate a Rising Star in Education 40 and Under for the 2024 NexGen Awards

Follow on Nikki Snellinger on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkisnellinger/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 176 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Heidie's journey into education was sparked by her experiences in athletics, where she discovered her competitive drive and desire to make a positive impact on others. Despite initially aiming for a principalship, she embraced the opportunity to become a superintendent as a means to broaden her influence and advocate for students on a larger scale.

One of the central themes of the conversation was the importance of maintaining a student-centered approach in the face of political pressures. Heidie shared her commitment to prioritizing the needs of students above all else, even as external forces attempt to inject politics into the educational landscape. By staying true to her core values and focusing on what truly matters – the students – she aims to create an environment where learning thrives free from political interference.

Throughout the episode, Heidie's passion for organizational leadership and her unwavering dedication to the students and staff of Fenton Area Public Schools shone through. Her authenticity and commitment to fostering a positive learning environment serve as a guiding light for educational leaders everywhere.

Takeaways

1. Heidie emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs of students above all else, even in the face of political pressures, to create an environment where learning thrives.

2. Despite initial career aspirations, Heidie seized the opportunity to become a superintendent, driven by her desire to broaden her influence and advocate for students on a larger scale.

3. Heidie's journey underscores the importance of staying true to core values and embracing discomfort to effect positive change, demonstrating the transformative power of passion-driven leadership in education.

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, host Kevin Stoller sat down with Heidie Ciesielski, Superintendent of Fenton Area Public Schools, for an insightful discussion on educational leadership, staying radically student-centered, and navigating the complexities of the superintendent role. With 26 years of experience in education, including stints as a middle school principal and Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, Heidie brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for empowering those within her district.

Follow on Heidie Ciesielski on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidie-ciesielski-b29527131/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/heidiec24

Fenton Area Public Schools: https://www.fentonschools.org/page/superintendent

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 175 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Ever wondered what drives the passion of an educator?

With a background spanning over a decade of teaching high school English across diverse settings, Katelyn Forcucci's rich experiences have shaped her understanding of the complexities of education and the profound impact teachers can have on their students' lives.

Throughout this conversation, Katelyn shares her reflections on the importance of preparing learners for the future. She emphasizes the critical role educators play in not only imparting knowledge but also nurturing essential skills that will empower students to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Takeaways

• Educators play a crucial role in preparing learners for the future and should focus on developing their skills and knowledge.

• Building strong relationships with students is essential for effective teaching and learning.

• Educators should create a positive classroom climate and provide clear expectations and procedures.

• Humor and storytelling can be powerful tools in engaging students and creating a positive learning environment.

• Education is an undervalued profession that requires dedication and a passion for making a difference in students' lives.

Katelyn spent ten years teaching high school English. She has taught: 7-12 graders in Cambridge, Intensive, Honors, and regular English classes as well as Creative Writing and Regents Prep. Katelyn started her teaching career in Upstate New York where she received her tenure. She taught 9 Honors, Cambridge, and 12th grade College Prep English in Florida. She has taught in affluent, rural, and urban settings.

Most recently, Katelyn was the Director of Education for NorvaNivel USA, LLC. She served as an Education Specialist on the Innovations Team for Charter Schools USA where she was instrumental in designing a future-ready school model. Presently, she is independently consulting.

Kelsey Jordan 2023 NexGen "Rising Stars" Recipient

Follow on Katelyn Forcucci on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-forcucci-eds/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 174 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Education Market Association (EDmarket) - https://www.edmarket.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

From her own school experiences to her professional career in architecture and design, Kelsey Jordan underscores the pivotal role collaboration and empathy play in shaping learning environments.

In this conversation, Kelsey Jordan, an architect specializing in educational design, discusses her school experience and career decisions. Being recognized as one of the upcoming rising stars in education, she shares her passion for equity in the built environment and leveling the playing field for all students. She highlights the need for open-mindedness and reframing questions to foster creativity and innovation.

Kelsey also discusses her future predictions and the importance of storytelling in inspiring change in education. This conversation explores the importance of reaching the average person and promoting educational stories beyond the school community.

Takeaways

• Collaboration and empathy are crucial in creating better learning environments.

• Designing for equity in the built environment helps level the playing field for all students.

• Reframing questions as 'what if' instead of 'how' encourages creativity and innovation.

• Storytelling is a powerful tool for inspiring change in education. Producing entertaining content can help reach a wider audience and promote positive messages about education.

• Stories have the power to inspire change and challenge negative perceptions of schools.

• De-stigmatizing special education is crucial for creating inclusive learning environments.

• Networking with professionals from different industries can provide valuable insights and ideas for educational projects.

Kelsey Jordan is an Educational Planner and Architect who is experienced as an educational design professional with an emphasis on education and wellness. Her visions for the future of architecture involve strongly embedded ideologies on designing for equity in the built environment.

Follow on Kelsey Jordan on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseydjordan/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 173 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

School safety extends far beyond fortifying against external threats.

While it's crucial for schools to be secure environments, true safety encompasses more than just repelling intruders and weapons. A genuinely safe school fosters an atmosphere where students, staff, and teachers feel secure not only during emergencies but also in their day-to-day activities.

However, the conventional approach to school design often prioritizes security measures that result in a stark, "prison-like" atmospheres.

In our latest Better Learning Podcast episode, we dive deep into an often overlooked aspect of education: the design of school buildings. Imagine stepping into a classroom where every corner, every color, and every space is carefully crafted to nurture rather than hinder learning. Deepa Bharatkumar, an architect at Bassetti Architects, brings her 17 years of experience to the forefront as she shares insights into how the built environment impacts our educational experiences.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation is the importance of pre-design work and stakeholder engagement. Deepa emphasizes that successful school architecture projects are not just about blueprints and construction; they're about understanding the needs and experiences of the people who will inhabit these spaces.

But the journey doesn't end once the buildings are erected. Post-occupancy evaluation becomes a critical tool in identifying areas for improvement and informing future design decisions. By continuously refining our approach and sharing findings within the design community, we can pave the way for continuous improvement in education.

Takeaways

1. Trauma-informed design is crucial in creating safe and supportive learning environments in schools.

2. Pre-design work and stakeholder engagement are essential for successful school architecture projects.

3. Post-occupancy evaluation helps identify areas for improvement and informs future design decisions.

4. Sharing findings and resources within the design community can lead to continuous improvement in education.

As an architect at Bassetti Architects in Portland, Oregon, Deepa is deeply aware of how the built environment affects people. She sees educational design projects as an opportunity to serve some of the most important people Bassetti designs for – children.

As the mother of two, she places high importance on creating schools that are rewarding and enriching for their users and a landmark for the surrounding community. Over her 17 years in the profession, she has become an advocate for listening to students' voices, in addition to teacher and district voices, to create spaces that address the needs of the individual and help to create equity within our educational environments.

The Bassetti Architecture Trauma-Informed Design Workbook

Bassetti Architects Website

Follow on Deepa Bharatkumar on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepabharatkumar/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 172 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

EDmarket - https://www.edmarket.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Are standardized tests truly the gatekeepers to higher education, or are they just another hoop to jump through in academics?

In this episode of the Better Learning Podcast, Kevin Stoller delves deep into this contentious topic with Shaan Patel, the mastermind behind Prep Expert. Brace yourselves for a conversation that will challenge your perceptions of education, standardized testing, and the road to success.

It's no secret that college entrance exams hold immense power over a student's future. Sean Patel knows this firsthand. Despite being a stellar student, he grappled with test anxiety and uncertainty when facing the SAT.

But here's the twist: Patel didn't accept defeat.

Instead, he went on a journey of self-discovery and relentless preparation, ultimately increasing his score an astounding 640 points to perfection. Patel's improvement wasn't just about acing a test; it was about shattering the myth that standardized testing is an insurmountable barrier for those who don't fit the mold.

This shows that the current system is flawed. Standardized testing, though intended to level the playing field, often ends up exacerbating inequalities. It's a game where the rules seem arbitrary, and victory eludes many deserving candidates.

In our conversation, Patel doesn't just critique the status quo; he offers tangible solutions. From reimagining the education system to prioritizing skills over scores, he lays out a roadmap for reform that's as inspiring as it is pragmatic.

Takeaways

• College entrance exams play a crucial role in the college admissions process and can significantly impact a student's chances of getting into their desired university.

• Education should focus not only on content but also on developing skills and traits such as self-motivation, hard work, and time management.

• Standardized testing provides a merit-based framework for evaluating students and can help differentiate between individuals in a system with grade inflation.

• The education system can sometimes feel like a game, with students and schools trying to navigate the rules and achieve the best outcomes. Life can be seen as a game, with individuals striving to get ahead and succeed in various areas such as business and career.

• Equal opportunity is important, but making everyone equal in outcomes may not be realistic or desirable.

• The education system faces challenges in balancing equity and access with the realities of the real world.

• Drive, grit, and self-motivation are crucial for success, regardless of one's circumstances.

Learn More About Prep Expert (As Seen on Shark Tank)

Follow on Shaan Patel on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaan-patel-md-mba-399bb8a4/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaanpatel/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 171 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/ Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/ Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

In a world where traditional educational models often fall short of engaging learners, one nonprofit is harnessing the transformative potential of media and storytelling to revolutionize education. In this episode of our Better Learning podcast, Kevin Stoller delves into the innovative work of Second Class Foundation, inviting us to reimagine education through the lens of storytelling.

Second Class Foundation isn't just another nonprofit—it's a movement. By leveraging the captivating medium of storytelling, this organization is on a mission to inspire change in education. Through their groundbreaking docu-series, 'What We Show Them,' they shine a spotlight on the remarkable journey of Valley View Elementary School in Idaho. But this series isn't just about one school—it's about weaving together diverse narratives from different communities, each with its own unique challenges and triumphs. It's about sparking conversations, challenging perceptions, and ultimately, catalyzing positive change in education.

The name "Second Class Foundation" might raise eyebrows at first glance. What does it mean? Is it a commentary on the current state of education? Or perhaps a bold vision for the future? Kevin Stoller addresses these questions head-on, explaining that the name is intentionally provocative. It challenges us to confront the realities of our education system and inspires us to strive for a future where every learner is empowered to reach their full potential.

Whether it's through volunteering, making donations, spreading the word, or exploring funding options, there are countless ways to get involved. Because when it comes to reshaping the future of education, every voice matters, and every action counts.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb_otBSMzAo

Takeaways

• Second Class Foundation is a nonprofit that aims to inspire change in education through media and storytelling.
• The docu-series 'What We Show Them' focuses on the story of Valley View Elementary School in Idaho.
• The series aims to intertwine stories from different communities and inspire change in education.
• The audience is invited to get involved by volunteering, donating, spreading the word, and connecting with funding options.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for creating impactful content and inspiring change in education.

How Can I Help Support The Second Class Foundation Mission?

Watch the New Docuseries What We Show Them: https://www.secondclassfoundation.org/projects

Follow on Second Class Foundation on Social Media:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCone73bOwsNkIanKTuCfbNg

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/secondclassfoundation

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/secondclassfoundation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondclassfoundation/

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 170 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/

Want to be a Guest Speaker? Request on our website!

Despite strides towards gender equality, women have long been underrepresented in educational leadership, facing systemic biases that hinder their advancement.

In this episode, School Superintendent Lisa Leali sheds light on the pervasive biases that continue to shape perceptions of women in leadership. She emphasized that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done in dismantling the structural barriers that prevent women from ascending to positions of power and influence.

The road to leadership is often fraught with challenges, and for women, these challenges can be compounded by societal expectations and cultural norms. From implicit bias in hiring practices to the lack of representation in decision-making bodies, women face systemic hurdles at every turn.

In addition to advocating for systemic change, Lisa emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support networks for women in leadership. She believes that by lifting each other up and sharing our experiences, we can create a more supportive and empowering ecosystem for women leaders to thrive.

What actionable steps can we take to dismantle systemic biases and create more inclusive environments for women in educational leadership?

Takeaways

1. Building trust and collaboration are essential for navigating challenging situations.

2. Addressing achievement gaps and improving equity should be a priority in education.

3. Leaders should seek resources, learn from others, and create a culture of continuous improvement.

4. Barriers for women in leadership roles need to be addressed, and the selection process for superintendents should be reevaluated.

Dr. Lisa Leali has been Superintendent of Schools for Lake Bluff Elementary School District 65 since July 2020. Dr. Leali has over 20 years of experience in public education and earned her master's degree in Educational Leadership in 2007 from Northeastern Illinois University and her doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2010 from National-Louis University.

Her dissertation was titled "Joyful Classrooms, Successful Kids: A study in the connection between joy and learning." Leali has served as a consultant on standards-based reporting and writing instruction for school districts in Lake and Cook Counties, has presented regionally for the Illinois Association for Curriculum Development on data and assessment and has presented nationally on the topics of instructional coaching, district leadership and superintendent evaluation.

Learn more about Dr. Lisa Leali:

Lake Bluff School District 65 Website: https://www.lb65.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-leali-she-her-hers-a2b0ab53/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LisaLeali

Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Find out more about Kevin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstoller/.

For more episodes of the Better Learning Podcast, visit https://www.betterlearningpodcast.com/

Episode 169 of the Better Learning Podcast

Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

For more information on our partners:

Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) - https://www.a4le.org/

Education Leaders' Organization - https://www.ed-leaders.org/

Second Class Foundation - https://secondclassfoundation.org/