Brighter Together

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Lezlie Katz, the director of Marshall Academy Public School in Michigan. We delve into the challenges facing public schools today, including declining enrollment and the impact of virtual schooling post-COVID. Lezlie shares how Marshall Academy stands out with its small class sizes and a commitment to a supportive learning environment from preschool through high school. We discuss the innovative "Grow Your Own" program aimed at addressing teacher shortages and the importance of building strong relationships in education. Join us as we explore the vital shift from chaos to connection in our schools, emphasizing the need for community and understanding in today's rapidly changing educational landscape.

What if school wasn’t about age or ability—but about curiosity, connection, and growing into your full self?

In this inspiring episode of Brighter Together, Erin Smith—Director of Elementary Education at Socrates Preparatory School—shares what it looks like when personalized learning truly drives a school’s mission. From mixed-age classrooms to tech-integrated, 21st-century skill-building, Erin walks us through a learning model that prioritizes each student’s needs, pace, and passions.

We talk candidly about the role of AI, the vanishing spark of childhood curiosity, and why trust—not rigid curriculum—is what today’s educators and learners need most.

If you’ve ever asked, “What if we restructured school around who students really are?”—this conversation answers it with clarity, compassion, and real-world strategy.

Because when every student truly matters, the whole system shifts for the better.

In this uplifting episode of Brighter Together, we hear from Willy Chambers, Superintendent and Special Education Director at Blackhawk School District—a small rural district with a big heart for inclusion.

From a deeply personal success story of a student with Down syndrome to tackling the rapidly shifting landscape of AI in education, Willy opens up about what it really means to lead in today’s schools. He shares the challenges of wearing many hats, building bridges between limited resources and limitless potential, and the critical need to maintain the human element in a tech-driven age.

If you’re an administrator seeking clarity in chaos or a leader passionate about creating real student opportunity with real community support—this episode is your next dose of encouragement and practical insight.

Because when a school doesn’t just accommodate students with differences but celebrates them… everyone rises.

What if a single spark of confidence could change a student's entire future?

In this inspiring episode of Brighter Together, we sit down with Glenda Butterfield-Boldig—Superintendent and Director of Special Education at Bowler School District in Wisconsin—where inclusion isn't just a value, it's an engine for student transformation.

From partnering with the Stockbridge-Munsee tribal community to launching a record-breaking super mileage vehicle program, Glenda shares how project-based learning unlocks confidence, competency, and long-term opportunity for students with diverse needs.

Whether you're navigating special education leadership, reimagining what “school” can look like, or simply hoping to spark more engagement in your classrooms—this conversation offers real tools, real outcomes, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Because when students go from barely participating to building 800-miles-per-gallon cars… everything changes.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Doug Parker, the superintendent of Big Foot Union High School in Wisconsin, to discuss the intersection of education and social media, and its impact on mental health. Doug shares insights on the unique challenges his school faces, from budget constraints to the lingering effects of COVID-19 on student attendance and well-being. We delve into the evolving role of technology in classrooms, the importance of fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff, and the need for empathy in education. Join us as we explore the pressing issues affecting today's youth and how educators can navigate this complex landscape while keeping the focus on what truly matters—our students.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I chat with Dr. Colleen Timm, the agency administrator for the Cooperative Educational Service Agency Seven. We dive into her mission of creating educational environments where every student feels valued and prepared for their future. Dr. Timm shares insights from her extensive experience in transforming low-performing schools by implementing a "diploma-by-design" approach. She emphasizes the importance of personalized educational pathways, helping students discover their interests and career options early on. Join us as we explore how these initiatives not only enhance academic performance but also instill hope and confidence in students, ensuring they are truly next-level ready for whatever comes next in life.

When Christy Kinder arrived at Falls Lake Academy, there was no cohesive reading program—just passionate educators doing their best with scattered tools.

In this powerful episode of *Brighter Together*, Christy shares how COVID funding, deep expertise, and community buy-in led to the launch of a transformative, tech-supported reading intervention for exceptional learners. Using the HillWrap (now 95Wrap) model, her team saw students with reading disabilities grow from “I can’t read” to “I am a reader.”

Christy walks us through the program's structure, the data that drives it, and the human outcomes that keep her team inspired. From state testing growth to dismissals from IEPs, this conversation is a masterclass in what’s possible when we design with intention—and invest in both students and the systems that serve them.

Because reading isn’t just a skill—it’s a gateway to confidence, freedom, and future success.

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Susie Tiggs, the Director of Education at the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Susie shares her transformative journey through the evolving landscape of deaf education, particularly the impact of cochlear implants. We discuss the crucial work that goes into making these devices effective for students and the importance of collaboration among educators and support staff. Susie highlights the challenges faced in providing adequate services to deaf and hard of hearing students in Maine, especially in remote areas. Her insights on the necessity of training and empowering caregivers and paraprofessionals offer valuable takeaways for educators everywhere. Join us as we explore how a change in approach can lead to brighter opportunities for all students.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Rachel Galanis, the resource center director at St. John's Lutheran School in Lannon, Wisconsin. Rachel shares her inspiring journey of transforming doubt into breakthroughs through her faith-driven approach to education. With nearly 20 years of experience in the juvenile justice system, Rachel discusses how she integrates emotional and mental health support within a Christian framework for students. She highlights the importance of building resilience, fostering a supportive school culture, and engaging families in the process. As we explore the challenges and victories in creating a safe emotional environment for kids, Rachel’s passion for helping students navigate their feelings and relationships shines through. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about the profound impact of faith and community in education.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dan Keyser, the superintendent of Stoughton Area School District, to discuss the intricate balance of fostering a culture of belonging while navigating budget constraints. Dan shares his experiences managing staffing challenges amid declining enrollment and the vital importance of effective communication within a school community. We explore how he implemented a staffing plan, the complexities of difficult decisions, and the significance of creating an environment where students and staff feel valued. Join us as we uncover the essential elements of leadership and the commitment to prioritizing student well-being, even when resources are tight.