Brighter Together

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Wade Callaway, the superintendent of Gruver ISD in Texas, to explore the power of relational leadership. Wade shares his unexpected journey from basketball coach to superintendent and the transformative initiatives he's championed, like the unique farm scholarship program that funds students' post-secondary education. We discuss the challenges of financial constraints in education, the importance of surrounding yourself with great people, and the impact of fostering a supportive community for both students and teachers. Wade emphasizes the significance of listening, learning, and building meaningful relationships, offering valuable advice for new educators stepping into leadership roles. Join us as we delve into the heart of what makes a school district thrive and the profound difference a dedicated leader can make.

What if your general education teachers were your best inclusion advocates?

In this episode of Brighter Together, we explore a full inclusion model that's worked for over two decades. From peer-to-peer leadership classes to the unseen emotional impact of the pandemic on young learners, this conversation dives into the real-life strategies that make schools more humane, supportive, and effective.

We talk behavioral challenges, post-pandemic trauma, and what it actually takes to build collaborative support between SPED and gen ed teams.

For any school leader wondering how to keep their staff supported while championing inclusion—this is your blueprint.

Dr. Tameka McKeithan isn’t just talking about care—she’s building systems around it. In this powerful episode, she breaks down what trauma-informed leadership looks like when it’s embedded into the DNA of school culture.

From equipping educators with empathy tools to transforming discipline into connection, Dr. McKeithan shares how schools can become healing spaces—starting at the leadership level. This episode is for anyone who knows that students don’t leave their pain at the door... and neither should we.

Join me, Janet Courtney, on this episode of Brighter Together as I sit down with Walter Reese, Director of Student Development and Special Education at University Prep School in Detroit. In "SPED Is Not a Place. It’s a Promise," we explore Walter's journey from aspiring doctor to passionate educator and advocate for diverse learners. With over 550 students across nine schools, Walter shares his insights on the challenges and rewards of special education. We discuss the importance of understanding student behavior, fostering a supportive environment, and the critical role of educators in shaping positive outcomes. Walter's dedication to creating equitable educational opportunities shines through as he emphasizes the need for compassion and visibility in leadership. Tune in to discover how we can better support students and educators in the ever-evolving landscape of special education.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Ian McPhet, the superintendent of Avison Global Leadership Academy, to discuss his bold vision for education amidst adversity. After devastating fires destroyed their campuses in Pasadena, Ian shares how the community has rallied to support students and staff, many of whom lost their homes. We explore the innovative approaches Avison is taking, such as international rites of passage trips and creative arts programs, to foster resilience and growth. Ian emphasizes the importance of hope and community in rebuilding and highlights the unique role charter schools play in public education. Join us as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of teaching the whole human in the face of unprecedented challenges.

In this episode of Brighter Together, titled "Walk With Them Before You Lead Them: The Culture Blueprint Every Principal Needs," I sit down with Alisha Love, the director of student experience at University Prep Schools in Detroit. Alisha shares insights into the CREW Experience, a foundational pillar of University Prep, designed to foster community, culture, and connection among students and staff. We explore the challenges and triumphs of implementing restorative practices across ten diverse schools, emphasizing the importance of building positive relationships and understanding individual needs. Alisha discusses the critical role of data in tailoring support and strategies to each school’s unique environment. We also delve into the importance of equipping students with coping tools to navigate their daily challenges, aiming to create a safe and supportive educational space. Join us for an enlightening conversation on transforming school culture and leadership.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Tomas Hanna, the Associate Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, to explore the transformative initiatives reshaping public education. We delve into the district's strategic plan, Accelerate Philly, aimed at providing students with choices and opportunities to pursue their passions. Tomas shares insights on the importance of creating welcoming school environments and building strong relationships to keep students engaged. We discuss innovative programs like Hazel Health and the ninth-grade academies that support student success and retention. Discover how Philadelphia is reducing dropout rates and empowering students with skills for the future. Join us as we uncover the inspiring stories and strategies that are helping students reclaim their purpose in education.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Shannon Stine, superintendent of Lake Norman Charter Schools in North Carolina. We explore how this pioneering charter school, the largest in the state, creates a microcosm of the world by embracing neurodiversity and fostering leadership and service from kindergarten through high school. Shannon shares insights into the school's mission-driven approach, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and community involvement. We discuss the unique challenges and successes of expanding from middle to elementary education, and how this shift has enriched the school's culture by welcoming students with diverse needs. Join us as we delve into how Lake Norman Charter is preparing students for an ever-changing world, ensuring they become servant leaders in their communities.

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Melody Maitland, Director of Student Services at Capital City Public Charter School in Washington, DC. We delve into the essential role of trust in education, emphasizing that mistakes are part of the growth process. Melody shares her journey from special education teacher to her current role and discusses the challenges of staffing post-pandemic. We explore the importance of building a supportive community for educators, focusing on capacity building and retention. Melody highlights the significance of creating a culture where teachers feel safe to make mistakes and learn from them. We also touch on the importance of work-life balance and mental health for staff. Join us as we discuss how fostering trust and collaboration can lead to a brighter future for both educators and students.

In this raw and real episode of Brighter Together, Monica Brown, Special Education Director at Providence Hall Charter School, shares what happens when students are invited into their own IEP process—and what happens when they're left out.

From food intolerances masking as learning issues to emotional minefields in IEP meetings, Monica reveals the simple truth most educators overlook: students perform better when they believe they’re worth it.

She shares wins that don’t make the news but change lives—like reassigning a miscategorized student or giving exhausted staff the emotional permission to breathe. Her whole-child lens is one every SPED director needs to hear.

If you’ve ever asked, "How do we make IEPs less about compliance and more about kids?" this is the episode that answers it.