Building Blocks

In this episode of Building Blocks, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Adrian Washburn, principal of Pearland High School, for an inside look at what it means to lead one of the district’s first schools and carrying on a proud tradition of excellence. 

The conversation highlights the programs, strategies, and traditions that make Pearland High School a place where students thrive, as well as the powerful partnerships with families and the Pearland community that strengthen the learning experience.

It’s an engaging discussion on leadership, collaboration, and the work happening every day to support student success.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

Doing business with a school district can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

In this episode of Building Blocks, Ja’Nice Lockett, Purchasing Coordinator for Pearland ISD, takes listeners inside the Purchasing Department and explains how purchasing supports students, classrooms and daily operations. We break down how businesses can become approved vendors, clear up common misconceptions and highlight opportunities for local and small businesses to partner with the district.

Doing Business with Pearland ISD: https://www.pearlandisd.org/departments/business-services/purchasing/purchasing

Ja'Nice Lockett's email: [email protected]

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this Principal Series episode, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Amanda Windsor, Principal of Barbara Cockrell Elementary, to share what drives her leadership and what makes her campus special. Mrs. Windsor talks about what inspired her to become a principal, the programs and traditions she’s most proud of, how her team partners with families and the community, and the new initiatives taking shape this year.

A quick, inspiring look at the heart of Barbara Cockrell Elementary.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this Principal Series episode, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Veronica August, Principal of Magnolia Elementary, to explore what makes her campus bloom. Principal August shares what inspired her path into leadership, the programs and traditions that define Magnolia’s warm, nurturing culture, and how her team partners with families to help students thrive. She also highlights the innovative practices and fresh ideas taking shape on campus this year.

A bright and uplifting look at the leadership behind Magnolia Elementary.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this Principal Series episode, Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Beth West, the steady heartbeat of Rustic Oak Elementary. Principal West reflects on her journey in school leadership, the traditions and programs that make Rustic Oak special, and the deep relationships she’s built with families, students, and staff over the years. She also shares the initiatives and campus culture that continue to inspire her after all this time.

A warm, insightful look at the legacy and leadership behind Rustic Oak Elementary.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this Principal Series episode, host Dr. Larry Berger sits down with Stacie Van Loenen, Principal of Silverlake Elementary, for a look at the leadership, culture, and innovation driving her campus. Principal Van Loenen shares what inspired her journey into school leadership, the programs and traditions that make Silverlake shine, how her team partners with families and the community, and the new ideas and initiatives energizing the school this year.

A brief but meaningful glimpse into the heart of Silverlake Elementary.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

It’s one of the hottest topics every year...the school calendar, and in this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Dr. Larry Berger pulls back the curtain with the two people who lead the work: Dr. La’Kesha Henson-Vaughn, Executive Director of Intermediate Schools, and Dr. Charles Allen, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.

Together, they break down what really goes into creating an academic calendar, from state laws and instructional minutes to community feedback, committee discussions, and the biggest requests from parents and students. They also walk us through the key factors that shaped the proposed 2026–27 calendars and what happens next in the approval process.

If you’ve ever wondered why the calendar lands where it does or if you’ve ever had an opinion about it, this is an episode you’ll want to hear. Parents and students this one’s especially for you.

Vacation Planning Calendar: https://www.pearlandisd.org/departments/outreach-attendance/attendance

For more information on the Academic Calendar Committee please email Dr. La'Kesha Henson-Vaughn at [email protected].

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

Get ready for a fun episode as Dr. Larry Berger sits down with his mom, Kitty Bethke. She shares what Larry Ray was really like growing up, the funny moments that hinted at who he’d become, and her reaction when he decided to go into education. Kitty talks about the people who shaped him, whether she still gives him mom advice, and what makes her proudest of the superintendent she raised.

A light, playful, and sweet behind the scenes look at the man Pearland ISD knows as Dr. Berger, and the son Kitty knows best as Larry Ray.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger talks with Harris Elementary Principal LaShonda Pernetter about the heart and vision behind her campus. She shares what drives her as a leader, the unique experiences Harris offers students, and how her team builds strong connections with families and the community. Principal Pernetter also gives a glimpse into the new ideas taking shape this year and what she is most excited to see ahead. 

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast

In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, Dr. Larry Berger talks with Pearland Junior High South Principal Jason Frerking about what inspired him to lead, the programs and traditions that make his campus special. Mr. Frerking also shares about the implementation of “flex days” at PJH South and what excites him most about the future of his campus.

This episode offers a quick, meaningful look into the people and practices supporting student success at Pearland ISD.

Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form:
https://www.pearlandisd.org/about-us/administration/superintendent-s-page/podcast