Building Blocks

In this episode, Dr. Berger catches up with Jonathan Kraft, a Pearland High School alumnus whose musical journey has taken him from marching with the Pride of Pearland to performing with the U.S. Army Band ‘Pershing’s Own’, one of the most elite military bands in the world.

Jonathan reflects on his time in the PHS band program, sharing the memories, mentors, and music that helped shape his path. 

Now performing for presidents, dignitaries, and national events, Jonathan shares some of the most unforgettable moments he's experienced with 'Pershing’s Own'.

This episode is a tribute to the power of music education, determination, and hometown pride. Don’t miss it!

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

In this episode, we shine the spotlight on Darius Wright, a proud member of Dawson High School’s very first graduating class and now a celebrated Broadway performer. Darius shares what it was like to help shape the culture of a brand-new school and how his time in the Dawson theatre and arts programs laid the foundation for an incredible career on stage.

This is an episode full of inspiration, authenticity, and artistic passion—don’t miss it!

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

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Berger sits down with Mike Collins, a Pearland High School alumnus whose journey from struggling student to successful entrepreneur is a powerful reminder that your start doesn’t define your finish. Mike shares honest reflections on his high school years—two summers of summer school and the determination to keep moving forward.

Now the co-owner of Elevate Franchise Brands, Mike opens up about the challenges of shifting from working in his father’s plumbing business to leading a multi-brand franchise company. Mike uses his platform to mentor and motivate others, especially students and young entrepreneurs who may be navigating setbacks of their own.

Whether you're building a business, chasing a dream, or just need a reminder that your past doesn’t define your future, Mike’s story will leave you fired up and ready to level up.

🙌Rise Mentoring Program: https://www.pearlandisd.org/departments/rise-mentoring/rise-mentoring

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

In this episode, Dr. Berger catches up with Mackenzie Hogan, a Dawson High School alumna whose journey has taken her from the stage at DHS to the magical world of Disney. Mackenzie shares how her experiences in dance, leadership, and marketing shaped her path that ultimately led her to a dream career with Disney’s entertainment and event teams.

Whether you’re a Disney fan, a student chasing big goals, or just love a great success story, this episode is full of inspiration and a little bit of pixie dust! 

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

In this episode, we reconnect with Dustin Garrison, a Pearland High School alumnus and key player in the 2010 state championship team—a season that still holds a special place in the hearts of Oiler fans. Dustin reflects on the moments that defined his life, the lessons learned on and off the field, and the coaches and mentors who helped shape him into the person he is today.

Dustin opens up about navigating life after football, finding new purpose, and applying the lessons from Pearland and beyond to his career and personal life.

For current students chasing their dreams—whether in sports, academics, or other passions—Dustin shares invaluable advice about staying focused, resilient, and grounded. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of Pearland’s own!

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

Dr. Berger sits down with four candidates running for the Pearland ISD School Board. In this special forum-style podcast, we provide a platform for them to share their vision, priorities, and perspectives.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or engaged community member, this Building Blocks episode offers the insights you need to make an informed decision at the polls. Tune in and be part of the conversation shaping the future of Pearland ISD!

Election Information:

https://www.pearlandisd.org/board-of-trustees/election-information

Position 5:

Daniel Stuckey

Azania Salazar

Position 6:

Jim Johnson

Jenny Francis

Position 7:

Nanette Weimer

✅Early Voting begins April 22

✅Election Day is May 3

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 Building Blocks with Dr. Berger, we're diving into the heart of school counseling with two exceptional guests: Tara LeMaire from Carleston Elementary and Landry Angel from Rustic Oaks Elementary. Both counselors recently earned the prestigious 2024 CREST Award for Counseling Excellence, and they’re here to share the insights and dedication that led to this achievement.

Whether you're a counselor aiming to enhance your program or someone curious about the impact of counseling in schools, this conversation is filled with practical advice and inspiring stories. Tune in and discover the building blocks of exceptional counseling programs that truly make a difference in students' lives.

⭐Carleston Elementary CREST Award Information: https://sites.google.com/view/carlestonelementarycrest/home

⭐Rustic Oak Elementary CREST Award Information: https://sites.google.com/view/rusticoakelementary/section-i?authuser=0

🎙️Dr. Moore's Podcast: https://youtu.be/4jboZSz9Djk

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

Join us for a new episode of the Building Blocks Podcast as Dr. Berger sits down with Ivan Alvarado, a dedicated Warehouse Man in the district's Maintenance and Operations Department. Ivan shares his journey to becoming part of the team and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the essential work that keeps our schools running smoothly.

Don't miss this insightful conversation highlighting the often unseen, but always essential, work that supports Pearland ISD every day!

💚🔨Ivan Alvarado featured on Who is Building Pearland Proud: https://youtu.be/CdCqwRuZ71s

#011 - Serving Success & Making the District Shine: The Operations Department: https://youtu.be/JK2YtWPktvE

💼To learn more about job opportunities at Pearland ISD, visit: https://www.applitrack.com/pearlandisd/onlineapp/

🚚To learn more about our operations department, visit: https://www.pearlandisd.org/departments/maintenance-operations/operations-department

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

In this episode, we are kicking off our alumni highlight with Joseph Eberhardt, whose journey has taken him from the hallways of Pearland schools to the sidelines of the Buffalo Bills and national track teams—and now, back home as a leader in athletic training at Dawson High School. Joseph shares his deep connection to Pearland ISD and what inspired him to return.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and giving back to the community that started it all!

Joseph Eberhardt's email: [email protected]

👉Are you an alum and want to join us on the podcast? Click the link below and give Producer Mac a shout!

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

Dr. Berger welcomes Kim Barfield, the new Pearland ISD Education Foundation Director. With a passion for education and community impact, Kim shares her vision for the foundation and how it continues to support students and teachers across the district.

We’ll dive into the role of the Education Foundation, from funding innovative classroom projects to providing grants that enhance learning experiences. Kim also highlights key fundraising initiatives and ways the community can get involved to make a difference.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, business owner, or community member, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all play a role in shaping the future of Pearland ISD.

Pearland ISD Foundation website: https://www.pearlandisd.org/foundation/about-the-foundation

Kim Barfield'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