In this episode of The Innovator’s Mindset Podcast, George Couros interviews Dr. Matt Frederickson, superintendent of Lincoln County R-III in Missouri. With over 30 years in education, Dr. Frederickson shares actionable strategies for empowering students, supporting educators, and engaging the community to drive lasting school improvement.

How to create a meaningful and rigorous curriculum that focuses on student understanding of the why, not just the what and how.

How to integrate student voice through advisory councils to inform campus design, teaching practices, and school climate improvements.

Why family and community partnerships matter in shaping a shared vision for student success and increased ownership in learning.

How leadership grounded in listening and service can energize both staff and students to strive for excellence.

Ways to align school facilities planning (e.g., bond measures) with student engagement and 21st-century learning goals.

“If students understand the why, then the what and how become much easier.” – Dr. Matt Frederickson

School and district administrators

Curriculum directors and instructional coaches

Teachers focused on student-centered learning

Education leaders interested in strategic planning and community engagement

Learn more about Dr. Matt Frederickson and the Lincoln County R-III School District by visiting their website or following along with George Couros’ updates.

 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and be inspired to rethink what’s possible in education.

“How do we design schools and instruction so the kids understand the why, the what, the how, and the connection…” – Dr. Matt Frederickson

“Student voice helps shape everything from relationships to learning spaces.” – George Couros “    

“If we listen to students, they can tell us quite a bit...students have a thing or two to say about what they’re learning.”  – Dr. Matt Frederickson

Dr. Matt Frederickson LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-frederickson-8b6ba67/

Dr. Matt Frederickson X - https://x.com/lcr3sup

Student Voice Blog Post - https://georgecouros.com/student-voice/ 

Lincoln County R-III YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@LincolnCountyR3Schools