Today, we spoke with the Commissioner of Education for the state of Kansas, Dr. Randy Watson. As he begins to let the sun set on a 45-year-long career, he spent time with us reflecting on and pondering the past, present, and future of education. He shared heartfelt stories meant to inspire and a few funny ones. Whether you're a student yourself, a pre-service educator, a teacher, or an administrator, you're sure to connect with his touching, powerful, and sometime hilarious anecdotes about a lifetime in education.

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Today's conversation is with Dr. Stephanie Bannister. Stephanie is the director of FirstGen Forward, a non-profit whose mission is to foster success for first-generation college students. In this episode, Stephanie explains the ways in which helping first-generation college students succeed actually helps all students succeed and how learners and educators both benefit when teachers process their interactions, instruction, and class culture-building through a first-generation lens.

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In this episode of the EDCATS EDCAST, veteran educator Angie Messer shares why building strong, lasting connections with students is at the heart of meaningful learning. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience as a teacher and administrator, she reflects on the journey that shaped her relationship-centered approach to education. Angie also offers practical insights to help educators create classrooms where students feel seen, valued, and supported.

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