Future Pathways Superintendents Unplugged

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 8 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring David Feliciano and Deann Ragsdale, Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent, respectively, of La Mesa-Spring Valley School District. 

Backgrounds and Roles

• David Feliciano shares his excitement about working at La Mesa Spring Valley, emphasizing the supportive community and staff.
• Deann Ragsdale discusses her long tenure with the district and her commitment to staying due to the positive culture and community focus.
• David and Deann reflect on their career paths, with David being inspired by leadership books and Deann being genetically predisposed to education due to her family background.
• Both discuss the importance of having good leaders and role models in their careers.

Leadership and Culture in Education

• David and Deann discuss the impact of culture on leadership, emphasizing the importance of trust, conflict resolution, and teamwork.
• David shares his leadership style, influenced by Pat Lencioni's book "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," and how it has shaped his approach to school leadership.
• Deann highlights the significance of having a supportive and collaborative culture, especially in labor relations and bargaining.
• Both emphasize the importance of authenticity, shared motivations, and understanding the mission-oriented work in schools.

Challenges and Strategies in School Leadership

• David and Deann discuss the challenges of leading in a politically charged environment and the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive culture.
• Deann talks about the importance of ownership and leadership at all levels, with everyone contributing to the success of students.
• David shares his approach to building a team of like-minded leaders who share his vision and values.
• Both emphasize the importance of vulnerability, accountability, and continuous learning in their leadership styles.

Mental Health and Support in Schools

• David and Deann discuss the impact of the pandemic on mental health and the importance of providing support to staff and students.
• They highlight their partnership with UCSD to offer mindfulness practices and classes to help staff and students manage stress and emotional well-being.
• Deann mentions the support from the Board and community in providing mental health resources and early intervention programs.
• Both emphasize the cyclical nature of support, where a supportive environment leads to better student engagement and behavior, which in turn supports teachers.

Community and Board Support

• Deann praises the supportive Board at La Mesa-Spring Valley, which focuses on students, community, and staff well-being.
• She highlights various grants and partnerships that have helped provide mental health support, full-time counselors, and social workers in schools.
• David and Deann discuss the importance of community support and how it contributes to the overall success of the district.
• They emphasize the role of community schools in providing comprehensive support to students and families.

Addressing Safety Concerns in a Divided Culture

• David and Deann discuss the fear and concerns about school safety in the current political climate.
• They emphasize the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive community where staff and students feel safe and valued.
• Deann talks about the importance of celebrating wins and creating a culture of belonging to counteract external noise and fear.
• Both highlight the role of neighborhood schools in providing a sense of safety and community for families and students.

Celebrating Success and Changing Perceptions

• Deann and David discuss the importance of celebrating small successes and moments of joy to counteract negative perceptions of schools.
• They emphasize the need to change the narrative about schools and highlight the positive work being done in La Mesa-Spring Valley.
• Deann encourages thanking educators for their hard work and dedication to students.
• David highlights the importance of positive education being presented in the media to change perceptions and support public schools.

Personal Interests and Passions

• David shares his passion for music and his past experience in a punk band, emphasizing his love for music and attending shows.
• Deann mentions her past experience singing in a talent show and her love for music, though she does not currently sing.
• Both discuss their shared interest in music and how it contributes to their personal and professional lives.
• The conversation highlights the importance of personal interests and passions in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• David and Deann reiterate the importance of changing perceptions about public schools and highlighting the positive work being done.
• They encourage listeners to support educators and schools by thanking them and being involved in their communities.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 7 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have a very special and powerful episode featuring three incredible women leaders in education: Dr. Leighangela Brady the Superintendent of the National School District, Dr. Kristin Baranski, the Superintendent of the Santee School District, and Dr. Lisbeth Johnson, the revered former Superintendent of the Santee School District.  

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 


Guest Introductions and Backgrounds

• Drew Schlosberg asks the guests about their tenures and previous roles.
• Dr. Leighangela Brady shares her nine-year tenure at National School District and her previous roles in Encinitas Union School District and Santee.
• Dr. Lisbeth Johnson discusses her 10-year tenure at Santee, her previous roles in Walnut School District, Cajon Valley School District, and South Bay Union School District.
• Dr. Kristen Baranski talks about her 26-year involvement with Santee, starting as a teacher and vice principal, and her current eight-year tenure as Superintendent.

Mentorship and Leadership in Education

• Drew and the guests discuss the importance of mentorship in their careers.
• Dr. Johnson shares her experience with her mentor, Dr. Ron Hockwalt, and the impact of his guidance on her leadership style.
• Dr. Brady credits Dr. Lizbeth Johnson as her first mentor in Santee, highlighting the trust and relationship-building aspects of their mentorship.
• Dr. Baranski emphasizes the role of mentorship in her career, particularly from Dr. Lisbeth Johnson, and how it has shaped her leadership approach.

Challenges and Future Prospects in Education

• The guests discuss the challenges facing teachers, students, and parents, including the impact of technology, mental health, and political divisions.
• Dr. Johnson highlights the need for effective communication and problem-solving skills in today's technological age.
• Dr. Baranski addresses the mental health needs of students and teachers, emphasizing the importance of play-based learning and communication skills.
• Dr. Brady discusses the challenges of navigating a divided political environment and teaching students to communicate despite differing viewpoints.

Personal Reflections and Future Plans

• Dr. Johnson shares her current role as a consultant and interim vice president of corporate work study at a school, emphasizing her commitment to the mission of education.
• The guests reflect on the importance of mentorship and the ongoing support they provide to each other and their communities.
• Drew thanks the guests for their time and contributions, highlighting the positive impact they have on their students, parents, and the broader community.
• The show concludes with a reminder of the collaboration between Cloudcast Media, the Classroom of the Future Foundation, the Center for Educational Innovation, and Schools First Federal Credit Union.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 6 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another great conversation, this time featuring Dr. Patrick Keeley.  The Superintendent of the Mountain Empire Unified School District.  

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 

Introduction of Dr. Patrick Keeley

• Dr. Keeley shares his background, mentioning that he has been in the district for 10 years and has been the superintendent for five years.
• He recounts his personal history with the district, including his childhood in Descanso and his high school experience at Mountain Empire High School.
• Dr. Keeley reflects on how his high school experience shaped his values and approach to education.

Challenges of Small Districts and Media Coverage

• Dr. Keeley discusses a recent Union Tribune article that highlighted the challenges of small, rural districts like his.
• Dr. Keeley describes the challenges of chronic absenteeism in the district, including the impact of weather and geographical conditions on student attendance.
• He shares an anecdote about a student making a documentary on the conditions of the schools, which was featured in the article.

Impact of Weather and Power Outages

• Dr. Keeley explains how recent Santa Ana winds and subsequent power outages have affected the district's operations.
• He describes the difficulties of managing transportation and ensuring student safety during extreme weather conditions.
• The impact of cold weather on students living in trailers and homes without fireplaces is highlighted.
• Dr. Keeley mentions the loss of school days due to weather and power shutoffs, and the challenges of making up these days within the school calendar.

Funding and Facility Challenges in Small Districts

• Dr. Keeley discusses the financial challenges faced by small, rural districts in maintaining and modernizing school facilities.
• He explains the high costs of building and maintaining schools compared to residential construction.
• The reliance on local school bonds for funding and the inequities in tax burdens between rural and urban areas are discussed.
• Dr. Keeley mentions the impact of wildfire insurance costs on local taxpayers and the difficulty in passing bonds in rural areas.

Efforts to Address Funding and Facility Needs

• Dr. Keeley describes the district's efforts to hire a grant writer to help access additional funding.
• He shares the challenges of attracting and retaining educators in rural areas due to limited resources and higher transportation costs.
• The district's strategy of demonstrating financial hardship to access matching funds for rebuilding schools is discussed.
• Dr. Keeley emphasizes the importance of advocating for the district and working with local lawmakers and the Small School Districts Association.

Personal Goals and the Role of Music in Education

• Dr. Keeley talks about the importance of setting personal goals for principals and staff, including pursuing hobbies and interests.
• He shares his love for music and the district's efforts to build a music program, despite limited resources.
• An example of a student-driven Norteno music program is shared, highlighting the importance of student interests in school activities.
• Dr. Keeley reflects on the therapeutic benefits of music and the importance of creating memorable experiences for students.

The Role of AI in Education and the Need for Time

• Dr. Keeley discusses the rapid advancement of AI and the challenges teachers face in integrating it into their teaching.
• He emphasizes the need for teachers to have more time to plan, assess, and collaborate, rather than feeling overwhelmed by the pace of technological change.
• The potential benefits of a four-day school week and expanded learning opportunities for both students and teachers are explored.
• Dr. Keeley suggests that a more flexible approach to school schedules could improve teacher satisfaction and student learning outcomes.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

• Dr. Keeley reflects on the broader societal challenges facing education, including the rapid pace of information and the need for time and support for teachers.
• He emphasizes the importance of reimagining the education system to better support teachers and students.
• Dr. Keeley expresses gratitude for the support of organizations like the Classroom of the Future Foundation and the Center for Educational Innovation.
• The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of supporting small, rural districts and the unique challenges they face.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another great conversatio, this time featuring Dr. Brian Thurman, Superintendent of Ramona Unified School District.  

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 


Pathways and Personalized Learning

• Dr. Thurman talks about the community's support and the expertise within the district.
• The conversation shifts to the district's focus on technology and personalized learning.
• Dr. Thurman shares the success of their Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, including a national gold medal win in the Concepts of Engineering category.
• The district's efforts to appeal to students' interests and provide opportunities for college, career, and work are highlighted.

Early Career and Educational Journey

• Dr. Thurman recounts his early career influences, including key teachers who supported him.
• He shares his academic background, including a sociology major and his early experiences in public schools.
• Dr. Thurman discusses his decision to become an educator and his journey through student teaching and becoming a principal.
• The conversation covers his 12 years as a principal and the impact of dynamic superintendents on his career.

Technology and Personalized Learning in Practice

• Dr. Thurman elaborates on the District's CTE pathways, including culinary, engineering, and construction.
• He highlights the success of their students in national competitions and the hard work of the staff.
• The discussion includes the District's efforts to provide students with options and opportunities for the future.
• Dr. Thurman mentions the partnership with Palomar Community College for dual enrollment programs.

Community Support and Partnerships

• Dr. Thurman discusses the community's positive feedback and support for the district's pathways.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of rural districts and the district's efforts to pass a bond for facility improvements.
• Dr. Thurman emphasizes the importance of community trust and the potential benefits of passing a small bond to raise capital for important District projects and needs
• The discussion includes the district's partnerships with local businesses and the importance of internships and externships for students.

Challenges and Future Goals

• Dr. Thurman talks about the financial challenges faced by the district, including the need for facility upgrades.
• The conversation covers the district's efforts to navigate the budget cliff and the importance of community support.
• Dr. Thurman highlights the district's focus on cybersecurity and the steps taken to protect data and systems.
• The discussion includes the potential for a cybersecurity pathway and the importance of preparing students for the future.

Personal Interests and Final Thoughts

• Dr. Thurman shares his personal interests, including surfing and playing drums.
• The conversation includes his family's annual trip to Mexico Beach and their unplugged experience.
• Dr. Thurman expresses gratitude for the partnership with Schools First Federal Credit Union and the support from the community.
• The episode concludes with a thank you to the sponsors and a reminder of the challenges and opportunities ahead for the district.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 4 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another incredible episode, this time featuring not one, not two, but THREE Superintendents in studio.  Drew Schlosberg was joined by Greg Mizel, the Interim Superintendent of Poway Unified School District.  Mr. Mizel has over 30 years experience in public education, 20 of those in the Poway Unified School District. Prior to his current position, he has been the Associate Superintendent of Student Support Services, an Assistant Superintendent, the Founding Principal of Del Norte High School, and Principal of Mesa Verde Middle School. He was recently named Counseling Administrator of the Year by the San Diego County Office of Education and Student Support Services Administrator of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators.

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 

Overview of Poway Unified School District

• Greg provides an overview of Poway Unified, describing it as the third-largest district in the county with 34,500 students across 41 campuses.
• He discusses the challenges of declining enrollment and its impact on the District's finances.
• Greg shares a story about the District's staff, many of whom are former students, highlighting the multi-generational nature of the community.
• Drew and Greg discuss the District's strong culture and the pride in its history and achievements.

Greg Mizel's Journey into Education

• Greg recounts his unconventional pathway into education, starting with his struggles in high school and his journey to college.
• He shares how his roommate at Christian Heritage College, a valedictorian, inspired him to strive for more.
• Greg describes his early teaching experiences, focusing on building relationships with disengaged students and coaching sports.
• He emphasizes the importance of having role models and the impact of high expectations on student motivation.

Innovative Special Education Initiatives

• Greg discusses his role in special education at Poway, focusing on creating inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities.
• He highlights the challenges of reducing specialized programs and the importance of challenging all students to rise.
• Greg shares his belief that every child is capable of more than what adults often assume.
• Drew and Greg discuss the importance of training and educating classroom teachers to support students with disabilities.

Mental Health and Student Wellness

• Greg addresses the mental health crisis in schools, noting its prevalence before and especially amplified by the pandemic.
• He recounts the impact of the Parkland, Florida, shooting on his students' demands for more mental health support.
• Greg describes the steps Poway Unified took to address mental health, including adding tiered supports 
• He expresses concern about the sustainability of these initiatives as one-time funds dry up.

Family Empowerment and Parental Involvement

• Greg emphasizes the importance of parents as the most influential people in their children's lives 
• He discusses the "What I Wish My Parents Knew" program, which involves student-led breakout sessions to share their perspectives with parents.
• Greg highlights the impact of these sessions on parental understanding and behavior.
• Greg discusses the "Herman's Way" project, which pairs students with supportive adults
• He shares his personal experience with fostering and adopting children, emphasizing the role of trauma in shaping behavior.

Challenges and Opportunities in Education

• Greg identifies the increasing complexity of the teaching profession and the challenges of personalizing learning experiences.
• He discusses the impact of declining enrollment and the need to adapt to new grade levels, such as Transitional Kindergarten (TK).
• Greg highlights the importance of affirming teachers and the need for parental support and communication.
• He shares his belief that every person has the opportunity to make a difference in a child's life, regardless of their profession.

Support for Schools and Final Thoughts

• Greg encourages parents to send thank you notes to teachers and to be involved in their children's education.
• He shares his personal story of adopting two foster children and the challenges they face due to trauma.
• Greg emphasizes the need for patience and understanding in supporting students with complex backgrounds.
• Drew and Greg discuss the importance of community support and the role of businesses in partnering with schools.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 3 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another incredible episode, this time featuring not one, not two, but THREE Superintendents in studio.  Drew Schlosberg was joined by Dr. Leighangela Brady, National School District, Dr. Jennifer Burks, Solana Beach School District, and Dr. Tim Baird, former Superintendent for Encinitas Union School District and currently the Board Chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation.  

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 

The discussion features three Superintendents—Dr. Leighangela Brady, Dr. Jennifer Burks, and Dr. Tim Baird—discussing their efforts to integrate sustainability and environmental literacy into their school districts. Dr. Brady highlights National School District's initiatives, including becoming the first elementary-only heart-safe district and focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Burks shares Solana Beach School District's projects, such as outdoor learning hubs and partnerships with UCSD. Dr. Baird introduces SD3, a network aiming to support local school districts in sustainability efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and leadership. The conversation underscores the benefits of sustainable practices in education, including cost savings and student engagement.


Sustainability and SD3 Network

• Dr. Tim Baird introduces the concept of SD3 (San Diego School Districts and Sustainability and Diversity) and its goals to support sustainability efforts in local school districts.
• Tim explains the three levels of networks: local, state, and national, and the benefits of connecting districts for technical expertise and support.
• Jennifer Burks shares Solana Beach School District's sustainability initiatives, including outdoor learning hubs, partnerships with UCSD, and food audits with local organizations.
• Leighangela Brady discusses National School District's efforts to integrate sustainability into their systems, such as low-flush toilets, food sorting, and student engagement in real-world problems.

Challenges and Future of SD3 Network

• Jennifer Burks highlights the need for interdisciplinary units and funding as key challenges.
• Leighangela Brady discusses the potential pushback from the new political landscape and the importance of a strong network for support.
• Tim Baird emphasizes the need for leadership buy-in and the potential for SD3 to serve as a model for other regions.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps for SD3

• Jennifer Burks expresses excitement about the possibilities of connecting learning to real-life experiences and the potential for collaboration with neighboring districts.
• Lee Angela Brady looks forward to building a network and learning from other districts' efforts.
• Tim Baird discusses the importance of spreading sustainable practices and the need for support from state and national levels.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 2 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another incredible episode, this time featuring not one, but TWO Superintendents in studio.  Drew Schlosberg was joined by Dr. Leighangela Brady, the leader of the National School District and Ron McCowan, who leads the Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District. 

Listen in as Dr. Brady and Ron McCowan discussed their roles as superintendents and their commitment to student voice and leadership. Brady, from National School District, highlighted her initiative with sixth graders to address community issues like Tijuana river pollution and cardiac awareness, emphasizing their active participation in decision-making. McCowan, from Valley Center-Pauma Unified, focused on developing servant leadership among students, starting from fifth grade. Both emphasized the importance of student confidence and leadership skills, with Brady suggesting a leadership conference involving student presenters and McCowan proposing mini-leadership conferences. They also discussed challenges like poverty, housing insecurity, and the impact of technology on students' mental health

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 

Early Career and Inspiration

• Dr. Brady discusses her epiphany to pursue education, influenced by mentors at Escondido High School who prioritized students and community.
• Dr. Brady describes her initial teaching and coaching roles, which led her to administrative positions, ultimately becoming a superintendent.
• Dr. Brady shares her initial career goal to become a dentist, her struggle with college science, and her eventual switch to education.
• Dr. Brady emphasizes the gradual progression in her career and her desire to have a broader impact on students through administrative roles.
• Ron McCowan talks about his early career in education, his transition from teaching to administration, and his belief in the importance of leadership and community involvement.

Student Voice and Leadership

• Dr. Brady and Ron McCowan discuss the concept of student voice, emphasizing the importance of students taking ownership of their learning and decision-making.
• Dr. Brady defines student voice as active participation in finding solutions and having their ideas implemented by adults.
• Ron McCowan relates student voice to leadership, using sports analogies to explain how students can lead and influence their peers and school culture.
• Dr. Brady describes her superintendent student roundtable, where sixth-grade students work on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and take leadership roles in their schools.
• Ron McCowan discusses the servant leadership model and the importance of training students to be leaders who serve their peers and community.

Challenges and Future Directions

• Dr. Brady highlights the challenges of high poverty, English learners, foster youth, and homelessness in her district and the need for economic growth and career opportunities.
• Ron McCowan discusses the challenges of cell phone distraction, mental health issues, and finding meaningful careers for students.
• Both superintendents emphasize the importance of teaching leadership skills and providing opportunities for students to develop and practice these skills.
• Dr. Brady suggests the idea of a leadership conference with student presenters and the involvement of organizations like the Classroom of the Future Foundation and Schools First Federal Credit Union.
• Ron McCowan supports the idea of a leadership conference and emphasizes the need for guest speakers and support from organizations to make these events successful.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• Dr. Brady encourages attendance at the upcoming "Supe Tank" event at USD, where innovative ideas for student voice and leadership will be presented.
• Ron McCowan emphasizes the importance of teaching leadership skills and the impact it can have on students' lives and communities.
• Drew Schlosberg thanks the superintendents for their time and contributions to the conversation on student voice and leadership.
• The episode concludes with a reminder of the collaboration between Cloudcast Media, the Classroom of the Future Foundation, the Center for Educational Innovation, and Schools First Federal Credit Union.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an incredible Superintendent to kick off the new season.  Actually, quite fitting for the first episode as we have the first female Superintendent of the San Diego County Office of Education, Dr. Gloria Ciriza.  

Listen in as Dr. Ciriza, a 30 year champion of educational equity, discusses her mission to create a culture of belonging in schools. She emphasizes the importance of addressing poverty through social inclusion and highlights the role of schools as community hubs. Dr. Ciriza outlines the office's support for 43 districts, including teacher credentialing and fiscal resources. She addresses chronic absenteeism as a key challenge, advocating for community engagement and co-creation. Dr. Ciriza stresses the need for intentional design in schools to foster a sense of belonging, drawing from research by John Powell and Susie Wise.

Here's a summary of the insightful and impactful conversation with Dr. Gloria Ciriza: 

Dr. Gloria Ciriza's Background and Role

• Dr. Ciriza shares her excitement and gratitude for her new role, emphasizing the community's support.
• She describes her previous role as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Programs, focusing on student mental health, wellness, safety, and special education.
• Dr. Ciriza highlights the importance of the community school strategy and the support provided to vulnerable children through juvenile court and community school programs.
• She discusses the preparation and perspective gained from her previous role, which has helped her in her current position.

Role of the County Office of Education

• Dr. Ciriza explains the role of the County Office of Education in supporting all 43 school districts in San Diego County.
• The office provides services such as teacher credentialing, professional development, and fiscal resources.
• She mentions the importance of supporting small school districts, which may not have the infrastructure of larger districts.
• Dr. Ciriza shares her plans to visit small districts like Mountain Empire to understand their needs and provide support.

North Star Goal and Community Schools

• Dr. Ciriza discusses the North Star goal of addressing poverty through an educational lens, focusing on social exclusion rather than material wealth.
• She emphasizes the role of schools in creating a culture where students and families feel they belong.
• The concept of community schools is introduced, where schools act as hubs for various community services and activities.
• Dr. Ciriza highlights the importance of celebrating the cultural diversity within the county and bringing communities together around these differences.

Personal Journey and Teaching Passion

• Dr. Ciriza shares her personal journey, starting as a teacher and being inspired by friends to pursue higher education.
• She attended Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania, known for its teacher education programs.
• After teaching in Mexico City, she returned to San Diego and began her administrative career.
• Dr. Ciriza encourages teachers to step into new opportunities with courage and passion, emphasizing the importance of being open to growth and leadership roles.

Creating a Culture of Belonging

• Dr. Ciriza discusses the importance of creating a culture of belonging, starting with self-reflection and recognizing personal biases.
• She mentions the book "Designed for Belonging" by Susie Wise, which provides insights into creating inclusive environments.
• Dr. Ciriza emphasizes the role of relationships and environment in fostering a sense of belonging.
• She highlights the need for intentional design in creating spaces that make people feel welcome and valued.

Challenges and Strategies for Addressing Chronic Absenteeism

• Dr. Ciriza identifies chronic absenteeism as a significant challenge and discusses strategies to address it.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes and working with districts to implement best practices.
• Dr. Ciriza shares her recent meeting with the Office of Youth and Community Restoration to study the issue of chronic absenteeism.
• She stresses the need for community engagement and co-creation in designing solutions to support student attendance.

Importance of Community Engagement

• Dr. Ciriza encourages community members to engage with local schools and participate in community events.
• She highlights the role of community support in creating a positive school environment and addressing challenges.
• Dr. Ciriza emphasizes the importance of showing up for schools and being part of the school community.
• She shares her vision of schools as hubs for community activities and support, benefiting both students and the broader community.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

• Dr. Ciriza thanks the audience for their support and emphasizes the collective responsibility to care for children.
• She encourages listeners to focus on relationships with children in their lives and support their aspirations.
• Dr. Ciriza highlights the importance of professional and community engagement in creating a supportive environment for children.
• She concludes by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share her vision and work, and encourages continued support and collaboration.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

In this next episode of Season 2 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged", you'll hear from Dr. David Miyashiro, Superintendent of the Cajon Valley Union School District, during his conversation with the Host, Drew Schlosberg.  

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 2 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/

In this next episode of Season 2 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged", you'll hear from Jill Vinson, Superintendent of the Cardiff School District, during her conversation with the Host, Drew Schlosberg.  

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 2 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/