Growing the Forest & the Trees: Big Pictures and Everyday Realities in Education

Schools in Jefferson County are doing things differently. And it all starts with school superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin.

He was named National School Superintendent of the Year in 2025.

Under his leadership, Jefferson County Schools has seen a 357% increase in the number of students that earned industry credentials, indicating that those students possess the qualifications for entry-level employment. 

So how did he do it? We’ll find out today on Growing the Forest and the Trees.

Think back to your schooldays. Were you expected to sit in a neat row of desks? Did you raise your hand when you needed to ask a question?

Matthew Monson is the director of operations, maintenance, and safety for Ozark City Schools. He's also a former teacher and principal. Today on the Growing the Forest and the Trees podcast, he’ll talk about why he encourages teachers to ditch the traditional, regimented classroom and embrace the mess.

Numbers don't lie! On this episode of "Growing the Forest and the Trees," principal Rodney Drish explains how he uses data to help teachers, students, and parents.

Earlier this year, the state of Alabama banned cell phones in public schools, with many saying the phones are a distraction to students. But others say phones should be allowed for educational purposes and in case of emergencies.

Dr. Eric Mackey is the Alabama State Superintendent of Education. He is a lifelong educator and former science teacher. He's in favor of the ban. He'll tell us why and talk about the challenges and opportunities technology presents in public education.

We’re getting to the root of the issues facing educators today, connecting teachers with experts, and finding resources and solutions.

Holli Richardson is the principal at New Brockton Elementary School in New Brockton, Alabama.