More Than A Test

In this episode, host Jennie Tookoian engages in a rich conversation with Dr. Dana Bashara, the superintendent of the Alamo Heights Independent School District in Central San Antonio. Dr. Bashara embodies the belief that education is a heartfelt mission beyond just a career path, infusing her leadership with purpose and personal engagement.

Alamo Heights stands out for its historical roots dating back to 1909 and its strong sense of community, serving 4,800 students across five campuses within a unique, landlocked nine square miles. Dr. Bashara, who has dedicated nearly three decades to the district, shines a light on the district's emphasis on belonging, diversity, and academic excellence, harmoniously balanced with innovative programs like early literacy, a local community-based accountability system, and creative instructional methods from classroom carpet circles to rocketry projects.

Join us as Dr. Bashara shares her experiences and insights into how the district integrates character education, cultural diversity, and community values into a robust educational framework. From supporting teachers with autonomy in their classrooms to engaging students in profound learning experiences, she highlights the importance of listening tours and stay interviews in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Learn about her passionate leadership journey, the influence of mentors, and her relentless pursuit of excellence in shaping a future where education is truly more than a test.

Key Moments

04:53 Alma Heights Staff Student Benefit

06:23 Unexpected Passion for Elm Heights Education

11:21 Community-Driven Educational Decisions

12:53 "Small Community, Big Initiatives"

17:52 Classroom Transformation: Engaging Learning Environments

19:34 Innovative Entrepreneurial and Bilingual Education

25:43 Balancing Leadership and Motherhood

28:01 Gender Differences in Job Applications

32:06 "Championing the Teaching Profession"

35:55 Empowered Teachers, Diverse Classrooms

39:35 Legacy of Passionate Hiring

41:18 Future Reflections on District Impact

43:41 Alamo Heights: Strong Teacher Retention

47:09 "Heartfelt Leadership Conversation"

Connect with Dr. Dana Bashara

Website: https://www.ahisd.net/

Welcome to another episode of "More Than a Test." In this episode, we're excited to have Dr. Micah Studer, executive director of Visions in Education Charter School, share insights into how the school is transforming the educational landscape in California. Visions, an online and homeschool program, serves a wide and diverse student body, focusing on personalized learning and community engagement. Dr. Studer discusses the school's innovative strategies that prioritize strong relationships between teachers, students, and families, creating a supportive and inclusive environment. With stories of student resilience and tailored educational approaches, Dr. Studer illustrates how Visions is preparing students for success in a rapidly evolving world. Join us to learn more about this unique educational model and its impact on student achievement.

Key Moments

04:41 Visions' Pathway to Graduation Success

09:58 "Community and Success in Entrepreneurship"

12:52 Homeschool Community's Diverse Growth

13:55 "Parental Engagement in Homeschooling"

18:50 Teacher Satisfaction Boost from Changes

22:15 LCAP Leadership and Career Growth

24:36 Education's Role as the Great Equalizer

29:38 Ensuring Student Engagement and Support

33:08 "Connectivity's Crucial Last Mile"

35:00 "Launchpad: Streamlined School Tech Access"

38:14 "Academic Progress in Challenging Areas"

42:38 Leveraging Data for Innovation

45:23 LitRPG Book Unites Siblings

48:27 The Importance of Small Talk

50:03 "Importance of Communication in Relationships"

Connect with Dr. Micah Studer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micahstuder/

Website: https://www.viedu.org/

In this episode of "More Than a Test," host Jennie Tookoian sits down with Dr. Matthew Neighbors, the superintendent of Galveston Independent School District (GISD). With nearly two decades of experience in the district, Dr. Neighbors shares his personal journey, discussing the unique qualities of the Galveston community and the exciting educational initiatives under his leadership. The conversation delves into how GISD is embracing AI-powered learning tools, expanding academic opportunities, and addressing teacher retention challenges. Dr. Neighbors highlights the district's commitment to empowering students and fostering a culture of trust and resilience among educators. Tune in to discover how GISD is navigating the evolving landscape of public education in Texas and the innovative programs that make it stand out.

Key Moments

• 04:28 Free College and Job Opportunities
• 08:18 Galveston's Resilient Historical Legacy
• 12:29 "Building Trust with Principals"
• 15:50 Midyear Student Feedback Survey Initiative
• 16:39 Valuing Community and Maximizing Resources
• 19:42 Galveston Teacher Incentive Program
• 23:50 Inspiring Journey of a GISD Teacher
• 28:19 AI Integration in Education Testing
• 29:22 Effective Feedback Boosts Student Growth
• 34:08 Integrated Student Support Database Pilot
• 37:15 Survey Customization Feedback
• 39:19 "Advancing Student Reading Levels"
• 44:00 From Below Average to Top Graduate
• 46:50 Eager for Solar Window Film
• 50:09 Island's Recovery and Welcoming spirit

Connect with Dr. Matthew Neighbors

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-neighbors-edd-39014b31/

Website: https://www.gisd.org/

In this episode of More Than a Test, host Jennie Tookoian welcomes Michelle Patrick, the superintendent of Springfield Clark Career Technology Center in Ohio, to discuss the transformative impact of Career and Technology Education (CTE) on students and communities. As February is Career Technical Education Month, Michelle shares the unique offerings and successes of her institution, which serves the students of Clark County by providing real-world skills and pathways to high-demand careers. From the wide range of programs available—from health sciences to engineering and agriculture—Michelle delves into the critical role of community partnerships, the evolving landscape of CTE, and how these programs equip students to emerge as career, college, and life ready. Whether discussing the challenges of addressing mental health in education or the rewarding experiences of seeing students thrive, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the future of vocational education. Join us to learn how Springfield Clark CTC is breaking stereotypes and creating life-changing opportunities for its students.

Key Moments

05:22 Education & Cosmetology Training Program

07:33 New Facility and Oversubscription Challenges

09:58 School Campus Models and Transportation

15:33 Career Technical Education Vision

16:54 Full Circle: From Learner to Educator

21:40 Vocational School Stereotype Struggle

24:40 Ohio Career Tech Teacher Pathway

28:10 Integrated Curriculum for Practical Learning

29:35 Innovative Education and Whole-Child Focus

34:50 Block Schedule Boosts Academic Focus

37:27 Career Technical Education Rewards

39:10 Youth Anxiety: A Growing Concern

44:17 Transformative Teaching Beyond Testing

46:33 "Find Your Literary Connection"

49:00 Anxious Generation Insights

Connect with Michelle Patrick

Website: https://www.scctc.org/

In this episode of More Than a Test, host Jennie Tookoian converses with Devvon Dettra, the dynamic superintendent of Rolling Hills Local School District in Ohio. Devvon, a Meadowbrook High School alumnus, offers a unique perspective in tackling the distinct challenges and opportunities within small rural school districts. The discussion highlights how Rolling Hills is revolutionizing education through innovative measures such as consolidating into a single, cutting-edge building, promoting teacher collaboration, and expanding resources and technology accessibility.

Tune in as Devvon shares the district's strategic approach to combating poverty, increasing student opportunities through career-tech education, and fostering stronger community engagement. He also reflects on his personal leadership journey, shaped profoundly by his father, a former superintendent. As Devvon outlines his vision for the future—including further efficiency improvements, bolstering early education, and embracing new initiatives—this conversation serves as a treasure trove of insights for educators, administrators, and those passionate about transforming educational landscapes. Join us for an inspiring look at the evolution of education in Rolling Hills with Devvon Dettra guiding the way.

Key Moments

05:27 Unified Elementary Schools Collaboration

09:05 Rural Struggles and Resourcefulness

10:10 Mindshift Needed for Cultural Understanding

13:13 "People-Driven Curriculum Development"

17:41 Creative Hiring for Chemistry Teacher

20:03 Expanding Certifications in Education

24:14 Analyzing Rural District Challenges

25:52 Community Growth Through Youth Sports

30:09 Community Loss, Leadership Shift

33:02 Cultivating Leadership Through Experiential Learning

36:57 Influence Shift in Student Role Models

39:31 Proud of Administrative and Teaching Staff

43:54 "From Encyclopedias to AI"

46:08 "Social Skills Define Success"

Connect with Devvon Dettra

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devvon-dettra-7b28b7175

Website: https://rollinghills.k12.oh.us/

In More Than a Test podcast, host Jennie Tookoian sits down with Ryan Altemeyer, Associate Superintendent of the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, to explore the intersection of technology, operations, and education. With over 12 years of experience in the technology industry and extensive leadership in educational operations, Altemeyer shares how his district is leveraging technology to enhance student learning and operational efficiency.

The conversation delves into the unique challenges and opportunities of serving a diverse student population across Monterey, Marina, and Seaside, California. Altemeyer highlights the district's proactive approach to integrating technology, including early adoption of tools like Gmail and current exploration of AI to improve transparency in budgeting and enhance classroom experiences. 

Tune in to learn how Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is navigating change and building a supportive learning environment for all students.

Key Moments

01:33 – Overview of Monterey Peninsula Unified School District

03:51 – Priorities for Students and the Community

05:08 – Ryan’s Journey into Education Leadership

08:46 – Adoption and Impact of AI in Education

11:27 – Developing Policies for Student Use of AI

13:01 – Transition into Leadership and Influences

18:11 – Unifying Departments Around Student-Centered Goals

22:00 – Funding Priorities and Early Literacy Focus

27:11 – Declining Enrollment and Cost of Living Challenges

30:23 – Teacher Recruitment and Retention Efforts

31:06 – Balancing Technology Innovation and Security

Connect with Ryan Altemeyer

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/altemeyer/

Website: https://www.mpusd.net/

Dr. Svetlana Cvetkovic is a passionate educator, researcher, and founder of Encoding Literacy. Dr. Cvetkovic shares her journey from a childhood love of Nancy Drew's books to becoming a literacy specialist committed to addressing the urgent issue of adult illiteracy in America.

We'll delve into the importance of effectively using test results to improve education, the role of AI in customizing learning materials, and why personalized, evidence-based teaching methods are critical for overcoming reading difficulties. Dr. Cvetkovic will also discuss her innovative speech-first literacy approach and the potential of fMRI technology to advance our understanding of the reading brain.

Join us as we reflect on the importance of early intervention, the challenges faced by struggling readers, and Dr. Cvetkovic's mission to create a joyful and efficient learning environment. We'll also touch on the surprising delays in integrating educational research into practice and the exciting future of the "science of learning." Stay tuned for an inspiring and insightful conversation highlighting effective literacy education's power.

Key Moments

20:29 Depends on the individual's journey and trauma experienced.

24:04 Prioritize prevention in teaching reading and spelling.

28:14 Spelling indicates reading issues and needs attention.

32:20 Need vetted resources, a common understanding among educators.

35:40 Teachers juggle multiple roles and responsibilities daily.

48:00 Maya Angelou's advice: Change or adjust attitude.

50:55 Elderly advocate struggles to improve literacy outcome

Connect with Dr. Svetlana Cvetkovic

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svetlana-cvetkovic-phd-1a161b301/

Website: https://www.encodingliteracy.com/svetlana-cvetkovic

In this episode, we explore MRH’s comprehensive strategic plan, "Honoring our history and shaping our future." We’ll touch on critical issues such as staff retention, made more challenging by the pandemic, and the importance of genuine community engagement that goes beyond simple board meetings. Dr. Jamison will share her reflections on influential books like "Jim Crow's Pink Slip" and "The Anxious Generation," which have shaped her approach to leadership.

Dr. Jamison will also introduce us to MRH’s distinctive "looping" system, aimed at cultivating sustained relationships between students and educators, and the district's move towards competency-based education that values real-world skills over mere test scores. Her leadership involves being a "lead learner," participating in district-wide professional development, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning.

We'll also discuss the financial challenges facing the district, particularly the impact of declining COVID relief funds, and Dr. Jamison's dedication to providing multiple pathways to success for students, ranging from traditional academic routes to career readiness programs and internships.

Key Moments

10:38 Experiences and relationships foster belonging and impact.

12:58 Board prioritizes equity in education decisions.

18:27 Engaging community, showcasing SEL work, board roundtables.

23:22 Local funding crucial; sustaining programs amid challenges.

31:32 Grant to enhance district's competency-based education.

36:57 Mentor vital in career, combating imposter syndrome.

39:02 Emphasize pathways, market assets in education change.

45:05 Reimagining education by prioritizing student-driven learning.

48:44 Opportunity to foster belonging and address turnover.

56:51 Cellphone connects me with distant family.

01:03:29 Explore diverse paths to success, disrupt paradigms.

01:05:39 Honored to speak about dedicated teachers' work.

Connect with Dr.Bonita Jamison

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonita-e-jamison-ed-d-she-her-hers-3971b179/

Website:https://www.mrhschools.net/Page/1

Education is not just about testing; it’s about preparing students for life, with strong relationships and personalized learning.

Jerry Boyd, Superintendent of Washington County Schools in Tennessee, discusses his innovative approach to education with host Jennie Tookoian. He emphasizes the importance of fostering sustainable mentor-student relationships and integrating AI into classrooms to enhance personalized learning. 

Jerry also outlines the district’s efforts to address post-pandemic challenges, particularly social-emotional needs, and introduces the newly implemented K-8 STEM curriculum. Jerry also reflects on his leadership journey, underscoring the value of teamwork and a philosophy of education that goes beyond standardized testing.

Key Moments

05:46 Skills, STEM, career prep.

08:06 Developing leaders.

17:33 Mental wellness focus.

22:30 Support for success.

27:30 AI supports teachers.

33:13 Student voices matter.

Connect with Jerry Boyd

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrysboyd 

Website: https://www.washingtoncountytn.org/ 

Education is more than just a test; it’s about nurturing the whole child and shaping the future.

Sue Lemon, superintendent of Rosedale Union School District in Bakersfield, California. They discuss the challenges of supporting students' social-emotional needs, navigating political pressures, and addressing the ongoing effects of COVID-19.

Sue shares the district's innovative approaches, including the Orton-Gillingham phonics method, Universal Design for Learning, and a focus on restorative practices. She also highlights efforts to close learning gaps, implement full-day kindergarten, and explore AI's role in education. Sue reflects on her personal journey and a symbolic story of a hummingbird representing her father's belief in her.

Key Moments

05:24 Parent education partnership

08:15 Leadership growth

14:28 Behavior expectations

34:13 Preparing thinkers

45:51 Excited for AI in education

Connect with Sue Lemon

Twitter : https://x.com/slemonlemon

Website: https://ca01902710.schoolwires.net