More Than A Test

Innovation in education is more than just a test; it's about shaping the future.  

Dr. Michael Cardona, Superintendent of San Marcos CISD, shares how the district is transforming education through innovative curriculum, AI integration, and strategic partnerships. He discusses the challenges of vouchers, funding, and competition with private schools, as well as a groundbreaking coding pathway for students from low-income and bilingual backgrounds.

Michael also highlights a successful collaboration with Texas State University, providing concurrent enrollment opportunities, and leadership programs designed to nurture internal talent post-COVID. He also reflects on the importance of community engagement, the impact of early college programs, and his personal connection to students and staff.  

Key Moments

08:52 Mentorship pathways.

18:46 Celebrating achievements.

21:50 Post-COVID trust.

29:48 Socratic seminar.

41:19 Community over ego

Connect with Michael Cardona

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michael-cardona-21a51420 

Website: https://www.smcisd.net/ 

Education is not just about what students know, but about who they become  

Dr. Eric Hudspith, the superintendent of Waseca Public Schools in Minnesota, and author of two books:  Culture Driven Leadership and Creating a Culture of Success, has a career that spans from classroom teacher to district leader, He brings a deep understanding of the challenges facing small and rural school districts.  

Dr. Hudspith talks about his deep passion for literacy and the innovative teaching strategies he’s implemented in his district. He also opens up about the importance of teacher retention and the steps being taken to support educators. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the critical role community partnerships play in closing resource gaps and ensuring all students have the support they need to succeed. He also touches on the future of vocational training and shares his thoughts on how empathy-driven leadership can make a real difference in education.

Key Moments

05:29 Ensuring life options for students.

12:30 Interest-based course expansion.

22:27 Improving teacher retention.

32:22 Empathy in leadership.

39:40 Implementing AI tools.

Connect with Eric Hudspith

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-hudspith-458b48a1 

Website: https://www.wasecacounty.gov/ 

“Seeing children as whole individuals goes far beyond standardized tests.”

Mandy Fletcher, Superintendent shares her journey with Blue Earth Area Public Schools. Since 2019, she has faced financial crises, including a failed levy and budget cuts, while implementing innovative changes.

Mandy highlights the introduction of a health science academy connecting students with local healthcare facilities and emphasizes community input, the READ Act's impact on literacy, and support for the growing Hispanic and Latino population.

She also discusses how the pandemic reshaped family-school engagement, leading to creative community events. Tune in to discover how small districts can foster resilience in education by recognizing each child's individuality.

Key Moments

12:47 Transition to coaching.

19:44 College vs. workforce readiness.

26:28 Transformative reading initiative.

41:28 Health science academy ties.

53:42 Beckman on connection.

Connect with Mandy Fletcher

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandy-fletcher-ab1

Website: blueearth.k12.mn.us

“Education is about more than just tests—it's about heart, perseverance, and community.”

Dr. David Lawrence, superintendent of Dayton Public School, reflects on his extensive journey in education, from teaching and coaching to leading as a principal. He shares school leadership's emotional and physical demands and his dedication to teacher retention through competitive pay and support systems.

As Dayton’s first locally-born superintendent, Dr. Lawrence has a deep personal connection to the community and discusses key projects under his leadership, such as the Welcome Stadium renovation. He emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership and building stable educational environments, and he has a vision for elevating Dayton schools to new heights through strategic planning and commitment to long-term success.

Key Moments

04:53 $21M for Transportation, Ongoing Litigation

14:47 Importance of Bonuses for Teacher Retention

17:27 Success of Education in Jackson, Mississippi

22:13 Celebrating Dunbar's Legacy as First Black High School

41:45 Embracing Authentic Opportunities

Connect with Dr. David Lawrence

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-e-lawrence

Website: https://dps.k12.oh.us/ 

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD 

“Education is the foundation for equity, and every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.”

Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, brings extensive experience in proactive leadership and community engagement. In this episode of "More Than A Test", he discusses the challenges and successes in transforming education in Colorado’s largest district. He shares his initiatives, such as forming a task force for local educational issues and establishing Community Hubs to support students and families. 

Dr.Marrero highlights the complexities of navigating political and financial pressures while advocating for marginalized communities. Through innovative approaches and a commitment to seeing the potential in every student, Dr. Marrero offers valuable insights into empathetic and responsive educational leadership. Join us as we explore his vision for the future of education.

Key Moments

07:03 Impact of City Violence

16:52 Growth Before Proficiency

24:58 Success Through Engagement

41:00 Challenges of Rigid Education

44:16 Effects of School Closures

52:50 Pursuit of Equity

Connect with Dr. Alex Marrero

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

Website: https://www.dpsk12.org/ 

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD

“Education is not just about tests and grades; it's about building meaningful connections and nurturing growth”

Dana Addis, superintendent of Hudson City Schools talks about the impact of the Service Learning Program, the challenges of the teacher hiring process, and innovative projects like "Helping Hands."He discusses the district's obstacles, the crucial role of safety, and the importance of community and business partnerships.

Dana shares his journey from teacher and coach to superintendent, his leadership philosophy, and the benefits of personalized education and social-emotional learning. Dana’s stories about his favorite literature, coaching lessons, and his commitment to connecting with students and staff. 

Key Moments

 07:10  Community Support for School Initiatives

 11:37  3D Prosthetics Sent to Tanzania

 17:22  Superintendent’s Active Engagement

 37:06  Enhancing Education with AI

 42:00  Teacher’s Role in Igniting a Writing Passion

Connect with Dana Addis

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-addis-1b70604b 

Website: https://www.hudson.k12.oh.us/ 

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD 

“Ultimately, we don't want a society of people who are mediocre with all their flaws. We want people who are amazing at science.”

Ryan Baker, an expert in AI and education, for a conversation that challenges perceptions and sparks personal growth. Ryan shares his method of spending 30 minutes daily learning something outside of his work, an approach that has inspired Laura. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping the classroom, providing immediate feedback for students and enhancing learning processes. 

From writing feedback to asset-based assessments, Ryan provides a thought-provoking look into the future of education and the balanced role AI can play.

Key Moments

00:00:03 - Daily learning habit

00:01:05 - AI in education

00:02:15 - Fast feedback in class

00:04:38 - Limits of AI

00:06:30 - Screen time discussion

00:09:09 - How to choose EdTech

00:16:52 - Future of AI in school

00:22:41 - Class size and AI

00:25:35 - AI helping teachers

00:26:06 - Building on students’ strengths

Connect with Ryan Baker

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-baker-36567482

Website: https://www.upenn.edu/

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD

“It's just more expensive to raise children, and so people move out to the suburbs”

Dr. Shawn Bird, Deputy Superintendent of San Antonio Schools, discusses significant changes in the district, including the recent closure of 14 elementary schools and the efforts to serve over 45,000 students across more than 100 schools. Dr. Bird addresses the community's reaction to these closures, the strategic decisions behind them, and innovative solutions like improved mental health support and special education services. 

He shares insights from his extensive career in urban education, the effects of lower funding in Texas compared to other states, and his dual role in overseeing school leadership and academic services. The conversation explores urban enrollment declines, demographic shifts, and the unique challenges faced by San Antonio's district. Dr. Bird also reflects on his journey, passion for teaching, and views on educational leadership.

Key Moments

00:00 Equity and Student Services

04:12 Demographics and School Closures

08:25 Mentor Reunion in San Antonio

13:32 COVID’s Impact on Performance

23:13 Aspiring Superintendent Role

Connect with Dr. Shawn Bird

Website: https://www.saisd.net/

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD 

“Educating teachers, parents, and students about AI is paramount for the future of education.”

Jeremy Roschelle is a renowned expert in AI and education with extensive experience in promoting AI literacy. Jeremy has conducted groundbreaking research on AI applications in educational settings and is known for his insights into the integration of AI tools in schools.

In this episode, he shares his expertise on the importance of AI education, the challenges of implementing AI in classrooms, and how to balance conceptual understanding with practical solutions. Jeremy also discusses AI’s potential to foster equity, particularly for English language learners, and explores innovative uses of AI, such as optimizing school systems.

Key Moments

00:00  AI Needs Complex Options

05:20  Tech Lacking for Math Teachers

11:09  AI Literacy Essential for Teachers

18:52  Equity Needs Effort

28:59  Physics Passion Leads to Cognitive Science

Connect with Jeremy Roschelle

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-roschelle/ 

Website: https://digitalpromise.org/ 

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD 

“Interoperability in education is as crucial as hot water pipes in a building's infrastructure—the system needs to function seamlessly.“

In today’s episode, Erin Mote, co-founder of Brooklyn Lab and a leader at InnovateEDU, dives into the transformative power of connecting organizations with school districts. She sheds light on the pivotal role of interoperability, privacy, and accessibility in EdTech.

Erin recounts her experiences, from supporting military families to advancing special education, and explores the potential of AI in education. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the importance of evidence-based solutions for driving progress.

Timestamps

03:51  Solving educational challenges for military and transient kids.

06:47  InnovateEDU creates change through alliances.

16:10  Evaluating edtech: privacy, security, and interoperability.

27:36  Innovative education model implemented in Brooklyn Lab.

30:03  Incredibly diverse school with 20% JJ involvement.

37:28  Using technology for real-time student assessment.

Connect with Erin Mote

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

Website: https://www.innovateedunyc.org/

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0. 

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543. 

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/ 

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or at home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/ 

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Visit Amira Learning: https://www.amiralearning.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amira-learning 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amira-learning

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amira_learning/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Amira-Learning-App-100064672554061/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmiraLearning 

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD