On the Clock

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Dr. Gabriella Duran-Blakey, Superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools, to explore how she is transforming one of the largest and most diverse school districts in the nation. Overseeing more than 140 schools and 12,000 employees, Dr. Blakey discusses her ambitious strategic plan aimed at improving outcomes for 68,000 students across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Dr. Blakey outlines four key goals shaping the district’s future: boosting third-grade reading and eighth-grade math proficiency, aligning high school programs with real-world career paths, and teaching essential social-emotional skills like perseverance and self-regulation. She shares how the district is embracing the science of reading, leveraging lessons from Mississippi’s turnaround, and expanding access to music and the arts to support cognitive development.

He reflects on the challenges of serving such a vast and varied student population, especially those impacted by poverty and housing insecurity while emphasizing the importance of local leadership, community partnerships, and innovation. From Genius Hour to career academies, she details how APS is reimagining education to meet students where they are and prepare them for wherever they’re going.

Timestamps

03:12 Addressing Educational Inequities in Albuquerque

07:20 "Adopting Mississippi's Reading Strategies"

11:29 "Math Enthusiast's Teaching Dilemma"

15:35 Diversifying Student Career Paths

19:18 Creative Skill Building in Schools

21:14 Pride in Community Commitment

Connect with Dr. Gabriella Duran-Blakey

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

Website: https://www.aps.edu/ 

In this episode of On The Clock, Strategos Partner and host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Dr. Karen Molinar, Superintendent of the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), for a dynamic conversation about education’s evolving role in a rapidly changing Texas. With over 27 years of experience in the district, Dr. Molinar brings deep institutional knowledge and a forward-thinking vision to the table.

Together, they explore how Fort Worth’s explosive growth—now one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S.—is driving demand for a future-ready workforce. Dr. Molinar discusses how FWISD is meeting that challenge head-on by aligning career and technical education (CTE), early college high schools, and industry partnerships with the city's expanding economic sectors, including technology, automotive, HVAC, and even film production, thanks to the local presence of producer Taylor Sheridan.

The episode also delves into the power of community collaboration. From FWISD’s work with three city chambers and a mayor’s council, to its groundbreaking partnership with Tarrant County College and the city-backed T3 initiative, Dr. Molinar explains how the district is preparing students, many from underrepresented backgrounds—for high-wage, high-demand careers without the burden of student debt.

Dr. Molinar’s personal story, leadership philosophy, and belief in the potential of every student underscore a powerful message: when schools and communities work in unison, education becomes the engine of opportunity. If you're an educator, policymaker, or parent, this episode is a masterclass in how to lead a district with heart, strategy, and purpose.

Key Moments

05:51 Tech-Focused CTE Reevaluation Plan

07:16 "Building Community and Career Pathways"

11:20 "Successful College Partnerships Expansion"

13:15 First-Generation Graduation Inspires

18:32 Diversifying Experiences: Sports & Education

21:13 Community Support for Fort Worth Schools

22:44 Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Interview

Connect with Dr. Karen Molinar

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-molinar-86a753b2

Website: https://www.fwisd.org/

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb welcomes Dr. Charles Hulme, professor emeritus at Oxford University and one of the foundational voices behind the modern Science of Reading movement. With wit, humility, and deep scientific insight, Dr. Hulme traces the origins of the now widely adopted phrase “science of reading,” and explores how decades of research into how children learn to read are reshaping classrooms worldwide.

Dr. Hulme discusses the cognitive mechanics behind literacy—drawing clear distinctions between reading for decoding and reading for comprehension—and explains why phonics remains a non-negotiable starting point for literacy instruction. He also dives into the emotional and lifelong consequences of reading struggles, particularly how early language deficits can spiral into academic underachievement, social isolation, and mental health issues.

The episode goes beyond theory. Hulme describes his work with OxEd, the Oxford University spinout he founded to bring evidence-based reading and language tools into schools. With over two-thirds of English schools using their assessments, OxEd exemplifies how rigorous research can drive practical, scalable solutions in education.

Todd and Dr. Hulme also touch on everything from educational funding in the UK to regional accents in America—ending with a heartwarming childhood anecdote about a chance encounter with a shoe repairman who sparked young Charles’s fascination with psychology.

Key Moments

04:39 Oxford Experience and Educational Journey

07:03 Rethinking Dyslexia: Language Roots

12:52 Dyslexia Severity Compared to Hypertension

14:15 Oxford Research Spinout Company

19:44 "Advocating Science in Education"

22:50 Early Encounter with Psychology

26:11 Language Development in Babies

28:28 "Honoring Charles' Educational Impact"

Connect with Dr. Charles Hulme

LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/charles-hulme-7a1846165

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Learn more about Strategos Group: https://www.strategosgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategos-group-public-affairs/

🚨 Subscribe to the Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@strategospodcastnetwork

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PODCASTS

🎧 Capital Class with Adam Giery: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast

🎧 On the Clock with Todd Dallas Lamb: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-the-clock

🎧 Swimming Upstream with Tom Luna: https://swimming-upstream.captivate.fm/listen

🎧 On Balance with Dr. Rod Berger: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-balance

🎧 To the Point with Jim Horne and Doug Mesecar: https://to-the-point.captivate.fm/

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

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#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Dr. John Craft, Superintendent of Northside ISD—the fourth-largest school district in Texas—to discuss leadership, resilience, and the role of schools as the heart of their communities. As the state grapples with the aftermath of a devastating flood near the Guadalupe River, Dr. Craft reflects on how schools step up during times of crisis, offering counseling, resources, and support far beyond the classroom.

A seventh-generation Texan and former football coach, Dr. Craft brings a grounded, no-nonsense perspective to education leadership. He shares how his background in athletics shaped his philosophy around teamwork, community engagement, and character development—values that ripple across his district’s 12 high schools and extensive magnet programs. The conversation covers everything from Texas brisket and Friday night lights to expanding dual-credit pathways and opening a new early college high school in partnership with Alamo Colleges and St. Mary’s University.

Dr. Craft emphasizes the transformative power of extracurricular activities, the importance of parent engagement, and the need to prepare students for both college and career. With initiatives that reduce the cost of higher education and offer real-world experience—whether on the field, in the band, or behind a video board—Northside ISD is building not just graduates, but future leaders.

Amidst tragedy, this episode is a moving reminder that schools are more than buildings—they're lifelines, launchpads, and the glue that holds communities together.

Key Moments

05:42 Texan Resilience and Community Support

07:26 Texas: Heroes in Tragedy

11:14 Athletics Teach Lifelong Lessons

13:20 Community Engagement in Schools

17:53 Student Career Opportunities Boost

20:14 Mary's College Supports Dual Credit

23:19 Show Appreciation

Connect with Dr. John Craft

Website: https://www.nisd.net/district

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Learn more about Strategos Group: https://www.strategosgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategos-group-public-affairs/

🚨 Subscribe to the Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@strategospodcastnetwork

=============================

PODCASTS

🎧 Capital Class with Adam Giery: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast

🎧 On the Clock with Todd Dallas Lamb: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-the-clock

🎧 Swimming Upstream with Tom Luna: https://swimming-upstream.captivate.fm/listen

🎧 On Balance with Dr. Rod Berger: https://www.strategosgroup.com/podcast-on-balance

🎧 To the Point with Jim Horne and Doug Mesecar: https://to-the-point.captivate.fm/

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

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#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Dr. LaTonya Goffney, Superintendent of Aldine ISD, for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation on leadership, innovation, and equity in public education. Recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego, the episode explores Dr. Goffney’s journey from rural educator to national leader and her philosophy that being a superintendent is about doing the work, not chasing the title.

Dr. Goffney shares her perspective on artificial intelligence in K-12 education, viewing it not as a silver bullet but as a strategic tool to support overburdened educators and personalize learning in underserved communities. Drawing from her experience leading three distinct districts, rural, suburban, and urban, she emphasizes the importance of hiring strong teams, engaging with the community, and keeping student outcomes at the center of every decision.

The conversation also highlights Aldine ISD’s groundbreaking partnership with Memorial Hermann and the Bloomberg Foundation to combat healthcare deserts and workforce shortages. This initiative will transform a local high school into a community-based health care hub, offering hands-on training for students and services for families, a bold move that reflects Dr. Goffney’s commitment to equity and innovation.With candid reflections on leadership, mentorship, and the deeply personal impact of education, Dr. Goffney offers a compelling blueprint for superintendents navigating today’s complex educational landscape. It’s a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of public education.

Key Moments

00:00 Teacher Recruitment and Support Challenges

03:04 "AI: Idea Generator and Custom Tool"

06:22 "Superintendent Success Strategies"

11:24 Community Hub: School to Hospital Transformation

14:09 "Authenticity in Career Advancement"

16:42 Addressing Under-Enrolled Buildings

Connect with Dr. LaTonya Goffney

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

Website: https://www.aldineisd.org/

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Jeff McCoy, the Associate Superintendent of Greenville County Schools and a nationally recognized education leader, at the ASU+GSV Summit in San Diego. As a second-time guest—and now a proud member of the show’s “two-timers club”—McCoy opens up about his career journey, his passion for public education, and the transformative power of AI in schools.

McCoy shares insights from his extensive work leading one of South Carolina’s largest school districts, overseeing everything from academic innovation to special education and career readiness. He reflects on the pivotal shift in K–12 education that values career and technical education (CTE) alongside college pathways, highlighting Greenville’s "Graduation Plus" initiative—where over 75% of students graduate with college credits or industry certifications.

The conversation dives deep into the promise and perils of artificial intelligence, where McCoy emphasizes the need for "ethical AI" in the classroom. He challenges schools to teach responsible use of emerging tools while avoiding further exacerbation of opportunity gaps for underserved students.

Looking ahead, McCoy discusses his new role as Chief Education Officer at ERDI, a national organization connecting edtech innovators with education leaders. He reflects on what’s next in instructional design for Generation Alpha and the pressing need to reimagine engagement in an era of distraction.

Key Moments

00:00 Embracing Public School Education

05:42 Closing Education Achievement Gaps

07:31 Impact of Mobility on Education

12:39 Navigating Market Saturation for Startups

15:07 Innovative Instructional Leadership for Gen Alpha

16:44 Phone Etiquette for Young Interns

Connect with Jeff McCoy

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

Website: https://www.greenville.k12.sc.us/

In this episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with longtime friend and edtech trailblazer Ryan Imbriale, Group Vice President and Head of Worldwide Education at PowerSchool. With nearly 30 years in public education—as a teacher, principal, district innovator, and now global executive—Imbriale offers a rare inside look at how cutting-edge technology is transforming education systems around the world.

The conversation spans from his early days launching one of the nation’s most ambitious 1:1 initiatives in Baltimore County to now leading PowerSchool’s global education strategy, reaching over 60 million students in 100+ countries. Imbriale shares how PowerSchool became the world’s largest education technology company and what it means to deliver truly personalized, data-driven learning at scale.

A major focus of the episode is artificial intelligence—how it’s already embedded in PowerSchool’s tools, why it's not replacing teachers but empowering them, and how AI is quietly revolutionizing everything from lesson planning to parent engagement. Imbriale also pulls back the curtain on international education models, offering insights into how ministries of education are leveraging centralized systems and what U.S. schools can learn from that approach.

With candor and clarity, Imbriale makes the case for innovation with purpose, urging educators and policymakers alike to think beyond fear and embrace AI as a means of expanding opportunity for every student. Whether you're an edtech skeptic or a die-hard futurist, this episode offers sharp insights, honest dialogue, and an optimistic look at what's next for learning.

Key Moments

00:00 "Journey from Education Tech to Leadership"

04:04 PowerSchool's Evolution: From SIS to Ecosystem

09:04 AI-Driven Education in Austin School

11:03 AI-Enhanced Education Integration

13:16 Rethinking Learning Beyond School

19:42 "AI Innovation Accelerating Education Change"

22:41 Addressing Teacher Shortage with AI

24:48 Generative AI in Education Systems

Connect with Ryan Imbriale

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-imbriale

Website: https://www.powerschool.com/

In this episode of On the Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb interviews Amanda Wise, Director of Accounts at Access411, a company focused on improving school security. Amanda shares the origin story of Access411, which began over 25 years ago when her father, an educator, created the first version of their school ID system to improve safety in Baltimore schools. The system has since evolved into a comprehensive security solution, integrating student identification, attendance tracking, and visitor management.

Amanda discusses the modern challenges of school security, explaining how Access411 helps schools prevent unauthorized access, track student movements, and collaborate with other security measures like metal detectors and weapons detection systems. She shares real-world examples of how their system has been used to ensure safety in schools, such as tracking students who were wandering off campus and monitoring restroom access to prevent issues like vaping.

The conversation also touches on the future of school safety, with Amanda highlighting the company's focus on integrating AI and other cutting-edge technologies. She proudly notes the company's recent transition to minority women leadership, with her stepmother now serving as CEO and her sister as president, driving innovation forward. This insightful episode offers a deep dive into how technology is shaping the future of school safety and protecting students and staff alike.

Timestamps

00:00 Education concerns shift to safety and mental health.

04:35 Surprised by the innovative school safety offerings at the conference.

08:01 Security systems to detect harmful items in buildings.

11:33 Maryland investing in new school construction technology.

13:42 America's entrepreneur class aims to solve problems.

Connect with Amanda Wise

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-wise-158b8a67/

Website:  https://www.access411.com/

In this episode of On the Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb interviews Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools, offering a captivating conversation about leadership in education and the unique challenges of serving a diverse student population. Dr. Pepukayi shares her deep commitment to fostering academic excellence and community engagement in her district, which serves nearly 5,000 students across eight schools. A strong advocate for early childhood education and the science of reading, she discusses her district’s proactive efforts to train teachers in evidence-based reading strategies, even before they became a state mandate.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Dr. Pepukayi reflects on her own roots in Talbot County, where her family has a rich history in the seafood industry, and she highlights the legacy of Frederick Douglass, a historical figure who also hails from the area. She emphasizes how his legacy of education and self-liberation continues to inspire the work she does in the district today. Dr. Pepukayi also touches on the importance of historical education and open dialogue in the classroom, acknowledging the challenges of teaching American history and the necessity of creating spaces for students to connect with their past.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Pepukayi’s dedication to the success of both students and educators shines, making it clear that she is deeply invested in shaping the future of education in Talbot County and beyond.

Timestamps

00:00 Frederick Douglass learned to read, changed future.

04:28 Reforming public education is complex and layered.

07:30 Museum reenactors share history; expanding student access.

10:14 Assess needs, provide holistic academic support.

Connect with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-pepukayi-superintendent/

Website: https://tcps.k12.md.us/

In this episode of On the Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb sits down with Dr. Gustavo Balderas, the superintendent of Beaverton School District, for an insightful conversation on education leadership. Dr. Balderas, a nationally recognized leader in equity-driven education, shares his vast experience in the field, having served as a superintendent across five districts and been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2020 Oregon Superintendent of the Year.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Balderas offers a candid look at the challenges superintendents face today, especially the political pressures that influence education policy and school systems. He reflects on his journey from a teacher and counselor in Hillsboro, Oregon, to becoming a superintendent, emphasizing the importance of mentoring future leaders. Balderas stresses that superintendents must focus on putting students first and navigating the complex political landscape that often hinders effective education reform.

He also highlights his role as a mentor, supporting both new and seasoned leaders in their careers, and speaks passionately about the need for educational leaders to stay true to their values while working to improve systems for all students. In a time when the role of superintendent is becoming increasingly challenging, Dr. Balderas' perspective on leadership, mentorship, and equity offers a refreshing and inspiring message for those on the frontlines of education.

Timestamps

00:00 Mentor and leader at educational conferences.

03:22 Longer service opens more impactful opportunities.

06:43 Superintendents need formal mentors for leadership success.

10:35 Politicians now actively engage in education policy.

16:06 Align with places matching your core values.

16:33 Gustavo Balderas inspires leadership with ease.

Connect with Gustavo Balderas

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustavo-balderas-d-ed-35343710

Website: https://www.beaverton.k12.or.us/