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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#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/

In this powerful episode of On The Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb speaks with Julie Myers, Chief Executive Officer of the One Love Foundation and former Women's Lacrosse Coach at the University of Virginia. Julie shares her personal connection to the foundation’s mission, as she coached Yardley Love, a UVA lacrosse player tragically murdered by her boyfriend in 2010. This heartbreaking event led to the creation of the One Love Foundation by Yardley's family, aiming to educate young people about the warning signs of relationship abuse.

Julie reflects on Yardley's bright spirit and the shocking reality of her death, which highlighted the widespread and often overlooked issue of domestic violence among young adults. She discusses the importance of the foundation's work in helping students recognize unhealthy behaviors and prevent abusive relationships.

The conversation delves into the tools and programs One Love provides, from workshops for middle and high school students to more advanced resources for college campuses. Julie emphasizes the importance of prevention education and fostering healthy relationships. She also touches on the challenge of keeping these valuable resources free for everyone, and how the foundation relies on donations and partnerships to continue their impactful work.

Listeners are encouraged to support One Love’s mission and help spread awareness about relationship abuse, potentially saving lives and improving relationships for future generations.

Timestamps

00:00 Yardley: compassionate, inclusive, versatile, lacrosse team player.

06:20 Realized George's manipulative behavior only after trial.

09:50 Different workshops on abuse awareness and prevention.

11:34 Discussing lacrosse culture's shock after Yardley's tragedy.

14:10 Making life-changing relationship education free for everyone.

Connect with Julie Myers

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-myers-b26412142

Website: https://www.joinonelove.org/

In this episode of On the Clock, host Todd Dallas Lamb interviews Bill Bass, the past President of the ISTE Board of Directors and an award-winning educator with a deep passion for educational technology. Bill currently serves as the Innovation Coordinator for Instructional Technology, Information, Library Media, and Federal Programs in the Parkway School District in St. Louis, Missouri. He shares insights on the evolving role of technology in education, emphasizing the importance of its seamless integration into classrooms at all grade levels.

Bill discusses his experiences at conferences like PowerSchool Edge, where thought leadership and innovative tools are driving change in education. He reflects on the shift from traditional tech roles focused on infrastructure to more visionary leadership positions that prioritize enhancing student learning experiences through technology. The conversation also touches on the rapid rise of AI, sparked by tools like ChatGPT, and how its presence will likely reshape education in the coming years.

Bill offers practical perspectives on using technology in classrooms, including the benefits and challenges of smartphones and the importance of teaching students self-regulation with devices. He encourages educators to focus on students' learning processes rather than just the final products, advocating for new approaches in assessment and engagement. This episode provides valuable insights into the future of education technology and the critical role it plays in preparing students for life beyond school.

Timestamps

00:00 Advisory board member, speaker, promoting education technology standards.

05:25 Trend: Tech directors are now increasingly former educators.

08:44 Son used ChatGPT for essays, parents concerned.

10:11 AI cheats faster; promotes understanding of writers' process.

12:42 AI will be embedded in educational tools.

16:23 Removing cell phones hinders kids' life skills development.

19:29 Saint Louis recommendations and school well-wishes.

Connect with Bill Bass

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

In this episode, we are joined by Dereck Rhoads, the executive director of the American International Schools of the Americas (AMISA). We delve into the vital roles these schools play, their affiliation with the US Department of State, and the innovative strategic partnerships they've formed, particularly with PowerSchool, to enhance educational services.

Dereck shares his journey from an assistant superintendent in Beaufort, South Carolina, to his current role with AMISA, where he supports American citizens' educational needs across Latin America and the Caribbean. Additionally, Dereck shares the exciting developments in educational technology, specifically the integration of AI tools that promise to revolutionize administrative tasks and save valuable time for educators.  

Stay tuned for a fascinating discussion that highlights the global impact of American education and the advancements shaping its future.

Timestamps

00:00 Education leaders share insights on “On the Clock”.

03:30 American International Schools support partnership with PowerSchool.

09:08 International schools offer housing, support, and growth.

11:59 Seattle visit, Pacific Northwest, PowerSchool discussion.

Connect with Dereck Rhoads  

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

Website: https://www.amisa.us/