Principal Office Hours

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Nathen Ramezane, Principal of Ponderosa Elementary School in Santa Clara Unified School District, California, as they explore leadership rooted in community connection and growth. This insightful conversation delves into Nathen’s approach to serving a diverse student body with over 30% English language learners and 15-20% special education students.

Key Takeaways:

• Empathy & Service: Nathen’s experience in the service industry and coaching informs his leadership style, emphasizing empathy, direction, motivation, and curiosity.
• Servant Leadership: He identifies as a community builder and servant leader, focusing on empowering and collaborating with staff, students, and families.
• Diverse Student Body: Ponderosa serves over 500 students, with 30% English language learners and 15–20% qualifying for special education.
• Inclusive Environment: The school prioritizes meeting the needs of the whole child through strong relationships and a collaborative staff culture.
• Multiple Feedback Channels: Nathen uses online surveys, advisory committees, principal chats, PTSA events, and classroom celebrations to gather input and foster community.
• Celebrating Diversity: Events like stay-and-play, reading/writing celebrations, and grade-level showcases bring families together and honor student achievements.
• Valuing All Voices: He believes collective intelligence leads to better solutions, ensuring all community voices are heard and considered.
• Continuous Listening: Feedback is used both to celebrate strengths and identify growth areas, with openness to constructive criticism.
• Embracing Challenges: Nathen encourages staff and students to see challenges and mistakes as opportunities for growth, fostering a culture of resilience and learning.
• Reflective Planning: School improvement goals are regularly reviewed and updated with input from leadership teams, site councils, and families.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode

00:26 Meet Nathen Ramezane: A Leader with Diverse Experience

01:14 Ponderosa Elementary: A Vibrant and Diverse Community

02:23 Leadership Challenges and Strategies

03:51 Engaging the Community: Tactics and Approaches

06:49 Vision and Goals for School Improvement

08:29 The Importance of Challenges and Growth

16:08 Data-Driven Success and Family Engagement

21:31 Influence of Service Industry on Leadership

23:11 Balancing Multiple Roles and Staying Motivated

33:27 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Nathen Ramezane: linkedin.com/in/nate-ramezane-27125b57



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Deedy Camanera, Principal of Brownell Middle School in Gilroy, California, as they explore the power of human-centered leadership in a diverse school community. This insightful conversation delves into Deedy’s approach to leading with empathy and deep listening, recognizing the unique challenges and strengths each staff member and student brings every day. She shares practical strategies for balancing the demands of school leadership while holding space for the whole person—staff, students, and families alike. 

Key Takeaways:

• Human-Centered Leadership: Deedy emphasizes leading with empathy and deep listening, recognizing that every student, staff member, and family comes with unique challenges and strengths each day.
• Diverse Community: Brownell serves a diverse population including Latino, African American, Asian, immigrant, and foster youth, requiring culturally responsive and inclusive approaches.
• Balancing Demands: Despite a busy schedule and many responsibilities, Deedy prioritizes giving her full attention to individuals when they need support, creating systems to manage interruptions and maintain focus.
• Teamwork and Communication: Effective leadership relies on a well-informed and coordinated office and support staff who understand their roles and can anticipate needs, helping the school run smoothly.
• Self-Care and Boundaries: Deedy acknowledges the mental toll of constant demands and stresses the importance of setting boundaries, scheduling focused time, and taking mental breaks to recharge.
• Balancing Heart and Rules: While leading with compassion, she also navigates legal and policy constraints, balancing individual needs with broader school safety and regulations.
• Continuous Improvement: She embraces learning from challenges and adapting protocols to better support staff and students, especially during high-pressure times.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Human-Centered Leadership

00:31 Meet Didi Kana: Background and Experience

01:06 Understanding Brownell Middle School

04:39 Defining Human-Centered Leadership

07:19 Practical Challenges and Approaches

09:58 Balancing Leadership and Personal Wellbeing

11:23 Building a Supportive School Environment

14:36 The Importance of Individualized Leadership

25:48 Clifton Strengths and Leadership Development

31:15 Didi's Leadership Journey

35:58 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Deedy Camanera: linkedin.com/in/deedy-camarena-32b4b271



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Join Dr. Jim and Dr. Eric Byrne, superintendent of the Rye City School District, as they unpack the intricacies of crafting an effective entry plan for new superintendents. Discover how to balance focusing on community stakeholders, operational challenges, and strategic relationship building. Dr. Byrne shares valuable insights from his extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, thorough research, and open communication with families and community members. Learn how to set yourself up for long-term success by building trust and continuously engaging with key community players.

Key Takeaways:

• an effective entry plan involves an equal focus on both business operations and personal relationships within the district.
• Building trust within the community requires consistent presence, engagement, and transparency.
• New superintendents should seek mentorship and strategically engage with all stakeholders for comprehensive district insight.
• Continuous learning and feedback are crucial to adapt and refine strategies that address evolving educational landscapes.

Chapters:

0:00

Mentorship's Impact on Leadership Transition for New Superintendents

4:39

Intentional Mentorship Through Regular On-Site Meetings

7:23

Strategies for Leading a High-Performing and Stable School District

11:16

Superintendent Success Through Comprehensive Entry Planning and Community Engagement

18:59

Building Trust and Overcoming Resistance in School District Investments

24:51

Preparing for the Demands of a Superintendent Role

29:56

Effective Entry Plans for Successful School Superintendencies

36:44

Building Strong Cultures Through Feedback and Stakeholder Engagement

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Eric Byrne: linkedin.com/in/eric-byrne-b4135b46

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Vern Caruz, Principal of Rancho Milpitas Middle School in California, as they explore how authentic leadership rooted in cultural identity can transform a diverse school community. This insightful conversation delves into Dr. Caruz’s personal journey as an immigrant and English learner returning to lead the very school where he once studied. He shares how embracing Filipino cultural values like kawa (shared identity) helps him build strong relationships with students, families, and staff. Discover how Dr. Caruz balances honoring cultural authenticity with navigating traditional educational leadership models to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Rooted in Cultural Identity: Dr. Caruz draws on his Filipino heritage and immigrant experience to build authentic connections with students and families, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Embracing Kawa (Shared Identity): The concept of kawa guides his approach to leadership, emphasizing collective responsibility, belonging, and mutual support within the school.
• Returning to His Roots: Leading the school he once attended gives Dr. Caruz unique insight and motivation to create a nurturing and inclusive environment.
• Balancing Tradition and Authenticity: He navigates traditional educational leadership expectations while honoring cultural values, creating a leadership style that resonates with his diverse community.
• Focus on Relationships: Building trust and genuine relationships with students, staff, and families is central to fostering student success and well-being.
• Championing Diversity and Inclusion: Dr. Caruz advocates for culturally responsive practices that celebrate students’ backgrounds and promote equity.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:57 Meet Dr. Vern Caruz

01:52 Vern's Journey and School Demographics

03:27 Challenges and Experiences as an Immigrant

05:17 Leadership in Education: The Triad

08:06 The Role and Impact of a Principal

11:43 Cultural Identity and Authentic Leadership

26:47 Empowering Students and Staff

31:14  Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Vern Caruz: linkedin.com/in/vern-caruz-edd-5971922

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Franklin Day, Director of Student Support Services for Cheney School District in Washington, as they explore the district’s inclusive and systematic approach to supporting all students. This insightful conversation delves into Cheney’s focus on building an effective Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), balancing inclusionary practices with targeted interventions, and fostering collaboration among general and special education staff.

Key Takeaways:

• Inclusive Vision: Cheney School District aims for all students to graduate with skills for post-secondary education or work, and to be engaged, contributing community members.
• Balanced Inclusion: After moving to full inclusion, the district found some students needed more intensive, skill-based support before returning to general classrooms, leading to a more balanced approach.
• MTSS & Co-Teaching: The district is redeveloping its Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), focusing on tier one and two interventions delivered by classroom teachers, often in co-taught settings.
• Mindset Shift: A major challenge is moving staff from a “pass off” mentality to shared responsibility for all students, supported by regular professional development and collaborative planning.
• Targeted Professional Development: Ongoing, site-level PD and co-teaching training-often during lunch hours-have increased teacher participation and improved instructional collaboration.
• Leadership & Accountability: Principals are empowered as site leaders responsible for implementing PD and co-teaching practices, with district support and clear accountability.
• Community Diversity: Cheney serves a diverse population across three communities, including a college town, an Air Force base, and a higher-income area, requiring tailored approaches and resource allocation.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode

00:54 Meet Franklin Day: Director of Student Support Services

01:21 Understanding the Cheney School District

04:04 Challenges and Strategies for Inclusivity

07:19 Implementing Inclusionary Practices and MTSS

15:37 Leadership and Mindset Shifts

22:10 Franklin Day's Leadership Journey

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Franklin Day: cheneysd.org/services-support/student-support-services/department-directory

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson, Superintendent of Concord Community Schools in Michigan, as they explore innovative approaches that are transforming learning in a small rural district. This insightful conversation delves into Concord’s personalized learning journey, including team-based teaching models that replace the traditional one-teacher classroom with collaborative educator teams. Dr. Hutchinson shares how this model empowers teachers with autonomy, leverages their strengths, and uses dynamic student grouping to meet individual needs. 

Key Takeaways:

• Personalized Learning Focus: Concord Community Schools emphasizes personalized learning, tailoring instruction to meet individual student needs through flexible, dynamic grouping.
• Team-Based Teaching Model: The district replaces traditional single-teacher classrooms with collaborative educator teams, allowing teachers to leverage their strengths and share responsibility for student success.
• Teacher Autonomy and Empowerment: Teachers are given greater autonomy to design and adapt instruction, fostering innovation and responsiveness within classrooms.
• Integration of Social-Emotional Learning: Social-emotional learning is woven into daily practices alongside academics, supporting the whole child’s development.
• Blended Instruction: Concord uses blended learning strategies to combine in-person and digital tools, enhancing engagement and personalized pathways.
• Student Agency: The district encourages students to take ownership of their learning, preparing them to be active, self-directed learners.
• Small Rural District Innovation: Despite its size and rural context, Concord demonstrates that thoughtful leadership and innovative practices can create vibrant, effective learning environments.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:35 Meet Dr. Rebecca "Becky" Hutchinson

01:15 Overview of Concord Community Schools

03:58 Creating Student-Centered Learning Environments

07:31 Empowering Teachers and Building Self-Efficacy

12:29 Innovative Team-Based Instructional Models

15:02 Dynamic Grouping and Distributed Leadership

18:54 Challenges and Successes in Implementation

37:37 Leadership Insights and Personal Growth

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Rebecca Hutchinson: linkedin.com/in/rebecca-hutchinson-1517b9234

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Brett Geithman, Superintendent of Larkspur-Corte Madera School District in California, as they explore how intentional leadership and innovative professional development are shaping a model for student and staff success. This insightful conversation delves into Dr. Geithman’s commitment to personalized learning through inquiry-based instruction, such as Cognitively Guided Instruction in math and structured literacy, and his district’s multi-layered approach to professional development

Key Takeaways:

• Community-Funded Stability: Larkspur-Corte Madera is a community-funded “basic aid” district, allowing greater focus on instructional quality rather than enrollment pressures.
• Leadership Pipeline: The “Leaders From Within” program develops both classified and certificated staff for leadership roles, benefiting the district and the wider region.
• Gradual Release Model: The district partners with outside experts (like UCLA for Cognitively Guided Instruction in math), but intentionally builds internal teacher leaders to sustain and personalize professional development.
• Four-Layer PD Framework:

1. District-wide foundational knowledge
2. Site-specific PD tailored to each school
3. Grade-level/department PD for subject/age needs
4. Individualized coaching for teachers

• Personalized Support: PD is differentiated by teachers’ experience and needs, with ongoing coaching and lesson study models to embed new practices.
• Strategic Alignment: All PD and instructional initiatives are closely linked to the district’s strategic vision, with careful planning and timing to maintain momentum.
• Collaborative Culture: The district values risk-taking, collaboration, and reflection, and leverages strong community partnerships to support academic and social-emotional growth.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Overcoming PD Challenges

00:47 Meet Dr. Brett Geman: A Leader in Personalized Learning

01:28 District Overview: Larksburg Jte Madera School District

03:34 Leadership Development: Building the Next Generation

08:30 Four Layers of Effective PD

12:36 Strategic Planning for PD Implementation

23:54 Funding Professional Development: Time and Money Solutions

36:58 Brett Geman's Leadership Journey

42:28 Final Thoughts

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Brett Geithman: lcmschools.org/Page/2360

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Michelle Quilantang, Principal of Captain Jason M. Dahl Elementary School in San Jose, as they discuss how to lead a school in the face of possible closure. Michelle shares how focusing on social-emotional learning, strong family engagement, and robust after-school programs helps keep students supported and motivated. Through transparent communication and a “Shine Bright” philosophy, she demonstrates how optimism and community connection can sustain a school through uncertain times.

Key Takeaways:

• Intentional Tech Implementation: Dr. Glazer emphasizes a "go slow to go fast" approach, encouraging thoughtful consideration of technology's impact before widespread adoption.
• Student Voice & Agency: She created student-led groups like the Principal's Advisory Council and Technology Internship Program, empowering students to shape policies and create resources.
• Real-World Projects: The tech internship program engages students in projects like developing an AI policy generator for schools and hosting AI literacy events.
• Community Partnerships: Mountain View High leverages its Silicon Valley location by partnering with tech companies and community organizations.
• Comprehensive Education: Despite its tech focus, the school maintains a balance by supporting athletics, arts, and wellness programs.
• Equity & Access: Dr. Glazer, an immigrant and former English learner, is committed to ensuring all students have access to opportunities through technology.

Chapters:

00:34 Meet Michelle Ang: Principal of Captain Jason M. Dahl Elementary

01:20 The Legacy of Captain Jason M. Dahl

03:55 Facing Potential School Closure

06:28 Building Resilience in Students

11:11 Community Support and Advocacy

15:01 Leadership in Crisis: Personal Experiences

19:23 Reflecting on Leadership During Challenging Times

20:30 Early Leadership Experiences and Mentorship

22:02 Developing Student Leaders

23:22 Pursuing Professional Development

25:17 Personal Motivation and Family Influence

28:08 Future Plans for the School

30:34 Advice for Leaders Facing Challenges

38:42 Concluding Thoughts and Appreciation

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Michelle Quilantang: linkedin.com/in/michelle-quilantang-ba567765

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary:

Dr. Jim sits down with Dr. Jason Cochran, superintendent of Krum ISD, to explore how a school district triumphs after a failed referendum. Dr. Cochran shares his approach to creating a "future ready" district by engaging with community needs, managing growth, and fostering relationships with an emphasis on transparency and communication. He reveals valuable insights from decades of leadership experience across districts of varying sizes, offering strategic lessons in passing school bond referendums and maintaining community trust. Tune in to discover how flexibility and ongoing community engagement lead to success.

Key Takeaways:

• Building authentic relationships with students, staff, and the community is crucial in fostering a supportive educational environment.
• Successful implementation of bond referendums relies on genuine community engagement and understanding the fiscal comfort levels of stakeholders.
• Dr. Cochran emphasizes the importance of transparent and ongoing communication, allowing community members to influence decisions and remain informed about district developments.
• Understanding the unique growth dynamics and historical contexts of school districts is essential for effective leadership and planning.

Chapters:

0:00

Leadership Lessons from Overcoming Educational Challenges

7:20

Balancing Growth and Community in a Rapidly Expanding School District

10:55

Balancing Leadership and Approachability in Large Organizations

13:22

Overcoming Bond Failures in School Districts

16:58

Building Community Buy-In for School Bond Proposals

21:25

Building Community Support for School Bonds Amidst Rapid Growth

26:29

Empowering Community Growth Through Strategic Bond Referendum

28:14

Community Involvement in School Bond Planning and Market Adaptation

31:40

Community Involvement in School Development and Future Planning

33:07

Building Commitment Through Transparent Communication and Flexibility

Connect with Dr. Jim: linkedin.com/in/drjimk

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Jason Cochran:

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe

Summary: Join C.T. and guest Dr. Kip Glazer, Principal of Mountain View High School in Silicon Valley, as they discuss how thoughtful, student-driven technology leadership is shaping the future of public education. This conversation highlights Dr. Glazer’s “go slow to go fast” approach, her creation of student advisory and tech internship programs, and how students are leading real-world projects like drafting AI policies for schools. Discover how Mountain View High balances innovation, wellness, and inclusivity to prepare students for a rapidly changing world

Key Takeaways:

• Intentional Technology Leadership: Dr. Glazer emphasizes a “go slow to go fast” philosophy, encouraging staff and students to thoughtfully implement and reflect on technology use rather than rushing to adopt every new tool.
• Student Agency and Voice: She has established student-led groups, including a Principal’s Advisory Council and a Technology Internship Program, empowering students to co-design solutions, provide feedback, and even create technology resources and tutorials for the school community.
• Real-World, Student-Driven Projects: Students in the tech internship program work on authentic projects such as developing an AI policy generator for schools and organizing events like an AI Play Lab for National AI Literacy Day, demonstrating the power of hands-on, relevant learning experiences.
• Community and Industry Partnerships: The school leverages its location in Silicon Valley by collaborating with local tech companies, community colleges, and organizations like Google, providing students with unique opportunities and resources.
• Balanced School Culture: While technology and innovation are central, Mountain View High School maintains a comprehensive approach, supporting athletics, arts, and wellness initiatives to ensure all students are engaged and cared for.
• Equity and Access: As an immigrant and former English learner, Dr. Glazer is committed to leveraging technology to ensure universal access and inclusion for all students, regardless of background.
• Educator and Thought Leader: Dr. Glazer is nationally recognized for her expertise in learning technologies, game-based learning, and AI ethics in education, and regularly presents on these topics at major conferences.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction & Dr. Glazer’s Background

2:00 Mountain View High School and Silicon Valley Community

4:30 Philosophy: “Go Slow to Go Fast” with Technology

7:00 Student Voice: Advisory Council & Tech Internship Program

10:00 Real-World Projects: AI Policy Tool & AI Literacy Events

13:00 Community Partnerships & Google Innovator Project

15:00 Internship Program Structure & Student Involvement

17:00 Comprehensive School: Athletics, Arts, and More

19:00 Closing Reflections on Leadership and Opportunity

Connect with CT: linkedin.com/in/cheetung

Connect with Dr. Kip Glazer: linkedin.com/in/kip-glazer-09a26933

Music Credit: Shake it Up - Fesliyanstudios.com - David Renda



Join us at Engaging Leadership to learn and connect with a community of leaders in education just like you. This is the space where top people leaders share actionable insights and practical playbooks in fostering a high-performing workplace of the future.

Sign up as a member today for community updates on the latest leadership resources and exclusive event invites: www.engagingleadershipshow.com/subscribe