In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis interviews Dr. Reny Lizardo, Executive Director of Campus Operations and Attendance at Irving Independent School District. Dr. Lizardo shares his inspiring journey from principal to district leader, detailing his passion for improving student attendance and building school culture. He emphasizes the critical role of attendance in student success, reflecting on his past experiences leading two schools from the lowest to the highest attendance rates in their districts.

Dr. Lizardo explains how the PowerSchool Attendance Intervention tool has become a game-changer for Irving ISD. This tool allows for two-way communication between schools and families in their home languages, streamlining attendance tracking and enabling more meaningful interventions. Within just six weeks of implementing the system, Irving ISD saw a significant improvement in attendance rates.

Throughout the conversation, Lizardo highlights the importance of over-communication with families and creating a school environment where students want to attend. He also discusses how addressing barriers like language and providing wraparound services, such as food and transportation support, have been key to building trust and re-engaging students post-COVID.

This episode offers valuable insights into Irving ISD's innovative strategies to increase student attendance and support student success, making it a must-listen for education leaders.

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast spotlighting educational leaders' challenges and triumphs.

03:41 Principal focusing on attendance, culture, and instructional empowerment.

06:32 Confidence in initial success and model adoption.

09:52 Insufficient social workers; leveraging social media helps connectivity.

14:12 Active engagement fosters genuine student connection and ownership.

18:04 Aspiring to lead challenging urban school districts.

20:09 Building capacity fosters success and well-being.

22:02 Promoting leadership and growth for children's benefit.

Connect with Reny Lizardo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reny-lizardo-ed-d-8849a9229

Website: https://www.irvingisd.net/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Michele Collier, Superintendent of Escambia County Schools in Alabama. Michele shares her journey from 25 years in Mobile County Schools to leading her home district. Now as superintendent, she focuses on driving educational success and strengthening community engagement.

Michele discusses the importance of using technology and data-driven tools like PowerSchool to improve teacher performance, financial management, and academic outcomes. She highlights the need for aligning curriculum, assessments, and resources to boost rigor and ensure students are prepared for college and careers. Professional development is key to supporting her teachers and leaders in reaching these goals.

Throughout the episode, Michele’s dedication to her home community and her mission to build trust with stakeholders shines through. She focuses on creating pathways for college and career readiness while enhancing communication between schools and families. With a vision rooted in growth, rigor, and relationship-building, Michele is positioning Escambia County Schools for continued success. This insightful episode offers valuable lessons for educational leaders striving to balance innovation, collaboration, and community engagement in their districts.

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast on superintendents' educational leadership stories and strategies.

03:47 Excited to return and focus on students.

07:16 Vision and steps for Escambia education improvement.

10:47 Switched to Schoology for a better communication system.

14:49 Michele Collier excels in educational leadership, Escambia.

Connect with Michele Collier

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

Website: https://www.escambiaschools.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis interviews Dr. Adam Clark, Superintendent of Mt. Diablo Unified School District in California. Dr. Clark, who oversees a diverse district with 29,000 students and 3,000 staff members, shares insights into the leadership strategies that drive success across his schools. His discussion covers the district’s focus on fostering student-centered environments and building strong relationships with parents and the community to ensure every student feels supported.

Dr. Clark emphasizes the importance of strong leadership and board collaboration, noting that building trust and understanding the motivations of school board members is essential for district success. He discusses his approach to leadership, advocating for clear communication, relationship-building with staff, and a focus on student outcomes as the central goal of the district’s initiatives. Dr. Clark highlights the importance of fostering connections to engage students and prevent absenteeism, underscoring the district’s efforts to make schools welcoming spaces.

Listeners will also hear Dr. Clark’s reflections on education innovation and the need for flexible, creative approaches to learning. From doubling down on math and literacy to encouraging leaders to think outside the box, Dr. Clark’s forward-thinking vision is transforming Mt. Diablo Unified. This episode offers a wealth of knowledge for superintendents and educational leaders seeking strategies for improving student engagement and achieving lasting impact.

Timestamps

00:00 Superintendents Unplugged: Educational Leadership Insights with Addison Davis

05:46 Building relationships improves student attendance and engagement.

08:14 Dedicate time, observe schools, and improve curriculum effectiveness.

10:55 Promoting literacy, computing, math, and mental health integration.

15:03 Inspire innovation within guidelines and legality.

Connect with Dr. Adam Clark

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mraclark29

Website: https://www.mdusd.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode, I'm your host, Addison Davis. Today, we have an incredible discussion lined up with Bart Banfield from EPIC Charter Schools in Oklahoma. EPIC Charter Schools serves over 30,000 students virtually across the entire state. We will discuss the challenges they’ve overcome and the strategies they employ to streamline operations using automation, artificial intelligence, and analytics. 

Bart also shares inspiring insights into their Pathways program, which provides opportunities for young adults who have aged out of the traditional school system. Whether you're an educator, parent, or simply passionate about education, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and remarkable stories you won’t want to miss. 

So, prepare to be inspired as we explore how EPIC Charter Schools are transforming education and giving students a second chance. 

Timestamps

00:00 Superintendents' journeys, challenges, and achievements in education.

03:57 Improving retention via automation, AI, and analytics.

07:44 Simplified, unified system is essential for leaders' decision-making.

12:44 Self-awareness, smart hiring, transparency, authentic leadership, legacy.

15:21 Courageous leaders, policies, and partnerships elevate community opportunities.

16:47 Parents and children should have educational choices.

Connect with Bart Banfield:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bart-banfield

Website: https://www.epiccharterschools.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

Welcome, listeners, to another exciting episode. I'm your host, Addison Davis, and today, we have two phenomenal leaders joining us: Colleen Henry and Kari Laizure from Willamette Education Service District in Oregon.

We explore their insights on harnessing technology, leveraging data for decision-making, and the pivotal role of AI in education. We also discuss innovative initiatives like Oregon's "grow your own" programs and mentorship schemes aimed at bolstering the teaching workforce.

Prepare to be inspired as we uncover the impactful work being done to transform education. Let's dive in!

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast explores educational leadership, superintendents' stories, and strategies.

05:48 Connect with us, share resources, and collaborate innovatively.

08:34 Rebranding data dashboard to help districts tell stories.

12:37 Building capacity and transitioning roles for educators.

13:13 Supporting well-being through comprehensive wraparound services.

Connect with Colleen Henry

Website: https://www.wesd.org/

Connect with Kari Laizure

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kari-laizure-70793a260 

Website: https://www.wesd.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

Welcome, listeners, to another exciting episode. I'm your host, Addison Davis, and today, we have The Executive Director of Technology Information joining us Abdullah Ansari from Newark Public Schools in New Jersey.

We dive into his passion for mentoring high school students, the innovative use of AI in education, and the strategic roles that data and cybersecurity play in their district. Abdullah Ansari shares his journey from a systems analyst to a leader in educational technology. We explore how he and his team leverage technology to foster a culture of care and innovation in Newark Public Schools.

Whether you're an educator, a tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about transforming education, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for you.

Timestamps

00:00 Educational leadership podcast spotlights superintendent accomplishments.

05:07 Engaging community in problem-solving, and post-graduation plans.

08:26 Worldwide pandemic led to pause, restart, and strengths.

11:17 Debates, regulations, and planning for pandemic recovery.

14:53 Community engagement events strengthen school district connection.

16:14 Recognizing innovators doing great things for kids.

Connect with Abdullah Ansari

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abdullah-ansari-07b3266/

Website: https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode, I'm your host, Addison Davis, and today, we have an exceptional leader joining us Dr. Dan Streeter from Marana Unified School District in Arizona.

Dr. Streeter shares his insights on creating dynamic, community-engaged strategic plans that serve as the guiding light for school districts. We'll explore how he and his team have successfully reclaimed and presented their district's narrative by involving hundreds of community members and establishing strong partnerships with local businesses, faith-based organizations, and parents. 

Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about education, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration. So, get ready to be inspired as we uncover the remarkable work in Marana Unified School District with Dr. Dan Streeter.

Timestamps

00:00 Educational leadership podcast spotlights superintendent accomplishments.

05:07 Engaging community in problem-solving, and post-graduation plans.

08:26 Worldwide pandemic led to pause, restart, and strengths.

11:17 Debates, regulations, and planning for pandemic recovery.

14:53 Community engagement events strengthen school district connection.

16:14 Recognizing innovators doing great things for kids.

Connect with Dr. Dan Streeter

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-streeter-3bb91427a

Website: https://www.maranausd.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

In this episode, we'll explore the complexities of the superintendent role, especially in the face of recent challenges like the pandemic. Dr. Joel shares his insights on finding and nurturing the right leaders for school districts, the importance of long-term leadership, and the need for intentional, strategic planning. Whether you're an educator, parent, student, or simply passionate about education, today's discussion promises to be enlightening and inspiring. 

So, get ready to join us on this incredible journey as we delve into the nuances of educational leadership with one of the best in the field. 

Timestamps

00:00 Superintendents are facing challenges, and seeking new replacements.

06:51 Pandemic teaches leadership, strategy, engagement, and execution.

10:27 Gratitude for systemic change in educational leadership.

13:39 Education flexibility, need for gradual change.

15:06 Compelling mandate leads to negative internal culture.

17:46 Presentation emphasizes intention, relationships, and courage in work.

Connect with Dr. Steve Joel 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-joel-a0b72970

Website: https://wp.lps.org/

Welcome back to another episode of Superintendents Unplugged: In Depth with Davis! Today, we're diving into a stimulating conversation with Dr. Jharrett Bryantt from Anchorage Public Schools. As one of the nation's youngest superintendents, Dr. Bryantt brings a unique blend of energy and expertise to the challenges of educational leadership. From his pioneering adjustments to school start times to align with adolescent sleep science, to his ambitious plans for transforming high schools into career academies, Dr. Bryantt is reshaping the educational landscape in Anchorage. 

Join us as we explore his journey from Houston to the vast expanses of Alaska, discussing the innovative strategies and bold initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes for all students. Don't miss this in-depth look at leadership, community engagement, and the future of education in one of America's most diverse and dynamic districts. Stay tuned!

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast explores educational leadership, sharing inspiring stories.

06:03 Alaska Native, Hispanic, and African American students need representation.

08:11 Standardized 6th graders, emphasized core course access.

11:31 Bold leaders make hard decisions through effective communication.

12:57 ASD tackling talent shortage with community partnerships.

Connect with Dr. Jharrett Bryantt

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

Website: https://www.asdk12.org/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education

Welcome, listeners, to another exciting episode of Superintendents Unplugged! I'm your host, Addison Davis, and today we're diving into the world of educational leadership with a very special guest: Terry Connor, the newly appointed Superintendent of Sarasota Public Schools. In this episode, we'll explore Terry's remarkable journey from a science teacher to the helm of one of Florida's high-performing districts. 

We'll discuss his 100-day transition plan, the importance of being a risk-taker, and the strategic steps he's implementing to drive Sarasota Schools to new heights. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about education, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. 

Join us as we unravel the complexities and triumphs of leading a school district and learn from the experiences and strategies of an innovative leader. Let's get started!

Timestamps

00:00 "Superintendents Unplugged: Inside Educational Leadership" podcast intro.

05:22 Starting in Duval, retiring, and embracing change pays off.

08:53 LEED: listen, explore, analyze, deliver, 4 phases.

10:04 Explore, analyze, and structure for strategic success.

Connect with Terry Connor

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

Website: https://www.sarasotacountyschools.net/

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

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

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

#educationmanagement #educationleadership #education