Wisdom and Productivity: The Podcast of An Imperfect Educator

Dr. Elizabeth Alvarez (@EAlvarezD91) is the Superintendent at Forest Park District 91 and President of IALAS

Josh Tovar is the principal at Garland Independent School District and a cohost of the Unlock the Middle podcast

Darrin Peppard is an author, leadership coach, consultant, and speaker focused on organizational culture and climate, and coaching emerging leaders

Erik M. Francis is the author of “Deconstructing Depth of Knowledge” with Solution Tree and “Now That’s a Good Question!” with ASCD. With Maverick Education, he provides professional development, guidance, and support on how to develop and deliver teaching and learning experiences that are academically rigorous, socially and emotionally supportive, and student responsive.

Lindsay Lyons is an Educational Justice Coach and the host of the Time for Teachership Podcast. She helps educators create feminist, antiracist curricula that challenges, affirms, and inspires all students. https://www.lindsaybethlyons.com/

Dr. Ernesto Matías has an illustrious career where has served in Chicago Public Schools as an assistant principal at Kanoon Magnet school, principal at Wells Community Academy, Deputy Chief of the Office of Strategic School Support, Chief of Network 4, Chief Academic Officer of the Office of Language and Cultural Education and most recently as the Education Officer at the Illinois State Board of Education.

At some point during my trajectory, he dedicated time to guide me with the utmost attention and professionalism. I will forever respect and admire don Ernesto, a good person!

Dr Carmen Ayala served as Illinois State Superintendent of Education from 2019 to 2023 leading us through the pandemic. She was the first woman and the first person of color to serve in that position. Prior to that, she served as a superintendent of Berwyn North School District, Assistant Sup in Plainfield and Aurora East districts, and as a classroom teacher in Aurora and in Chicago Public Schools.   I had the fortune to meet her when she was a superintendent in Berwyn 98, where she opened her doors to me when I was pursuing my superintendent endorsement. I was able to see her live in action and knew right away she was someone to learn from. Her guidance and wisdom, especially an hour-long meeting she dedicated to my learning, is something I will forever be grateful for. Carmen, thank you for making a difference in me!

Dr. Gloria McDaniel-Hall is an Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership at National Louis University, and author, podcaster, and equity trainer

Torrey Trust, PhD is an Associate Professor of Learning Technology in the Department of Education and Curriculum Studies in the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. During her interview, we will discuss her own wisdom and productivity and about the world of ChatGPT & Education: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Vo9w4ftPx-rizdWyaYoB-pQ3DzK1n325OgDgXsnt0X0/edit#slide=id.p

Mr. Bogie is a 4th grade teacher, writer, and guitar player in Highland Park, IL