Season 4, Episode 20 | Leading with Joy in San Diego Schools: Conversations with Superintendents Grey & Norman

Season 4, Episode 20 | Leading with Joy in San Diego Schools: Conversations with Superintendents Grey & Norman

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 19 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged"  The discussion on "Future Pathways:Superintendents Unplugged" features Dr. Andrée Grey and Dr. Andrea (Andi) Norman, both superintendents in San Diego County. They discuss the challenges and rewards of their roles, emphasizing the importance of visibility, accessibility, and positive leadership. Dr. Grey highlights the success of Encinitas Union School District's strategic plan and the value of joy and belonging in education. Dr. Norman shares his journey from broadcast journalism to education and the significance of mentorship. They also address the complexities of funding special education and the need for effective communication to highlight positive educational achievements. Andy Norman's Journey into Education * Drew Schlosberg asks Andi Norman about her journey into education, and Andi shares her initial interest in broadcast journalism. * Andi explains how she transitioned into education after graduating from Long Beach State and working in LA Unified. * Andi discusses the skills she gained from her broadcast journalism degree, such as public speaking and writing for media, which helped her in her educational career. * Drew Schlosberg shares his own background in journalism and relates it to Andi's experience. Andrée Grey Leadership and District Updates * Drew Schlosberg asks Andrée Grey about the current state of her district, Encinitas Union School District. * Andrée shares that they are finishing their third year of implementing their strategic plan and highlights the positive outcomes and energized staff. * Andrée emphasizes the importance of having a strong group of principals and the collaborative efforts within the district. * Drew Schlosberg and Andrée discuss the rise of aspiring leaders in education and the importance of positive leadership models. Positive Leadership Models and Mentorship * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the significance of having positive leadership models and the impact of mentorship on aspiring leaders. * Andi credits Andrée and other mentors for changing his leadership style and emphasizing student, family, and staff engagement. * Andi highlights the importance of creating a positive culture in the district and lifting up staff rather than being negative. * Drew Schlosberg shares his own experiences with leadership and the importance of nonverbal communication and genuine interactions. Challenges and Importance of Integrity in Leadership * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the challenges of being a superintendent and the importance of integrity in leadership. * Andi emphasizes the need for building trust through shared experiences and consistent communication with stakeholders. * Andi shares her approach to building relationships with staff, association leaders, and city officials to foster trust and collaboration. * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the importance of being visible and accessible to the community and the impact of positive leadership on student outcomes. AI and Technology in Education * Drew Schlosberg and Andrée discuss the role of AI and technology in education and how it can be used to improve efficiency and outcomes. * Andrée explains how AI tools are embedded in various departments to support instructional planning and scheduling. * Andrée emphasizes the importance of having guard rails to ensure the safe and effective use of AI tools. * Andy shares how her district is addressing AI through community forums and board policies to ensure responsible implementation. Special Education Funding and Challenges * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the complexities of funding special education and the challenges districts face in providing adequate support. * Andi explains the differences in funding between basic aid districts and those receiving concentration funding. * Andi highlights the importance of maximizing dollars and leveraging resources to support special education programs. * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the need for better public understanding of special education funding and the challenges districts face. Supporting Positive Education Stories * Drew Schlosberg and Andi discuss the importance of sharing positive education stories to counteract negative perceptions. * Andi emphasizes the need for effective communication and public relations to highlight the positive work being done in schools. * Andrée highlights the importance of collaboration among school leaders and communities to address common challenges. * Drew Schlosberg and the guests discuss the role of organizations like the Classroom of the Future Foundation and Schools First Federal Credit Union in supporting positive education initiatives. Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!  The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/ About Cloudcast Media   "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.

Season 4, Episode 19 | Belonging, AI, and Future Ready Students: Inside Rural School Districts With Dr. Heather Golly and Kelly Baas

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 19 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged"  This episode of "Future Pathways:Superintendents Unplugged" podcast episode features Dr. Heather Golly from Bonsall Unified School District and Kelly Baas from Spencer Valley Elementary School District. They discuss the challenges and rewards of running rural school districts, including limited resources, transportation issues, and the impact of AI on education. Both emphasize the importance of community, effective communication, and preparing students for future-ready skills. They highlight the unique aspects of their districts, such as Bonsall's Purple Star designation for military support and Spencer Valley's small, family-oriented community. The episode also touches on the critical need for special education funding and the support from sponsors like Schools First Federal Credit Union. Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Districts * Kelly Baas discusses the stability of families in Spencer Valley, the small size of the district, and the use of combo classes. * Dr. Heather Golly talks about the enrollment and growth of Bonsall, the unique geography of the district, and the impact of new housing developments. * Dr. Heather Golly explains the Purple Star designation for schools that serve military students and families exceptionally well. Addressing AI and Technology in Education * Kelly Baas discusses the limited use of devices in Spencer Valley, the focus on paper and pencil, and the challenges of AI in education. * Dr. Heather Golly shares the concerns and professional development efforts around AI in Bonsall, emphasizing the importance of understanding and using AI as a tool. * Both superintendents agree on the need for educators to be aware of and use AI responsibly to support student learning. Preparing Students for the Future * Dr. Heather Golly outlines the framework for the future in Bonsall, focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, empathy, collaboration, and effective communication. * Dr. Heather Golly describes the academies in Bonsall, aligned with the early college program, and the pathways for students in law and leadership, medical and health, computer science and engineering, and media arts. * Kelly Baas discusses the focus on well-rounded students in Spencer Valley, emphasizing compassion, kindness, and teamwork. * Both superintendents agree on the importance of preparing students for a future-ready work environment and the role of education in fostering these skills. Transportation and Distance Challenges * Kelly Baas explains the lack of transportation in Spencer Valley, the impact of weather on school operations, and the reliance on parents for daily transportation. * Dr. Heather Golly discusses the transportation challenges in Bonsall, the need for strategic planning to provide opportunities for students, and the impact of geography on access to resources. * Both superintendents highlight the importance of overcoming transportation barriers to ensure students can participate in extracurricular activities and access necessary services. Special Education and Staffing Challenges * Dr. Heather Golly discusses the challenges of finding qualified special education teachers and paraprofessionals in Bonsall. * Kelly Baas shares the success of working with the Selpa to provide specialized services for students in Spencer Valley, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and mental health counseling. * Both superintendents highlight the underfunding of special education and the impact on district resources and staffing. Support from Schools First Federal Credit Union * Dr. Heather Golly shares an example of how Schools First Federal Credit Union supported Bonsall by providing seat cushions for professional development days. * Kelly Baas discusses the positive relationship with Schools First, including their participation in staff events and the popularity of their financial services among staff members. * Both superintendents express gratitude for the support and partnership from Schools First in enhancing the quality of education and staff well-being. Reflecting on Favorite Teachers * Kelly Baas shares a story about her high school Spanish teacher, who inspired her love for the language and led her to become a Spanish major. * Dr. Heather Golly recalls her senior English teacher, Mrs. Flores, who fostered a sense of community, autonomy, and a passion for literature in her students. * Both superintendents reflect on the lasting impact of their favorite teachers and the influence they had on their careers in education. Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!  The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/ About Cloudcast Media   "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.

Season 4, Episode 18 | Human-Centered AI-Innovation with Poway Unified’s Dr. Ben Churchill, Amy Fousek, and F3 Law's Gretchen Shipley

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 18 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged"  The discussion on this episode of "Future Pathways Superintendents Unplugged" focused on the integration of AI in education - a topic both timely and necessary.  Dr. Ben Churchill, Superintendent of Poway Unified School District, joined by Amy Fousek with Poway Unified, and F3 Law's Gretchen Shipley highlighted the spectrum of reactions to AI, from enthusiasts to those concerned about long-term impacts. Amy Fousek emphasized the importance of AI literacy and digital citizenship, noting their partnership with Common Sense Media. Gretchen Shipley stressed the need for data privacy protocols and human oversight. The panel agreed on the importance of a human-centered approach, ethical use, and engaging all stakeholders in the conversation about AI in education. Guest Introductions and Backgrounds * Drew introduces Dr. Ben Churchill, the Superintendent of Poway Unified, Amy Fousek, Director of Educational Technology for Poway Unified, who shares her early interest in education and her journey from the classroom to the district office. * Amy discusses her 15 years of experience in the classroom and her transition to educational technology, focusing on leveraging technology to enhance student learning. * Gretchen Shipley, Managing Partner of F3 Law, shares her background in education law, inspired by a student protest she led in high school. * Gretchen explains her transition from wanting to be a teacher to becoming an education lawyer, highlighting her 25 years of experience in the field. AI in Education: Initial Involvement and Reactions * Ben Churchill discusses his initial exposure to large language models (LLMs) about three years ago while still at Carlsbad, noting the rapid evolution of AI in education. * Ben describes the spectrum of reactions to AI in schools, from enthusiasts who see potential in learning, productivity, and collaboration to those concerned about long-term impacts on learning and brain development. * Ben emphasizes the need for school districts to bridge the divide by being intentional and thoughtful in their use of AI, listening to both sides of the argument, and fostering critical thinking and discourse. * Amy highlights the importance of professional learning and partnership with parents to ensure students have the foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills to evaluate AI outputs. AI Literacy and Standards in Education * Drew asks about the development of standards for AI literacy in education, and Amy explains their partnership with Common Sense Media and other companies to provide AI lessons for teachers. * Amy mentions their goal of expanding AI literacy lessons across the district and meeting with teachers to identify foundational skills necessary for students to use AI safely, ethically, and responsibly. * Drew introduces the concept of AI literacy standards and asks if they are being developed by districts, with Amy confirming their efforts to integrate AI literacy into existing digital citizenship lessons. * Ben discusses the importance of having a policy in place to govern the use of AI in schools, emphasizing the need for clear expectations and training for staff and students. Legal and Policy Considerations for AI in Schools * Gretchen Shipley discusses the legal aspects of integrating AI in schools, comparing it to the early adoption of social media and the need for strategic and intentional integration. * Gretchen highlights the importance of student data privacy and the need for school districts to have policies and protocols in place to ensure compliance with data privacy agreements. * Gretchen emphasizes the need for staff training on vetting free AI platforms and ensuring they meet safety parameters, especially for generative AI like ChatGPT. * Ben shares his experience of presenting at the ninth annual CFF College Career Pathways Summit, where he discussed the importance of having a governing board policy on AI to guide the organization's use of AI tools. Human-Centered Approach to AI in Education * Amy stresses the importance of a human-centered approach to AI, ensuring that AI tools are seen as assistants and that students have the skills to deeply analyze AI outputs. * Drew and Ben discuss the importance of human interaction and the need for students to develop critical thinking, communication, and creativity skills. * Ben reflects on the challenges of teaching in the modern era, where teachers are responsible for both content and social-emotional development, and the potential of AI to help save teachers' time on rote tasks. * Drew shares a personal story about his favorite teacher, Mrs. Dukey, and asks the other guests to share their favorite teachers, highlighting the impact of great teachers on students' lives. Final Thoughts and Takeaways * Gretchen emphasizes the importance of integrating AI safely and responsibly, citing a US executive order that highlights AI's critical role in K-12 education. * Ben advises bringing as many people into the conversation about AI, including parents, staff, and students, to ensure a broad understanding and engagement. * Amy highlights the need for common language and ethical and digital safeguards as schools evolve with AI. * Drew concludes the session by encouraging listeners to reach out to the guests for further discussions and resources on AI in education, emphasizing the importance of ongoing conversations and collaboration. Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!  The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/ About Cloudcast Media   "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.

Season 4, Episode 17 | Wearing Many Hats: Small-District Leadership with Ilsa Garza-Gonzalez & Brenda Mefford

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 17 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged"  The discussion features Ilsa Garza-Gonzalez, Superintendent of Fallbrook Union High School District, and Brenda Mefford, Chief Business Officer. They highlight the challenges and importance of a strong relationship between a Superintendent and CBO. Ilsa emphasizes the need for trust and communication, while Brenda discusses the financial pressures, particularly in special education, where costs increase but funding does not. They also touch on the importance of community support and the role of small school districts in providing necessary resources. The conversation underscores the critical role of both leaders in ensuring the District's success. Introduction of Guests and Initial Conversation * Drew welcomes Ilsa Garza Gonzalez and Brenda Mefford, Chief Business Officer for Fallbrook Union High School District. * Ilsa thanks Drew for inviting her and expresses her support for the show and the Classroom of the Future Foundation. * Drew and Ilsa discuss the importance of supporting students and the abundance of content to share about the district. * Brenda introduces herself and shares her journey from an accounting technician to the Chief Business Officer, highlighting her roles and responsibilities. Role and Responsibilities of a Chief Business Officer * Brenda explains her responsibilities, including finance, risk management, maintenance and operations, transportation, budget, interim reports, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking, bonds, nutrition services, and technology. * Ilsa adds that in a small school district, the Chief Business Officer wears many hats and oversees various non-instructional and human resources aspects. * Brenda shares her experience of starting as an accounting technician and progressing to her current role, emphasizing the importance of quality work and support from the superintendent. * Drew and Ilsa discuss the importance of the Chief Business Officer in supporting the superintendent and the District's operations. Ilsa's Journey into Education and Leadership * Ilsa shares her journey into education, starting as a clerical substitute and working in various offices, including the discipline office. * She realized she didn't have the patience to be a teacher but enjoyed the accounting and business side of education. * Ilsa decided to switch her major to business and obtained a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. * Drew and Ilsa discuss the importance of administrative roles and the early interest Ilsa had in becoming an administrator. Building Trust and Collaboration between Superintendent and CBO * Ilsa emphasizes the importance of trust and communication between the superintendent and the Chief Business Officer. * She shares her initial transparency about her lack of financial expertise and how Brenda helped her understand the district's financial systems. * Elsa and Brenda discuss the importance of position control and the need for accurate data to make informed decisions. * Drew highlights the importance of communication and trust in building a strong leadership team. Challenges of Small School Districts * Brenda discusses the challenges of working in a small school district, including the lack of staff and the need to handle multiple responsibilities. * She shares her experience of preparing reports and calculations for negotiations and the importance of having a business consultant for checks and balances. * Ilsa and Brenda discuss the importance of understanding the community's needs and the challenges of providing transportation and other services. * Drew emphasizes the importance of community support and the role of the superintendent in building relationships with local organizations and businesses. Special Education and Resource Allocation * Brenda discusses the challenges of managing the special education budget and the increasing population of special education students. * She shares the difficulties of finding paraprofessionals and the high costs of paying agencies for specialized services. * Ilsa and Brenda discuss the importance of advocating for full funding of IDEA and the need for legislative action to address the funding gap. * Drew highlights the public's lack of understanding about the challenges of special education and the need for better communication and awareness. Importance of Community Support and Engagement * Ilsa emphasizes the importance of community support and engagement in a small school district. * She shares her involvement in local organizations like Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce and the benefits of community partnerships. * Brenda discusses the role of the Chief Business Officer in building relationships with local businesses and organizations. * Drew highlights the importance of community involvement and the impact of small gestures in building strong relationships and support for the district. Personal Reflections and Favorite Teachers * Drew asks Ilsa and Brenda about their favorite teachers and the impact they had on their lives. * Ilsa shares her fond memories of various teachers who inspired her and the importance of creative and supportive teaching. * Brenda recalls her fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Alperin, who encouraged her to push herself academically and supported her growth. * Drew reflects on the importance of favorite teachers and the lasting impact they have on students' lives. Supporting Education and Future Pathways * Drew asks the audience how they can support education and the work of Superintendents and Chief Business Officers. * Brenda emphasizes the need for community members to understand the challenges of school funding and to advocate for better resources. * Ilsa highlights the importance of community involvement and the need for support in providing transportation and other essential services. * Drew encourages the audience to visit schools, volunteer, and stay informed about the needs of their local school districts. Conclusion and Future Plans * Drew thanks Ilsa and Brenda for their participation and highlights the importance of their work in supporting students and the community. * Ilsa and Brenda express their appreciation for the opportunity to share their experiences and insights. * Drew announces the continuation of the show for another year and the potential for future episodes with Ilsa and Brenda. * The show concludes with a reminder of the collaboration between Cloudcast Media, the Classroom of the Future Foundation, the Center for Educational Innovation, and Schools First Federal Credit Union. Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!  The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/ About Cloudcast Media   "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.

Season 4, Episode 16 | Brad Johnson and Jessica Spallino Discuss The Big Vision Behind The Dehesa School District & Method Sports Academy

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 16 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged"  Introduction to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged * Drew Schlosberg, provides additional details about the show, including its sponsors and the mission of promoting excellence in teaching and learning. * Drew introduces Brad Johnson, the Superintendent of the Dehesa School District, and Jessica Spallino, CEO of Method Schools, as the guests for the episode. Overview of Method Schools and Its Mission * Jessica Spallino explains that Method Schools was founded 13 years ago to provide non-traditional modalities for students who need something different from the traditional setting. * The mission of Method Schools is to offer flexible and personalized learning, especially for students who struggle in traditional settings. * Jessica shares her background in independent study and how it inspired her to create Method Schools, which offers a flexible online modality and a new site-based program for student athletes. * The partnership between Method Schools and Dehesa School District is highlighted, with Jessica discussing the unique site-based program for student athletes. Brad Johnson's Journey into Education and Superintendency * Brad Johnson shares his background, including his blue-collar family and siblings who struggled in traditional school settings. * Brad's journey into education began when he met someone who worked at a charter school and was hired as a curriculum writer. * He recounts a memorable experience with a student and his mother, which solidified his commitment to helping students on a deeper level. * Brad discusses his transition from teaching to working in school business, consulting for school districts, and eventually becoming a Superintendent. Challenges and Opportunities in Educational Leadership * Brad talks about the challenges of leading a small, one-school district and the impact of COVID-19 on the district's enrollment and programs. * The partnership between Dehesa School District and Method Schools is discussed, with Brad highlighting the benefits of the Sports Academy program. * Jessica shares the process of creating the Sports Academy program and the initial challenges of offering in-person learning for students outside of Dehesa's boundaries. * The success of the pilot program and the growth of enrollment in the Sports Academy are highlighted, with plans for future expansion. Impact of the Sports Academy on Students and Families * Brad and Jessica discuss the positive impact of the Sports Academy on students, including improved academic performance and increased confidence. * Jessica shares her excitement about reaching students who are not traditional athletes but still benefit from the flexible learning modality. * The integration of sports lessons into classroom instruction is discussed, with teachers finding creative ways to connect sports with academic subjects. * The importance of a supportive family environment for students in the Sports Academy is emphasized, with families playing a crucial role in their children's success. Future Plans and Expansion for Method Schools and Tahisa School District * Jessica outlines the future plans for Method Schools, including expanding sports offerings and recruiting more coaches and trainers. * Brad discusses the challenges of managing growth and the need for additional facilities and resources to support the expanding program. * The potential for partnerships with local sports teams and organizations is explored, with plans to provide high-quality athletic training to more students. * The importance of maintaining a balance between traditional classroom programs and the Sports Academy is emphasized, with a focus on creating a supportive community for all students. Personal Insights and Passions of Brad and Jessica * Brad shares his passion for DIY projects, particularly tiling, and his long-term goal of remodeling houses in retirement. * Jessica discusses her enthusiasm for Method Schools and the joy of seeing students thrive in the Sports Academy program. * The importance of personal interests and hobbies in maintaining a balanced life is highlighted, with both Brad and Jessica sharing their personal passions. * The conversation concludes with a discussion on how the various organizations involved in the show can support the work of Method Schools and Dehesa School District. Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues!  The Presenting Sponsor for Season 4 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/ About Cloudcast Media   "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.