The Superintendent Effect

What It Really Takes to Lead a School District with Dr. Melissa Stager

Dr. Melissa Stager, Superintendent of Clinton Township School District and former educator at the New Jersey Department of Education, joins Chief Strategy Officer Mark Welling on The Superintendent Effect to discuss her lifelong commitment to strengthening public education and expanding opportunity for every student. In this special episode, Dr. Stager shares the story behind her district's ambitious "80 Percent in 3" literacy initiative, her approach to empowering teachers through grassroots leadership, and why protecting student mental health resources remains a non-negotiable priority. She also opens up about the mentors who shaped her career, what it truly means to lead with purpose, and her belief that every child — regardless of zip code — deserves access to a quality public education. Don't miss her story.

The Human Side of School Leadership with Dr. Cory Steiner

Dr. Cory Steiner, Superintendent of Fargo Public Schools, joins Anne Brown to reflect on his leadership journey, from rural Northern Cass to one of North Dakota's largest urban districts. He shares the philosophy driving his work: removing barriers for families, pioneering mental health services in schools, and championing the idea that every adult in a building is an educator. Dr. Steiner also opens up about the Portraits of a Learner, Educator, and Leader framework, the role vulnerability plays in authentic leadership, and a deeply personal story about accountability and the community that showed up for him when it mattered most. A candid conversation about hope, trust, and what it truly means to put students first.

Building Planes and Breaking Barriers with Dr. Nick Migliorino

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, host and Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Nick Migliorino from Norman Public Schools in Oklahoma for a powerful conversation about visionary leadership, community partnership, and what it truly means to serve students and families. Dr. Migliorino shares his unconventional journey to the superintendency from aspiring nurse to teacher, technology innovator, and now a transformational district leader in Norman. He reflects on nearly two decades with Norman Public Schools and the bold initiatives shaping the future of education, including a groundbreaking $50 million aviation academy that is redefining student opportunity. The conversation also dives into the realities of student and staff mental health, the impact of technology on emotional well-being, and why strong systems of support are no longer optional in today’s schools. With insight, humor, and authenticity, Dr. Migliorino offers a compelling look at leadership rooted in relationships, saying “yes,” and dreaming beyond limitations. This episode is a must-listen for educators, administrators, and anyone passionate about the future of schools and communities. #SuperintendentEffect #EducationLeadership #MentalHealthInSchools #CommunityPartnership #StudentSuccess

Building Strong Schools in Rural America with Dr. Ellen Perconti

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown meets with Dr. Ellen Perconti, Superintendent of Goldendale School District 404 in rural Washington state. Dr. Perconti discusses her 7 year journey leading with a focus on well-being for both staff and students, honoring community traditions while preparing kids for the future, and redefining success through the whole child approach. She shares practical insights on de-stigmatizing mental health conversations, balancing technology with human connection, and the importance of staying true to your authentic leadership style. A thoughtful conversation about strong leadership, deep student knowing, and building resilient rural communities. Guest: Dr. Ellen PercontiHost: Anne Brown #SuperintendentEffect #RuralSchools #EducationLeadership #WellBeing #StudentSuccess #Washington #Glendale #SchoolDistrict

Community, Wellness, and Family Engagement with Dr. Brad Keating

Dr. Brad Keating, Associate Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Government Relations at Clark County School District (nearly 300,000 students), joins Anne Brown on The Superintendent Effect. From Capitol Hill to the classroom and now district leadership, Dr. Keating shares how CCSD creates a “small-town feel” in a massive district through innovative parent engagement, staff wellness initiatives, and genuine community partnerships. Highlights include: • The emotional Ceremony of Achievement that honors parents completing 50+ hours of training • The Night of Excellence celebrating educators and support staff • The fun yet meaningful Monster Dash 5K focused on mental health • Why surveying employees quarterly and carving out time for family (like coaching his son’s soccer team) matters A hopeful, practical conversation about what strong leadership and authentic connection look like in public education today. Guest: Dr. Brad Keating Host: Anne Brown, Cook Center for Human Connection The Superintendent Effect – highlighting leaders building stronger communities, one school at a time.