Open Insights

How Dallas ISD is Changing Education with Data (Ep. 7)

How Dallas ISD is Changing Education with Data

Beyond the Diploma: Creating Opportunities for Students (Ep. 6)

Join us for another episode of the Abre Open Insights podcast! Today, host Zach Vander Veen, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Abre sits down with David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa ISD, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of educational leadership. David shares his perspective on using data to drive student success, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively, and staying connected with teachers to create a strong school culture. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of seeing students as individuals, not just members, and how Lamesa ISD is working to provide opportunities beyond graduation night. He also reflects on […]

Empowering Latino Leaders in Education (Ep. 5)

In this powerful episode of the Abre Podcast, host Zach Vander Veen sits down with Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas, Executive Director of TALAS (Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents). Drawing from her 41 years in education, Dr. Thomas shares her inspiring journey from being the daughter of a migrant worker to becoming a superintendent and now leading TALAS. Dr. Thomas discusses the vital role of TALAS in supporting Latino administrators and addressing the unique needs of Latino students, who now represent 53% of Texas’s student population. She offers insights into cultural attitudes toward education, the importance of understanding second […]

Unlocking Success Through Strategic School Communication (Ep. 4)

Tune in for another episode of the Open Insights Podcast! Today, host Zach Vander Veen, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Abre, sits down with Kristyn Cathey, Chief of Communication & Public Relations at Alief ISD. Kristyn shares insights into the successes and challenges her district faces and the vital role communication plays in managing them. From navigating difficult messages to fostering a strong sense of community, Kristyn offers valuable tips on effective school district communication. Plus, don’t miss an inspiring story to close out the episode—and a delicious dream sponsor you’ll definitely want to hear about. Be sure to […]

MTSS and Early Warning: The Importance of Good Data (Ep. 3)

Education leaders discuss the transformative role of early warning systems and data integration in supporting students, emphasizing the importance of actionable data for targeted interventions and addressing chronic absenteeism to enhance educational outcomes.