Episodios

  • Season 4, Episode 7 | Karl Mueller, Superintendent, Coronado Unified School District, Discusses Successful Mental Health First Aid Program

    Season 4, Episode 7 | Karl Mueller, Superintendent, Coronado Unified School District, Discusses Successful Mental Health First Aid Program
    Dec 29 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 7 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged" Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Karl Mueller, Superintendent of Coronado Unified School District, who discusses the mission of school Superintendents and the challenges they face. He highlighted the success of the "Supe Tank" initiative, which led to the implementation of a mental health first aid program for freshmen. This program, integrated into the freshman experience, aims to equip students with tools to support peers struggling with mental health issues. Mueller emphasized the importance of partnerships between schools, families, and the community, noting the evolving role of public schools in providing wraparound services. He also addressed the impact of social media on student behavior and the need for clear communication and collaboration.Karl Mueller's Contributions and Supe Tank 5.0Drew Schlosberg acknowledges Karl Mueller's contributions to the Classroom of the Future Foundation and his role in Supe Tank, an event that showcases innovation in school districts.Karl Mueller expresses gratitude for the opportunity to showcase innovation and highlights the diversity and creativity within the county's school districts.Karl Mueller shares a success story from Supe Tank 5.0, where he pitched the idea of bringing mental health first aid to every student in the Coronado Unified School District.Two years after the pitch, Coronado High School now offers a mental health first aid component to all freshmen as part of their freshman Islander experience.Impact of Mental Health First Aid ProgramKarl Mueller explains the importance of mental health first aid, comparing it to CPR certification and emphasizing its role in providing students with resources and tools to support peers struggling with mental health issues.The program is integrated into the freshman Islander experience, a nine-week high school boot camp that includes college planning, career options, and dual enrollment partnerships.By the end of their high school experience, every graduate from Coronado High School will have completed the mental health first aid training and received a certificate.Drew Schlosberg emphasizes the importance of mental health programs, noting the current mental health crisis among youth and the long-term benefits of such initiatives.Partnerships and Community InvolvementKarl Mueller discusses the importance of partnerships between schools, families, and the community in developing children.He highlights the role of public schools in providing wraparound services, including early morning care, breakfast, mental health supports, and after-school resources.Karl emphasizes the need for public schools to operate as part of a larger ecosystem, rather than in isolation, and the importance of collaboration and communication with community partners.He shares examples of how public schools have taken on additional responsibilities in recent decades, including providing social emotional development programs and character-building curricula.Challenges of Social Media and Media InfluenceKarl Mueller addresses the impact of social media on students, noting its potential to disrupt and distract on campus and influence behaviors that contradict school values.He acknowledges the difficulty of monitoring students' online activities and the challenges of holding schools accountable for behaviors that occur off-campus.Karl discusses the new state legislation that restricts cell phone use during instructional time and the challenges of enforcing similar restrictions during non-instructional time.He emphasizes the need for partnerships with parents to educate them about social media and the importance of setting clear expectations and consequences for online behavior.Balancing Responsibilities and Setting BoundariesKarl Mueller discusses the need to set boundaries and communicate expectations clearly to students, parents, and the community.He highlights the importance of assuming good intent and working collaboratively to address challenges and reinforce positive behaviors.Karl Mueller shares an example of a conversation with a parent about the challenges of managing student behavior and the need for mutual understanding and respect.He emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for students to learn and grow, and the role of public schools in preparing students for their next chapter in life.Conclusion Drew Schlosberg thanks Karl Mueller for his insights and contributions to the show, highlighting the importance of partnerships and collaboration in education.Karl provides his email address for listeners who want to continue the conversation and learn more about his approach to education and partnerships.Drew reiterates the importance of mutual understanding and respect in developing successful ...
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    42 m
  • Season 4, Episode 6 | Jocelyn Gomez, Vanessa Cesena, Leighangela Brady Discuss Collaboration, Trust, And Inclusivity In School Leadership

    Season 4, Episode 6 | Jocelyn Gomez, Vanessa Cesena, Leighangela Brady Discuss Collaboration, Trust, And Inclusivity In School Leadership
    Dec 26 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

    Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Jocelyn Gomez, Administrative Assistant, Vanessa Cesena, Administrative Assistant, and Leighangela Brady, Superintendent at National School District.

    Introduction of Guests and Theme for the Year
    • Drew Schlosberg introduces Dr. Leighangela Brady, the superintendent of the National School District, and her colleagues, Jocelyn Gomez and Vanessa Cesena.
    • Dr. Leighangela Brady discusses the theme for the year, "Being in Sync," which emphasizes working together and ensuring everyone is rowing in the same direction.
    • The importance of collaboration and teamwork is highlighted, with a focus on making sure everyone is on the same page.
    Work Environment and Personal Touch
    • Jocelyn and Vanessa share their positive experiences working with Dr. Leighangela, emphasizing her inclusivity and thoughtfulness.
    • Examples of Dr. Leighangela's actions, such as baking banana bread and singing, are shared, highlighting her ability to create a fun and supportive work environment.
    • The importance of having a supportive and inclusive work environment is discussed, with a focus on making work feel less like work.
    Role of Admins in Supporting the Superintendent
    • Jocelyn and Vanessa discuss their roles in supporting Dr. Leighangela, including managing her calendar, scheduling meetings, and ensuring communication is seamless.
    • The importance of being a gatekeeper and point of contact for the district is emphasized, with a focus on keeping Dr. Leighangela informed and supported.
    • The relationship between the superintendent and the board is discussed, with a focus on anticipating needs and maintaining open communication.
    Building Trust and Relationships
    • The importance of trust between the superintendent and her admins is highlighted, with a focus on building strong relationships.
    • Dr. Leighangela shares her approach to building trust, including annual retreats and activities that encourage open communication and feedback.
    • The role of the admins in providing support and feedback to the superintendent is discussed, with a focus on creating a supportive and collaborative environment.
    Handling Crises and Emergencies
    • The admins share their experiences handling crises, such as the 2024 floods, and the importance of staying calm and focused.
    • The role of communication in managing crises is emphasized, with a focus on keeping families and staff informed and supported.
    • Dr. Leighangela discusses the importance of shared and distributed leadership, allowing her admins to make decisions in her absence.
    Advice for New Superintendents and Admins
    • The admins provide advice for new superintendents, emphasizing the importance of regular meetings, building relationships, and creating a supportive environment.
    • Dr. Leighangela shares her approach to working with admins, including making time for regular meetings and building strong relationships.
    • The importance of celebrating small wins and creating a joyful work environment is discussed, with a focus on boosting morale and maintaining a positive attitude.
    Final Thoughts and Reflections
    • Dr. Leighangela reflects on her first day as a superintendent and the importance of having trustworthy and supportive admins.
    • The admins express their gratitude for the opportunity to work with Dr. Leighangela and the impact she has had on the district and community.
    • The show concludes with a focus on the importance of collaboration, trust, and building a supportive work environment.

    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/
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    41 m
  • Season 4, Episode 5 | Dr. Kristin Baranski, Dr. Kristen Bonser, and Superintendent Leighangela Brady

    Season 4, Episode 5 | Dr. Kristin Baranski, Dr. Kristen Bonser, and Superintendent Leighangela Brady
    Dec 12 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 5 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

    Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Kristin Baranski, Superintendent of the Santee School District, Kristen Bonser, Principle of Pride Academy, and Leighangela Brady, Superintendent at National School School District

    Discussion on Purple Star School Districts
    • Drew Schlosberg asks Dr. Kristin Baranski to explain what a Purple Star District is.
    • Dr. Baranski explains that schools can apply to become Purple Star Schools, which support military-connected families.
    • Dr. Kristen Bonser adds that the criteria for becoming a Purple Star School involve community involvement and support for military families.
    • Drew Schlosberg discusses the importance of supporting military-connected students and the challenges they face, such as social-emotional support and frequent moves.
    Challenges and Support for Military-Connected Students
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Bonser discuss the challenges military-connected students face, including anxiety and difficulty making new friends.
    • Dr. Bonser highlights the importance of community involvement and support from military liaisons.
    • Drew Schlosberg mentions federal legislation that helps military-connected students transfer credits between districts.
    • Dr. Baranski discusses the impact of international moves on military-connected students and the district's efforts to support them.
    Staff Training and Community Involvement
    • Leighangela Brady, asks about staff training to support military-connected students.
    • Dr. Bonser explains that training focuses on social-emotional support and trauma-informed care.
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Baranski discuss the importance of working with military spouses and the role of the San Diego Military Advisory Council.
    • Dr. Bonser shares the success of military family nights and other community events in building connections among military families.
    Communication and Support for Deployed Parents
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Baranski discuss the importance of communication with deployed parents and the use of tools like Parent Square.
    • Dr. Baranski shares examples of how the district supports deployed parents, including virtual parent-teacher conferences.
    • Leighangela Brady, raises concerns about cybersecurity and the impact on military families' ability to connect with schools.
    • Dr. Bonser highlights the power of photos and regular updates in maintaining connections with military families.
    Community Support and Involvement
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Baranski discuss the role of the military in community efforts and the district's partnerships with local bases.
    • Dr. Bonser shares examples of how the military supports the district, including volunteering and hosting leadership retreats.
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Bonser discuss the importance of community support and the role of local businesses and nonprofits in supporting military-connected students.
    • Dr. Baranski shares examples of how the district collaborates with local organizations to support military families.
    Conclusion and Call to Action
    • Drew Schlosberg and Dr. Baranski discuss ways listeners can support military-connected students, including being neighborly and getting to know their neighbors.
    • Dr. Bonser highlights the importance of community involvement and the district's efforts to support military families.
    • Leighangela Brady, shares her takeaways from the discussion, emphasizing the importance of intentional support and community involvement.
    • Drew Schlosberg thanks the guests and hosts, encouraging listeners to learn more about Purple Star Schools and support military-connected students.

    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/
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    40 m
  • Season 4, Episode 4 | Superintendents Pat Keeley and Andrea Sissons Discuss Infrastructure and Water Issues For Small Districts

    Season 4, Episode 4 | Superintendents Pat Keeley and Andrea Sissons Discuss Infrastructure and Water Issues For Small Districts
    Dec 7 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

    Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Superintendents Dr. Patrick Keeley (Mountain Empire High School District) and Andrea Sissons (Warner Unified).

    Backgrounds of Dr. Patrick Keeley and Andrea Sissons
    • Dr. Patrick Keeley shares his journey into education, starting as a history teacher and eventually becoming a school administrator.
    • Patrick discusses his unique experience of returning to his alma mater, Mountain Empire High School, as the principal and later the superintendent.
    • Andrea Sissons talks about her career path, initially wanting to be a lawyer but eventually finding a passion for human resources and education.
    • Andrea describes her transition from working in business management to becoming a business manager for a charter school and eventually taking on her current role at Warner Unified School District.
    Challenges of Rural School Districts: Water Issues
    • Dr. Patrick Keeley discusses the challenges of providing clean drinking water in rural districts, emphasizing the importance of water as a basic need.
    • Patrick explains the issues with well water in his district, including high nitrates and uranium levels, and the ongoing efforts to address these problems.
    • Andrea Sissons shares her experience with arsenic in the water at Warner Unified School District and the difficulties of dealing with old and failing wells.
    • Both Patrick and Andrea highlight the financial burden and the impact on their ability to allocate resources for other educational needs.
    Systemic Inequities and Bureaucratic Challenges
    • Dr. Patrick Keeley elaborates on the systemic inequities faced by rural schools, particularly in terms of water infrastructure and funding.
    • Patrick discusses the bureaucratic hurdles involved in addressing water issues, including multiple state agencies and the lack of funding.
    • Andrea Sissons adds her perspective, mentioning the arbitrary and lengthy processes involved in getting a new well dug.
    • Both speakers emphasize the need for a political solution to streamline the process and provide funding for immediate and ongoing water needs in rural schools.
    Call to Action and Future Steps
    • Dr. Patrick Keeley and Andrea Sissons call for increased awareness and action from lawmakers and state agencies to address the water issues in rural schools.
    • Patrick mentions his efforts to collaborate with other small school districts and the Small School Districts Association to raise awareness.
    • Andrea highlights the importance of showing the human impact of these issues, including the health and well-being of students.
    • Drew Schlosberg encourages listeners to contact the Superintendents and support their efforts to bring attention to this critical issue.
    Conclusion and Personal Passions
    • Drew Schlosberg wraps up the episode by expressing gratitude to the guests and highlighting the importance of the discussion.
    • Patrick Keeley shares his passion for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, mentioning his annual attendance since 2010.
    • Andrea Sissons talks about her current passion for raising her children and ensuring their success.
    • The episode 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/
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    45 m
  • Season 4, Episode 3 | Superintendents, Rich Newman And Mark Stevens Discuss Leadership Stories From Small Rural Schools

    Season 4, Episode 3 | Superintendents, Rich Newman And Mark Stevens Discuss Leadership Stories From Small Rural Schools
    Nov 21 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 3 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

    Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Rich Newman and Mark Stevens, superintendents of Alpine Union School District and Borrego Springs Unified School District, respectively, who discussed their journeys and challenges. Newman highlighted his 10-year tenure, emphasizing the importance of community connections and innovative programs like engineering labs. Stevens shared his legacy in education, noting the impact of removing phones from campuses to improve mental health and behavior. Both stressed the significance of continuous learning and growing local talent. They also underscored the importance of mental health support, with Newman mentioning increased social workers and wellness coaches, and Stevens noting reduced bullying post-phone ban.

    Guest Introduction and Initial Questions
    • Drew Schlosberg introduces Dr. Rich Newman, superintendent of the Alpine Union School District, and Dr. Mark Stevens, superintendent of Borrego Springs Unified School District.
    • Dr. Leighangela Brady, chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation, is introduced as the co-host.
    • Dr. Rich Newman shares his journey from struggling to read in fourth grade to becoming a superintendent, inspired by a teacher named Mrs. Kapka.
    • Dr. Newman emphasizes his commitment to empowering all students and being a champion for them.
    Challenges and Rewards of Being a Superintendent
    • Dr. Newman discusses the transition from a large school district to a small one, highlighting the nimbleness and personal connections in small districts.
    • Dr. Mark Stevens shares his background, mentioning his parents' influence and the legacy of education in his family.
    • Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about the preparation for being a superintendent, with Dr. Stevens emphasizing the importance of taking on responsibility and continuous learning.
    • Dr. Newman adds that being grounded in one's values is crucial for navigating the challenges and politics of the role.
    Relationship with School Boards
    • Dr. Newman discusses the importance of building a professional relationship with the school board, emphasizing clarity on roles and mutual respect.
    • Dr. Stevens agrees, stating that a supportive board is essential for a superintendent to do their job effectively.
    • Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about the impact of the pandemic on their roles, with Dr. Newman highlighting the increased focus on mental health and wellness.
    • Dr. Stevens mentions the positive impact of removing phones from campuses on student behavior and mental health.
    Personal Stories and Interests
    • Dr. Mark Stevens shares his family life, including his five children and their various activities.
    • Dr. Rich Newman talks about his avid gardening as a form of therapy and his wife's role as an assistant principal.
    • Dr. Newman also mentions his dream of opening a coffee shop for students with special needs.
    • The conversation highlights the personal and professional balance that these superintendents maintain.
    Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks
    • Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about their decision to stay in their current districts, with both Dr. Newman and Dr. Stevens emphasizing the deep connections and sense of purpose they have in their communities.
    • Dr. Newman and Dr. Stevens discuss the importance of growing their own leaders and the unique culture of small districts.
    • The show concludes with Drew Schlosberg thanking the guests and co-host, and providing information about the sponsors and the podcast series.



    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/
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    48 m
  • Season 4, Episode 2 | Superintendents, Scott Goergens, Lakeside Union School District, and Brian Thurman, Ramona Unified School District

    Season 4, Episode 2 | Superintendents, Scott Goergens, Lakeside Union School District, and Brian Thurman, Ramona Unified School District
    Nov 14 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged." Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with Scott Goergens and Brian Thurman, superintendents from Lakeside Union and Ramona Unified School Districts, respectively. They highlighted the importance of CTE programs, particularly in agricultural districts, and the positive impact on student engagement and career readiness. Both districts emphasized community support, with examples like local businesses and organizations contributing significantly. Mental health initiatives, such as wellness centers and mindfulness programs, were also discussed. The conversation underscored the need for consistent focus on student needs and the role of community connections in enhancing educational outcomes.Guest Introductions and Initial GreetingsDrew Schlosberg, introduces himself and the show, highlighting the involvement of various organizations.Guests Scott Goergens (Lakeside Union School District) and Dr. Brian Thurman (Ramona Unified School District) are introduced.Dr. Leighangela Brady, co-host and superintendent of National School District, is also introduced.The guests express positive sentiments about the start of the school year and their roles.Scott Goergens' Background and Role at LakesideScott shares his history with Lakeside, mentioning his previous role as a principal and his return after a brief absence.He reminisces about working with Dr. Rhonda Taylor and other colleagues.Scott discusses the dynamic nature of his role and the continuous improvement required in education.He highlights the importance of CTE programs and the various opportunities they provide for students.Brian Thurman's Experience at Ramona and CTE ProgramsBrian shares his experience at Ramona, mentioning his fourth year in the role and the dynamic nature of the position.He discusses the importance of CTE programs, particularly in an agricultural district, and the real-world experiences they offer.Brian mentions specific CTE pathways at Ramona, including ag welding, wood shop, and small engines courses.He highlights the competitive nature of these programs and the opportunities they provide for students.Challenges and Opportunities in CTE ProgramsScott and Brian discuss the challenges of integrating CTE programs into middle school curricula.They emphasize the importance of exposing students to various career paths at an early age.The conversation touches on the need for business connections and community support to sustain these programs.Scott shares an example of a local company expressing interest in hiring eighth graders based on their project work.Community Support and Business ConnectionsScott and Brian discuss the importance of community support and business connections in their districts.They share examples of how local businesses and community members have supported their schools.The conversation highlights the benefits of having invested community members who are willing to partner with schools.Scott mentions the role of the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce in fostering these connections.Impact of CTE Programs on Students and CommunityBrian discusses the impact of CTE programs on students, including increased motivation and improved academic performance.He shares examples of students who have been positively influenced by CTE programs and have gone on to pursue successful careers.The conversation touches on the importance of connecting CTE programs with other subject areas to provide a comprehensive education.Brian mentions a signing event similar to a sports signing for construction pathway students.Mental Health and Student SupportThe conversation shifts to the topic of mental health and the challenges students face.Brian shares recent incidents of gun violence in his community and the impact on mental health.He discusses the implementation of a wellness grant and plans for a wellness center to support students' social, emotional, and mental needs.Scott mentions the importance of self-care for educators and the role of programs like VEBA in providing support.Purpose and Mental Health ConnectionLeighangela Brady asks about the connection between purpose and mental health through CTE programs.Brian shares examples of students who have found purpose and improved their mental health through CTE programs.The conversation highlights the importance of providing students with meaningful and engaging educational experiences.Scott mentions the role of project-based learning in reducing stress and improving student performance.Supporting CTE and Mental Health InitiativesThe guests discuss ways the community can support CTE and mental health initiatives in schools.Scott emphasizes the importance of reaching out to school leaders to find out how to best support their programs.Brian mentions the role of community organizations like North ...
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    39 m
  • Season 4, Episode 1 | Dr. Gloria Ciriza, Superintendent, San Diego County Office of Education and Dr. Leighangela Brady

    Season 4, Episode 1 | Dr. Gloria Ciriza, Superintendent, San Diego County Office of Education and Dr. Leighangela Brady
    Nov 6 2025
    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 1 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged." Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with the Superintendent of the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), Dr. Gloria Ciriza and Dr. Leighangela Brady, the Superintendent of the National School District and Co-Chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation. In her role as the leader of SDCOE, Dr. Ciriza leads an organization which supports school leaders, teachers, and students across 780​ schools, 480,000 students in total, including the children we educate each year through the Juvenile Court and Community Schools. SDCOE provides a variety of services for the 43 school districts, 128 charter schools, and five community college districts in the county. The discussion highlights the unique collaboration among San Diego County's 43 superintendents, emphasizing their collective efforts in education. Key points include the importance of cybersecurity, strengthening networks to support student well-being, and the Community of Practice series to foster empathetic leadership among Superintendents.Introduction of Guests and SponsorsDrew Schlosberg, introduces the launch of season four of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."Drew welcomes two CFF board members: Dr. Gloria Ciriza, County Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Leighangela Brady, incoming Chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation.Drew highlights the involvement of the Classroom of the Future Foundation, the Center for Educational Innovation, Cloudcast Media and SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union in supporting the podcast.Drew emphasizes the unique collaboration and support from sponsors like Schools First Federal Credit Union, who actively participate in events and support the community.Unique Collaboration Among San Diego County SuperintendentsDrew discusses the unique collaboration among the 43 superintendents in San Diego County, highlighting their ability to work together and support each other.Dr. Gloria Ciriza shares her pride in working with other county superintendents and the sense of pride and joy it brings.Dr. Ciriza emphasizes the importance of coming together to face challenges and celebrate together.Drew and Dr. Ciriza discuss the importance of focusing on local issues and not letting national noise distract from local efforts.Importance of Cybersecurity in EducationDr. Leighangela Brady discusses the importance of elevating students' voices and making a difference in their schools and communities.Drew introduces the third annual Superintendent Cyber Security Summit, scheduled for October 14, 2025, at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, USD.Dr. Ciriza emphasizes the growing importance of cybersecurity and the need for school leaders to understand and protect student and staff data.Dr. Brady shares her personal experience of restructuring the technology department in her district after attending the first cybersecurity summit.Community of Practice and Empathetic LeadershipDr. Brady discusses the importance of empathetic leadership and the need for Superintendents to take care of their well-being.Dr. Brady highlights the Community of Practice series focused on surviving to thriving as an empathetic leader, in partnership with the County Office of Education.Dr. Brady shares the importance of mindfulness and self-care for Superintendents to avoid burnout and maintain their effectiveness.Drew and Dr. Brady discuss the role of the mindful leaders project and the importance of building networks and partnerships.Live Well Advance in School SummitDr. Gloria Ciriza introduces the 10th Annual Live Well Advance in School Summit, scheduled for October 22, 2025, at the San Diego Convention Center.The summit focuses on strengthening networks and relationships among educators, community leaders, and families to support student success.Dr. Ciriza emphasizes the importance of collaboration and breaking down barriers to improve resource flow and support for students and families.Drew and Dr. Ciriza discuss the significance of the summit in promoting communication and collaboration among various stakeholders.Supe Tank 5.0 and Building NetworksDr. Brady discusses the importance of building networks and partnerships through events like Supe Tank 5.0.Dr. Brady shares the success of previous Supe Tank events and the importance of Superintendents pitching their needs to potential partners.Dr. Brady highlights the innovative format of Supe Tank 5.0, combining elements of Shark Tank and The Price is Right.Drew and Dr. Brady discuss the importance of engaging partners and community members in supporting school needs and initiatives.Supporting Local Schools and Community InvolvementDr. Ciriza encourages community members to get involved and support local schools by learning about available programs and participating ...
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    36 m
  • Season 3, Episode 21 | Dr. Leighangela Brady, Jill Vinson, and Kim Pinkerton Discuss Mission and Vision Development and Implementation

    Season 3, Episode 21 | Dr. Leighangela Brady, Jill Vinson, and Kim Pinkerton Discuss Mission and Vision Development and Implementation
    Sep 19 2025
    Welcome to Season 3, Episode 21 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."

    Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring discussions with three superintendents: Dr. Leighangela Brady, Jill Vinson, and Kim Pinkerton. They shared their visions for their districts, emphasizing the importance of a strong mission and vision statements. Dr. Brady highlighted her district's focus on exceptionally prepared learners and innovative compassion. Vinson discussed Cardiff School District's goal of inspiring a love of learning and the implementation of a lifelong learner profile. Pinkerton introduced Rancho Santa Fe School District's new vision of empowering leaders and nurturing community. They also addressed challenges like time constraints, student interests, and the evolving nature of education.Action Items

    Superintendents Introduce Their Districts
    • Jill Vinson shares her 24-year tenure at the Cardiff School District, highlighting its family-like community and her daily interactions with students, teachers, and staff.
    • Kim Pinkerton discusses her 16-year tenure at the Rancho Santa Fe School District, emphasizing the dedication of the staff and the community's small, interconnected nature.
    • Leighangela Brady talks about the National School District's 154-year history and the multi-generational families it serves, stressing the tight-knit community feel.
    Journey into Education
    • Kim Pinkerton recounts her unexpected path into education, starting with a degree in theater and chemistry, and her eventual transition from teaching to administration.
    • Jill Vinson shares her initial career goal of becoming a pediatrician and her eventual shift to education, influenced by her work as a counselor and instructional aide.
    • Leighangela Brady reflects on her long career in education, including her time as a structural aid in San Diego city schools and her current role as a superintendent.
    Defining and Implementing Vision Statements
    • Leighangela Brady explains the process of creating a vision statement for the National School District, emphasizing the importance of aligning the vision with the district's core values and mission.
    • Jill Vinson discusses the strategic planning cycle and the branding exercise that led to the Cardiff School District's vision of inspiring a love of learning.
    • Kim Pinkerton shares the collaborative effort to create a new vision and mission statement for the Rancho Santa Fe School District, focusing on community, curiosity, and leadership.
    Challenges and Strategies in Education
    • Jill Vinson identifies time constraints and the need for continuous learning and reflection as major challenges for educators.
    • Kim Pinkerton highlights the importance of civil discourse and the need for a learning environment that reflects real-world learning opportunities.
    • Leighangela Brady discusses the evolving nature of the vision statement and the need for ongoing engagement and adaptation to meet the changing needs of students.
    Student-Centered Learning and Interests
    • Jill Vinson emphasizes the importance of student-centered learning and understanding students' strengths and interests to create relevant learning experiences.
    • Kim Pinkerton discusses the need for a learning environment refresh to better support real-world learning and the evolving needs of students.
    • Leighangela Brady shares her experience with classroom redesign challenges and the transformation of learning spaces to be more flexible and student-focused.
    Final Thoughts and Future Plans
    • Jill Vinson expresses gratitude for the collaboration and learning opportunities with her colleagues.
    • Kim Pinkerton highlights the value of mentorship and the willingness to borrow and share ideas among superintendents.
    • Leighangela Brady invites everyone to the upcoming Supe Tank event and encourages continued reflection and collaboration among superintendents.


    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 3 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/
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    49 m
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