In this episode of Learning Through Technology, we sit down with Troy Sladen, Director of IT at Morongo Unified School District, and a man with deep roots in the very community he serves. From racing two-stroke motorcycles to racing against the clock during COVID, Troy’s journey is anything but typical. He shares how he went from finance major to consultant, entrepreneur, and finally tech director—navigating the evolving landscape of school technology while never losing sight of what matters most: community impact and student success.

Troy offers a rare inside look at what it means to be "the guy"—the one fixing the printer, planning five-year forecasts, and answering support calls while installing infrastructure. He also unpacks how he scaled the department strategically, managed burnout, worked cross-functionally with curriculum leaders, and turned special education tech use into one of his most profound sources of inspiration.

Key Moments

06:40 Tech Evolution: Data Storage Changes

10:17 Doctor's Warning Sparks Career Shift

11:11 Reevaluating Career Benefits

17:05 Technology Pivot During COVID

17:59 Expansion of Tech Maintenance Team

21:13 "Community-Driven Financial Stewardship"

25:12 Integrating Tech in Education

28:11 Building for Growth, Not Minimums

33:40 "Tech Transformation in Special Ed"

35:50 Project-Based Learning Engages Students

38:03 Outdated Tech Sparks New Growth

43:04 "Great Teachers Adapt and Innovate"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’ll appreciate this episode if you’ve ever built something from nothing—or wanted to. Troy Sladen brings a pragmatic, community-first mindset to the conversation, paired with clear lessons in leadership, resourcefulness, and perseverance. Whether you're a veteran tech director, an aspiring leader in edtech, or just someone who wants to understand the very human side of technology in schools, this episode delivers depth, authenticity, and actionable insight. Plus, there’s a great story about a special education classroom that might just stick with you for good.

Connect with Guest – Troy Slayden

Website: https://www.morongousd.com/page/meet-our-team

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu

LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu

Subscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, we sit down with Dr. John Morgan—CTO, former chemistry teacher, and unofficial Lord (yes, really)—to explore what it truly means to lead through chaos. Dr. Morgan shares his journey of transitioning between two school districts during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, each presenting its own challenges and opportunities for innovation.

He unpacks the ingenuity behind the "Level 0" tech ticket, a system that empowered school staff to handle basic tech issues without IT intervention—a small shift with massive impact. We dive into how his team grew through creative problem-solving, how he deliberately fosters a culture of psychological safety and experimentation, and why disagreement is not only welcome but essential.

From automation strategies to intentional talent turnover, from cyber threats to scope creep, John brings clarity, honesty, and humor to the ever-expanding role of tech in education. And yes, we cap things off with the story behind his royal title, bestowed by none other than Groupon.

Key Moments

04:28 Streamlined Tech Support Strategy

07:01 Menifee Team Growth Reflections

11:49 Encouraging Constructive Disagreement in Leadership

15:15 Funding and Data Security Challenges

16:28 Technology Challenges and Budget Uncertainty

20:09 Automating Tech with Fresh Talent

23:36 "Rapid Growth in Edutech Innovation"

26:08 Automating Tasks to Level Zero

30:02 "Final Interview Question Ritual"

33:40 "Level Zero Tech Ticket Concept"

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

You’ll love this episode if you’re a tech leader navigating change, a school administrator trying to stretch limited resources, or just someone curious about how real leadership looks in the face of uncertainty. Dr. John Morgan doesn’t just share best practices—he shares the mindset that makes them possible. It’s a conversation full of practical insights, candid reflections, and even a few good laughs. Whether you're in the trenches or at the top, this one’s for you.

Connect with Guest – Dr. John Morgan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedrmorgan

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu

LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu

Subscribe to Learning Through Technology for more conversations with the innovators shaping K-12 education.

In this episode of Learning Through Technology, Alex and Bob sit down with Dr. Brett Geithman, Superintendent of the Larkspur-Corte Madera School District in Marin County, California. Known for his visionary leadership and deep roots in education, Dr. Geithman shares how he's guided his district through transformative change, from pioneering inquiry-based learning models to rolling out a district-wide AI initiative.

Listeners will gain a behind-the-scenes look at how Brett and his team are building a forward-thinking educational ecosystem—anchored in a long-term vision called Vision 2036—that prepares students not just for high school, but for a future deeply intertwined with technology and innovation.

Brett also discusses the nuanced challenges of implementing change, including how to align stakeholders from skeptical parents to seasoned educators, and the importance of crafting tech policies that are inclusive, strategic, and deeply human-centered. The conversation also delves into how AI is being used responsibly and innovatively, not just in classrooms, but at the district level—from data analysis to administrative efficiency.

Key Moments

04:45 Ensuring Cohesive Learning Across Disciplines

08:28 AI's Role in Future Education

11:31 "BRISK AI Pilot Next Year"

16:23 Inviting Teachers to Explore AI

20:07 Diverse Inquiry into AI Integration

21:06 AI Workshop and Community Engagement

25:24 Backward Mapping Student Skills

28:59 Tech-Driven Learning in Larkspur Schools

31:02 "The Art of Teaching"

37:19 Unexpected Life Lessons

38:15 "Be Like Bob" Slogan

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

If you care about the future of education, this episode will leave you inspired. Dr. Geithman’s thoughtful, measured approach to integrating AI in schools offers a refreshing counter-narrative to fear-based reactions. His belief in inquiry-based learning, student agency, and the art of teaching speaks to anyone who believes education is more than content delivery—it’s a craft that shapes lives.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, policymaker, or tech enthusiast, you’ll walk away with actionable insights on leadership, innovation, and what it truly takes to prepare students for a rapidly evolving world. Plus, you’ll hear a moving story about the teacher who inspired Brett’s journey into education—a poignant reminder of the power of mentorship and the enduring impact of great teaching.

Connect with Guest – Dr. Brett Geithman

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-geithman-509580355

Connect with Hosts – Alex Inman & Bob Cireddu

LinkedIn – Alex Inman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexinman/
LinkedIn – Bob Cireddu: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cireddu