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

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/