In this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, Dr. Sarena Shivers joins Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman to explore building the teacher pipeline and leading with purpose in today’s shifting education landscape.

From navigating teacher shortages and looming budget cuts to advocating for leadership equity, Dr. Shivers shares insights from her work building support networks for leaders of color and tackling systemic barriers. It’s a timely conversation on resilience, representation, and what it takes to stay focused on students, no matter the pressure.

Tune in to hear what’s shaping the future of K-12 and what it means for the leaders driving change.

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In this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, hosts Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman talk with Dr. Adrian Bustillos, Chief Transformation Officer at Aldine ISD in Houston, TX about using strategic partnerships to drive systemic change. He shares how the district leads through influence, builds community empathy, pilots innovation thoughtfully—and tackles initiative fatigue along the way.

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In this episode of the K-12 Change Equation podcast, Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman sit down with Dr. Amy Cashwell, Superintendent of Henrico County Public Schools, to explore what it really takes to drive instructional change in today’s public school systems.

From rethinking professional learning to elevating the teaching profession, Dr. Cashwell shares stories and strategies from the front lines of leadership. The conversation touches on micro-credentialing, career ladders, student voice, and the real value of community engagement.

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In this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, Dr. Mike Lubelfeld, Superintendent of North Shore School District (IL) and author of The Unlearning Leader, joins us to explore what it takes to lead through disruption.

From unlearning outdated mindsets to leading after tragedy, Mike shares insights on school safety, innovation, and bold leadership.

He also dives into what superintendents can do today– without waiting for permission– to better serve students, staff, and communities.

🔗 Learn what millions of students are saying about their learning experience in our new 2025 State of the Student Experience Report.

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In this bonus episode, Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman dive into the biggest questions facing K-12 leaders—from funding uncertainty and tech debates to political tension and shifting public trust.

Through stories and reflection, they explore how superintendents can lead through complexity, stay grounded in values, and center student voice.

Whether you’re navigating district decisions or classroom realities, this candid conversation offers clarity, connection, and real talk for today’s education leaders.

🔗Learn what millions of students are saying about their learning experience in our new 2025 State of the Student Experience Report.

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How do kids really learn, grow, and thrive?

In this episode, Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman talk with Ellen Galinsky, author of The Breakthrough Years, about the science of executive function, student agency, and what kids are telling us they need.

Ellen shares actionable strategies for building reflection, agency, and emotional intelligence at every level of the K12 education system.

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In this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, hosts Dr.Leila Nuland and Dr.Mort Sherman dive into one of the most pressing debates in education today: the tension between federal, state, and local control in shaping school policy and practice. They explore how the potential decentralization of the U.S. Department of Education could impact districts, teachers, and students—and what school leaders need to consider as they navigate these changes.

Through personal stories and historical insights, Leila and Mort also discuss the ongoing evolution of ninth-grade academies, reflecting on past implementation challenges and the broader question: Why do we keep cycling through the same educational reforms without long-term success?

Join the conversation as they unpack the future of education, the role of AI in workforce preparation, and what school leaders and community members can do to influence the direction of public education.

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In this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, hosts Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman sit down with Dr. Khalid Mumin, former Pennsylvania Secretary of Education, to to dive into the intersection of policy, leadership, and student-centered innovation

Dr. Mumin shares his perspective on navigating the balance between federal mandates and local decision-making, the power of student voice, and the role of advocacy in driving meaningful change. Drawing from his experiences as a superintendent in both underserved and affluent districts, he highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with leading dynamic school systems.

This discussion delves into strategic leadership approaches, the importance of listening to students and educators, and how district leaders can create lasting impact—all while staying adaptable to shifting policies and community needs.

Join us as we bridge visionary leadership with practical solutions, offering actionable insights for superintendents, district leaders, and education changemakers.

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