District Leader's Podcast

In this episode of the District Leaders Podcast, Dr. Jose Torres, Area Superintendent of Area 14 in Chicago Public Schools, talks about his challenges and triumphs during his time there with podcast host Carolyn Pearson. He discusses the educational leaders and his fellow superintendents who inspire him and the many initiatives of which he is the most proud. Dr. Torres also talks about some of his plans for his new endeavor as superintendent in Elgin School District U46 in Illinois. District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337

A prime example of the impact and process of leveraging services to support special needs in public schools is revealed in this episode. Join District Leader's Podcast host Ed Milliken and Dr. Jerry W. Shiveley, Executive Director/CEO of the Intermediate Unit of Montgomery County, Norristown PA, as they discuss how schools can offer an increased variety of instructional, support, and management programs and services through the collaboration among school districts created by the intermediate agency. The discussion ranges from leadership, to teacher education, equity, student special needs, cost-effective services, parent involvement, and beyond! District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337

Join us for a compelling interview with a prominent school board member who has served education through many organizations. Mr. William H. Isler offers a broad and deep view on several critical issues from his history of deep involvement involved in early childhood education and public service, from his role as school board president in Pittsburgh PA in this conversation and interview with District Leader's Podcast co-host Arthur Griffen Jr.. Mr.Isler's education service experiences spans service on this urban school board and Saint Vincent College's Board of trustees, but also leadership of Family Communications, Inc., and The Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media at Saint Vincent College (to name just a few of the outstanding areas of service). Topics in this episode include leadership development and vision, student achievement, closing the achievement gap, equity, urban education, child development, breaking trends in education, and funding of educational programs. District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337

Join us for an exciting interview with Mr. Kirk Lewis and Jason Marshall as they discuss the person and impact of the Superintendency. This series always provides more opportunities to hear from your colleagues around the USA, and gain strength and insight from their experiences. In this episode, Mr. Kirk Lewis, the Superintendent for Pasadena Independent School District is interviewed by Jason Marshall. Mr. Lewis also discusses Pasadena's Bilingual/ELL program. Pasadena currently has over 11,000 students in Bilingual programs, and the numbers are growing. Interesting features of the interview also include hearing about the non-traditional road to the Superintendent position which Mr. Lewis has traveled.In addition, listeners gain firsthand insight into the Pasadena Initiative called Expectation Graduation, which focuses resources and attention on the 9th grade. This program certainly addresses one of the most critical years for a high school student is entry into the ninth grade. The success of that year sets the tone for the entire high school experience and focuses on connecting instruction with students' interests, learning styles, and aptitudes. These small learning community approaches continue further through a college bound culture which implements greater rigor and relevance, and increases AP enrollment. District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337.

In this episode of the District Leader's Podcast, Dr. Deasy, Chief Executive Officer of Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) in Maryland, talks with with host Carolyn Pearson about his challenges and triumphs in his first two years in the district. Maryland's second largest school system and the Nation's 18th largest district offers more than 133,000 children and innovative, technology-infused curriculum that has produced significant academic gains. Additionally, PGCPS provides a wide range of "FOCUS" programs, extended learning opportunities, and support for special needs students. Dr. Deasy also discusses the educational leaders and his fellow superintendents who inspire him and why. This testimony is a great example of the power of support and collaboration in school leadership! Turning the tide when a district has been marginalized over a long period of time is a great challenge. Dr. John Deasy is a school leader who is succeeding in changing that tide. Tune in to this episode to get to know a school leader who discusses his district and student struggle, and new pathway of success. Another not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337.

Dr. David Snead, Superintendent of the Waterbury (CT) Public Schools, joins host Ed Milliken for an interview which discusses vital topics effecting schools, superintendents, students and society today. They particularly focus this session on the topics of pupil achievement from the perspectives of poverty and mobility. In just one example of the depth and relevance of this interview, Dr. Snead emphasizes and explains how standards level performance is difficult to achieve when students live in an environment of poverty and children and families are very mobile. This school leader calls for curricular consistency as a powerful way enable students to progress in a learning sequence. He also points out that many of these same strategies are available to assist struggling students as they are available to educators and school districts, however additional resources are needed. Join the District Leader's Podcast for this 20 minute segment of refreshment and encouragement. Reaching out to superintendents, school leaders and school board members around the world, this series provides support, refreshment, resources, insight and encouragement.Another not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337 Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

Join co-host Ed Milliken as he talks with Dr. Jack Bierwirth about his vast experience in difference school leadership settings. Insights from this interview will help superintendents and school leaders from school districts of all sizes, from suburban to urban. Note just a few of these points included in this episode: Examples of how leadership style can be affected by different organizational structures among school districts, Similarities among large and small school district leadership, Benefits of using technology to help manage, lead and make decisions, The role of listening and receiving advice, and The best use of talent for our schools! Join us for another inspiring and informative episode to help school leaders develop their leadership qualities and skills further. Another not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337 Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

A compelling interview with Dr. Alan Groveman, Superintendent of Schools for Long Island's Connetquot School District, is interviewed about critical school topics by host Edward Milliken for District Leader's Podcast Episode 13. Dr. Alan Groveman discusses vital issues that are effecting the superintendents and our schools ranging from school violence and security, to parental involvement, professional development and strategies for improving student learning. A striking characteristic of this episode is how superintendents and school leaders need to effectively balance and meet the demands for all children to achieve learning standards (No Child Left Behind) and the demand that communities have for their schools to be safe havens for their children to attend. Another not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. Visit the website for full show notes and resources www.districtleaderspodcast.org and blog.districtleaderspodcast.org You may email the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org You may also leave us a message on our toll-free comment line is 1 (866) 435-5337 Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

A compelling interview with Dr. Henry Johnson, former Assistant Secretary of Education for the US Department of Education, joins our podcast host Arthur Griffin to discuss issues and potential for student achievement, equity and learning for children today. Dr. Johnson has many years of experience not only as a policy maker and educational leader, but also as a classroom teacher, school leader, superintendent, and state superintendent. We know you will enjoy this lively exchange about the possibilities to leading our school communities to greater opportunities for excellence!Another not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. For more information or to send the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Jason Marshall, our podcast host, interviews Dr. Guy Sconzo, Superintendent of Schools at Humble Independent School District and delves into matters of budget, student performance, ELL, and leadership. This interview brings to life successful strategies and perspectives in facing the challenges of superintendents and school leaders. In the process, Dr. Sconzo reveals his leadership style, approaches used in successful bond campaigns, and how tough budget decisions get made based on many years of experience with Humble Independent School District, Houston, Texas . The growing population of English Language Learners in the Houston area and how schools are addressing those needs are also explored in this interview! We are pleased to be able to provide this interview with the state of Texas's nominee for National Superintendent of the Year (2007), Dr. Guy Sconzo. This is a not-to-be-missed episode of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing and leading amidst some of the most critical issues facing school leaders. For more information or to send the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

This exciting episode of the District Leader's Podcast features an interview with Superintendent Fadhilika Atiba-Weza and podcast host Ed Milliken. They discuss the great challenges facing superintendents and real strategies for success in serving populations of students with performance disparities. Listen in as this school leader shares insight on balancing the needs for assessment, accountability and evaluation. This exciting discussion also delves into the role of the superintendent in reaching out to the community and parents. Don't miss Episode 10 of The District Leader's Podcast and the chance to join your colleagues as they consider these examples of managing, leading and coping with some of the most critical topics of school leadership. For more information or to send the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

Superintendent of Beaumont Texas Independent School District Dr. Carrol Thomas: Vision in Leadership: Urban Education, Improving Student Performance Key Topics include: Leadership  Improving Student Performance  Urban Education  Teacher Training  ARCHIVE  Dr. Carrol Thomas, Superintendent of schools for 19 years and president-elect for the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) is interviewed by Sheryl Neal about his successful work in closing the gap of student performance. This informative interview provides firsthand insight into the strategies used in the Beaumont Texas Independent School District to make them among the TOP 50 schools in student improvement. From adopting inclusion methods, to data gathering, multiple teaching strategies to teacher instructional feedback and direction, Dr. Thomas fills this podcast interview full of concrete examples of approaches district leaders may explore for consideration to close the student achievement gap. No doubt this is part of the reason he has been successful in his quest and is now best known in Texas for turning around one the lowest performing school districts in Texas in one year. Superintendent Thomas does not shy away from the hard questions of race, special education tracking, nor parent and civic responsibility; however we also hear his vital vision for education of every child to be understood as a civil right. Tune in to this interview for a very different look at leadership in our schools on the District Leader's Podcast. Leading today for success tomorrow. Biographical Background Dr. Carrol Thomas has served as the Superintendent of Schools for the Beaumont Independent School District since July 11, 1996. Dr. Thomas came to Beaumont from North Forest Independent School District in Houston, Texas, where his work earned him the Texas Superintendent of the Year in 1999. Under Thomasâ leadership, North Forest I.S.D. was the ïrst and only school district to move from âAccredited Warnedâ, the lowest level the State places on a district, to âFully Accreditedâ in one year. When Dr. Thomas came to BISD, the district was one of the lowest performing districts in the state. BISD is now ranked among the top school districts in Texas for improving student performance. The district has gone from only one campus receiving state recognition in 1996, to over one-third of the 32 sites receiving either recognized or exemplary status in recent years. The district also had 12 campuses to receive the prestigious Successful School Award granted by the Texas Education Agency. Dr. Thomas is the President-Elect for the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE). Thomas will serve as NABSE leader for the two-year term that starts this fall, followed by a two-term presidency from 2009-2011. Related Web Links: ISD Beaumont, TexasNational Alliance of Black School Educators District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Key Topics include: Leadership  Improving Student Performance  Urban Education  Teacher Training  ARCHIVE Â

Dr. Carrol Thomas, a superintendent of schools for 19 years and president-elect for the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) is interviewed by Sheryl Neal about his successful work in closing the gap of student performance. This informative interview provides firsthand insight into the strategies used in the Beaumont ISD schools to make them among the TOP 50 schools in student improvement. From adopting inclusion methods, to data gathering, multiple teaching strategies to teacher instructional feedback and direction, this podcast is full of concrete examples of approaches district leaders may explore for consideration to close the student achievement gap. Dr. Thomas does not shy away from the hard questions of race, special education tracking, nor parent and civic responsibility; however we also hear his vital vision for education of every child to be understood as a civil right. Tune in to this interview for a very different look at leadership in our schools on the District Leader's Podcast. For more information or to send the podcast hosts with comments and suggestions email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

February 10th, 2008 Superintendent of Jackson Mississippi Public Schools Dr. Earl Watkins: Urban Education, Leadership, Student Success: Schools as Transformation Opportunities Key Topics include: Improving Student Performance  Urban Education  Leadership ÂTeacher Training Dr. Earl Watkins, Superintendent of Jackson Public Schools, Mississippi provides an inspirational interview with host Arthur Griffin. Dr. Watkins addresses issues of the difficult challenges of urban education and shares his vision of schools as an opportunity for student transformation. This podcast illustrates the dynamic relationship and impact which authentic leadership can have on student performance and their schools. Bringing all efforts to bear on this purpose can have dramatic results. Donât miss this vibrant exchange which provides strategies from his experience for leadership, improved student performance, teacher training and school change. Join us for this episode of Vision and Action from the District Leaderâs Podcast. Leading today for success tomorrow. Biographical Background Dr. Earl Watkins, Superintendent of Jackson Public Schools, is a native Mississippian. He was raised in the heart of the Delta and attended the public schools in Belzoni. He has degrees from Mississippi Valley State University and Jackson State University. He brings a wealth of experience to this post. He has served JPS as a teacher, a math curriculum coordinator, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal and as executive principal for the Jim Hill feeder pattern. He has also been an adjunct professor at Jackson State University in the Department of Educational Foundations and Leadership since August 2000. Dr. Watkins was named superintendent of Jackson Public Schools on June 20, 2002, and became the districtâs youngest superintendent in recent history. In addition to being a dedicated employee of JPS, Dr. Watkins also is active in the community. Besides serving on several boards for educational entities, he has also been vitally involved in his home church, World Overcomers Ministries Church, where he serves as a lay minister and a board member. He and his wife, Cassaundra, have founded an organization called, Up From the Ashes, a faith-based organization (ministry) that was developed to provide services to people who need help in areas such as education, Biblical teaching, and personal development. Related Web Links: Jackson Public Schools Jackson State University District Leaderâs Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. â No CommentsTags: Teacher Training  Leadership  Improving Student Performance  Urban Education  Uncategorized

Dr. Earl Watkins, Superintendent of Jackson Public Schools, Mississippi provides an inspirational interview with host Arthur Griffin. Dr. Watkins addresses issues of the difficult challenges of urban education and shares his vision of schools as an opportunity for student transformation. This podcast illustrates the dynamic relationship and impact which authentic leadership can have on student performance and their schools. Bringing all efforts to bear on this purpose can have dramatic results. Don't miss this vibrant exchange which provides strategies from his experience for leadership, improved student performance, teacher training and school change.Join us for this episode of Vision and Action from The District Leader's Podcast. Out theme is Leading Today for Success Tomorrow. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

Henry (Hank) Grishman, Jericho School District Superintendent of Schools, is interviewed by our co-host Ed Milliken on leadership and how to improve student performance. This vital interview emphasizes the achievement focus driving today's schools, while Hank Grishman recognizes the learning disparities and raises concerns about the performance gap. Listen in to this episode of the District Leader's Podcast to gain support and additional strategies in leading your district and schools. What are the stress on schools and teachers? How can testing, school calendars, teacher professional development, curricula and programs be changed to bear results in this volatile matter? At a time of school leadership shortages, interesting information revealed in this interview shows that when asked, some of the elementary pupils in the Jericho School District offer their perception on the role of the School Superintendent. Join us for another episode filled with insights for leadership success! District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org and www.districtleaderspodcast.org

Dr. Rosemary Jones, Superintendent of Sayville, New York joins District Leaders Podcast co-host, Ed Milliken for an interview focusing on student achievement. Dr. Jones shares her recommendations and experiences that teachers and district leaders need to fully understand learning, how the role of classroom teachers have changed and the continuing learning gap among populations of students. This interview shares insights that current accountability programs may increase learning. Examples of programs and success cited in this disucssion include the impact of preschool on early grade school adjustment and success and high school pre-engineering experiences. District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by The McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org and www.districtleaderspodcast.org

Dr. William (Bill) Adams, Superintendent of Salem Vocational Technical School in New Jersey sits down with District Leaders Podcast host, Daniel Domenech for an interview. The SCVTS serve over 8,500 county residents annually through a variety of educational programs and services. SCVTS offers a wide range of academy, career and technical education, career orientation and special education programs. Dr. Adams candidly shares his thirty-seven years of superintendent experience with his board members, working with administrators and on how to build a strong team that students can benefit from. Discussing the issues for New Jersey on whether or not there should be one diploma for high school students and the future importance of vocational educational training. Listen in as Dr. Adams and our podcast host Don Domenech bring more support, insight and stirring discussion always, Leading Today for Success Tomorrow. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007-2008. All rights reserved.

Podcast cohost Ed Milliken engages Dr. William Johnson in an informative and moving interview about critical issues that continue to face schools across the world. With 22 years as a school superintendent and a successful student and school improvement record Dr. Johnson provides compelling insight into the potential for all students to succeed. In this episode of the District Leader's Podcast listeners also hear strategies for success working with large districts, diverse student populations, poverty, seeming student learning gaps, and effective teacher professional development to meet these needs at the Rockville Centre School District. This interview does not shy away from the difficult questions. Listen in as Dr. Johnson and our podcast host Ed Milliken bring more support, insight and stirring discussion always, Leading Today for Success Tomorrow. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007. All rights reserved.

Interview with Tony Amato Kansas City Superintendent. School Challenges; Student Achievement, NCLB: New Orleans, Kansas City and Beyond. Co-host Dan Domenench interviews Tony Amato school superintendent of Kansas City schools and former superintendent of New Orleans. They discuss post Katrina school conditions, NCLB, school leadership needs and technology in education. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007. All rights reserved.

Join us for this gripping interview as Dr. Lillian Lowery discusses difficult challenges met as new superintendent of Christina School District in Wilmington, Delaware. In this interview with our host Arthur Griffin, Dr. Lowery shares some of the ramifications of the Supreme Court on racially identifiable schools, using race as a determinant for student assignment and community engagement. Dr. Lowery expresses her thoughts on configuring Christina Schools making the district accountable and teaching civic responsibility. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007. All rights reserved.

How does a superintendent meet the vital needs and challenges with school and students, but also effective community relationships? Listen in to Dr. James Mapes' interview on the District Leader's Podcast to find out! Dr. Ed Milliken, our host, discusses these questions and more with the superintendent as he shares the challenges and provides recommendations regarding the role of the Superintendent. With a career, that has spanned over two decades in education, Dr. James Mapes Long Island's Nassau BOCES District Superintendent is uniquely prepared to offer valuable insight and suggestions to school leaders. This compelling interview also includes Dr. Mapes sharing his experience with Career Education Programs, dealing with No Child Left Behind and focusing on closing the learning gap. For more information email us at podcast@districtleaderspodcast.org or phone us at 1-866-435-5337 (toll free) and leave a voice message for our co-hosts. Visit the website for full shownotes and resources blog.districtleaderspodcast.org District Leader's Podcast is produced and copyrighted by McGraw-Hill Companies, 2007. All rights reserved.