Talking Out of School

Assessing your MTSS Implementation for Effectiveness and Equity

In this episode, experts discuss the effectiveness of Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in schools, covering equity promotion, learning gaps, and the importance of various instructional strategies. Dr. Robert Arzawicki of Renaissance Learning highlights the role of foundational literacy in educational success, while Farah Asaraj from the Council of the Great City Schools stresses the need for systemic, equitable MTSS practices to aid all students, especially multilingual learners and those with disabilities. 
The conversation underscores the broadening scope of MTSS to encompass behavioral and emotional support and the push for culturally responsive assessments. With a growing trend towards MTSS adoption for equitable student outcomes, listeners are directed to resources from state guidelines, Renaissance Learning, and the Council of the Great City Schools for further exploration, positioning the podcast as a vital tool for enhancing MTSS strategies and fostering educational change.

Episode 8: Baruti Kafele - "Principal Kafele"

Leadership and equity expert Baruti Kafele, better known as Principal Kafele, is a powerful speaker with an inspirational approach to PD that drives educators toward their full potential.  

Episode 7: Robin Lake

Transforming K12 into a more fully student-centered system is the wicked problem facing public schools, says Robin Lake, director of the Center on Reinventing Public Education.

Episode 6: Sean Bulson

The superintendency is more complex than ever, and turnover rates reflect that. In this episode, we're joined by Harford County Public Schools Superintendent Sean Bulson, an 11-year superintendent who speaks about the importance of resiliency and how he's managed to stay true to the spark that made him fall in love with the profession in the first place.

Episode 5: 100 Superintendent March Panel

A group of superintendents makes their voices heard at the White House and in Congress during the “100 Superintendents March on the Hill.”

Episode 4: Marguerite Roza

Marguerite Roza,  a professor and director of the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy, aims to help district leaders make smart decisions about the best way to use financial resources on behalf of students.  

Chaos to Calm: Improving School Culture Through an Adults-First Approach

In this impactful episode of the District Administration Podcast, Jill Moley, Director of Development for Conscious Discipline, and Jessica Meisenheimer, Director of Special Programs at Liberty Public Schools in Missouri, explore the transformative power of prioritizing adult wellness and mental health in schools. Amid rising stress levels among educators, our guests delve into why an adult-first approach is essential for fostering a nurturing school environment where students thrive. 
Discover how Liberty Public Schools implemented Conscious Discipline, an evidence-based, trauma-informed program focusing on self-regulation and classroom management, to dramatically reduce disciplinary issues, enhance academic achievement, and boost staff retention and satisfaction. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or simply interested in educational transformation, this conversation offers insights and inspiration for making a lasting impact on school culture. Tune in to learn how shifting the focus to adults can lead to a school atmosphere of understanding, empathy, and connectedness, paving the way for the next generations to succeed.

Episode 3: Denise Watts

District Administration's Micah Ward and Matt Zalaznick sit down with Denise Watts, superintendent at Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, to discuss what it's like being a new superintendent in 2024. At a time when superintendent turnover is at an all-time high, she describes why it's an exciting time for new leaders like herself who are standing on the heels of giants.

Episode 2: Dr. Joe Gothard

Dr. Joe Gothard is the superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He is the recipient of the 2024 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year and is among three finalists nominated for AASA 2024 National Superintendent of the Year.
Dr. Gothard joins staff writers Alcino Donadel and Micah Ward on the second episode of "Talking Out of School."

Episode 1: Randi Weingarten

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten talks to K12 administrators about how they can support teachers and unify their communities around public education.