Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology. Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears. Hosted by Laura Glaab, VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandpare ...
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Fostering Belonging and Inclusion at Alamo Heights with Dr. Dana Bashara
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48:12In this episode, host Jennie Tookoian engages in a rich conversation with Dr. Dana Bashara, the superintendent of the Alamo Heights Independent School District in Central San Antonio. Dr. Bashara embodies the belief that education is a heartfelt mission beyond just a career path, infusing her leadership with purpose and personal engagement. Alamo H…
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Redefining Education: Doctor Micah Studer's Vision for Charter Schools
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52:57
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52:57Welcome to another episode of "More Than a Test." In this episode, we're excited to have Dr. Micah Studer, executive director of Visions in Education Charter School, share insights into how the school is transforming the educational landscape in California. Visions, an online and homeschool program, serves a wide and diverse student body, focusing …
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Exploring Galveston ISD's Unique Initiatives with Superintendent Matthew Neighbors
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51:30In this episode of "More Than a Test," host Jennie Tookoian sits down with Dr. Matthew Neighbors, the superintendent of Galveston Independent School District (GISD). With nearly two decades of experience in the district, Dr. Neighbors shares his personal journey, discussing the unique qualities of the Galveston community and the exciting educationa…
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The Evolution and Impact of Career Tech Education at Springfield Clark CTC
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51:56In this episode of More Than a Test, host Jennie Tookoian welcomes Michelle Patrick, the superintendent of Springfield Clark Career Technology Center in Ohio, to discuss the transformative impact of Career and Technology Education (CTE) on students and communities. As February is Career Technical Education Month, Michelle shares the unique offering…
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Leading a Rural School District: Challenges and Opportunities with Devvon Dettra
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48:04
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48:04In this episode of More Than a Test, host Jennie Tookoian converses with Devvon Dettra, the dynamic superintendent of Rolling Hills Local School District in Ohio. Devvon, a Meadowbrook High School alumnus, offers a unique perspective in tackling the distinct challenges and opportunities within small rural school districts. The discussion highlights…
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Leading with Technology: Enhancing Education Through Innovation and Operations with Ryan Altemeyer
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37:12In More Than a Test podcast, host Jennie Tookoian sits down with Ryan Altemeyer, Associate Superintendent of the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, to explore the intersection of technology, operations, and education. With over 12 years of experience in the technology industry and extensive leadership in educational operations, Altemeyer s…
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Improving Education with Dr. Svetlana Cvetkovic: From Data to Literacy
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52:30Dr. Svetlana Cvetkovic is a passionate educator, researcher, and founder of Encoding Literacy. Dr. Cvetkovic shares her journey from a childhood love of Nancy Drew's books to becoming a literacy specialist committed to addressing the urgent issue of adult illiteracy in America. We'll delve into the importance of effectively using test results to im…
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Equity and Excellence in Education: Dr. Bonita Jamison’s Approach at MRH Schools
1:06:58
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1:06:58In this episode, we explore MRH’s comprehensive strategic plan, "Honoring our history and shaping our future." We’ll touch on critical issues such as staff retention, made more challenging by the pandemic, and the importance of genuine community engagement that goes beyond simple board meetings. Dr. Jamison will share her reflections on influential…
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Jerry Boyd on Mentorship, AI, and Addressing Social-Emotional Needs in Education
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47:05Education is not just about testing; it’s about preparing students for life, with strong relationships and personalized learning. Jerry Boyd, Superintendent of Washington County Schools in Tennessee, discusses his innovative approach to education with host Jennie Tookoian. He emphasizes the importance of fostering sustainable mentor-student relatio…
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Sue Lemon’s Leadership: Overcoming Post-Pandemic Challenges in Education
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52:12Education is more than just a test; it’s about nurturing the whole child and shaping the future. Sue Lemon, superintendent of Rosedale Union School District in Bakersfield, California. They discuss the challenges of supporting students' social-emotional needs, navigating political pressures, and addressing the ongoing effects of COVID-19. Sue share…
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Dr. Michael Cardona on Transforming San Marcos CISD: AI, Parents, and Leadership
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42:13Innovation in education is more than just a test; it's about shaping the future. Dr. Michael Cardona, Superintendent of San Marcos CISD, shares how the district is transforming education through innovative curriculum, AI integration, and strategic partnerships. He discusses the challenges of vouchers, funding, and competition with private schools, …
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How Eric Hudspith’s Empathetic Leadership is Driving Growth in Rural Schools
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50:23Education is not just about what students know, but about who they become Dr. Eric Hudspith, the superintendent of Waseca Public Schools in Minnesota, and author of two books: Culture Driven Leadership and Creating a Culture of Success, has a career that spans from classroom teacher to district leader, He brings a deep understanding of the challeng…
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Bringing Generations Together: The Secret Behind Blue Earth Area Schools' Success
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54:49
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54:49“Seeing children as whole individuals goes far beyond standardized tests.” Mandy Fletcher, Superintendent shares her journey with Blue Earth Area Public Schools. Since 2019, she has faced financial crises, including a failed levy and budget cuts, while implementing innovative changes. Mandy highlights the introduction of a health science academy co…
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Creating Lifelong Learning: Dr. David Lawrence’s Vision for Dayton’s Future
52:03
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52:03“Education is about more than just tests—it's about heart, perseverance, and community.” Dr. David Lawrence, superintendent of Dayton Public School, reflects on his extensive journey in education, from teaching and coaching to leading as a principal. He shares school leadership's emotional and physical demands and his dedication to teacher retentio…
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Dr. Alex Marrero’s Vision: Making Education Fair for Everyone, Not Just About Graduation
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51:12“Education is the foundation for equity, and every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.” Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, brings extensive experience in proactive leadership and community engagement. In this episode of "More Than A Test", he discusses the challenges and successes in transforming education in Colorad…
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Building a Better Tomorrow: Dana Addis on Emotional Growth & Learning Integration
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48:36“Education is not just about tests and grades; it's about building meaningful connections and nurturing growth” Dana Addis, superintendent of Hudson City Schools talks about the impact of the Service Learning Program, the challenges of the teacher hiring process, and innovative projects like "Helping Hands."He discusses the district's obstacles, th…
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Enhancing Education with Patience and Data-Driven Tech: Insights from Ryan Baker
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43:46“Ultimately, we don't want a society of people who are mediocre with all their flaws. We want people who are amazing at science.” Ryan Baker, an expert in AI and education, for a conversation that challenges perceptions and sparks personal growth. Ryan shares his method of spending 30 minutes daily learning something outside of his work, an approac…
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Dr. Shawn Bird’s Mission: Fighting for Equity in San Antonio’s Schools
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43:02“It's just more expensive to raise children, and so people move out to the suburbs” Dr. Shawn Bird, Deputy Superintendent of San Antonio Schools, discusses significant changes in the district, including the recent closure of 14 elementary schools and the efforts to serve over 45,000 students across more than 100 schools. Dr. Bird addresses the comm…
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Jeremy Roschelle Reveals: How to Balance AI Innovation and Classroom Caution
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50:55“Educating teachers, parents, and students about AI is paramount for the future of education.” Jeremy Roschelle is a renowned expert in AI and education with extensive experience in promoting AI literacy. Jeremy has conducted groundbreaking research on AI applications in educational settings and is known for his insights into the integration of AI …
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Revolutionizing Schools: Erin Mote’s Vision for Collaborative EdTech
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53:12“Interoperability in education is as crucial as hot water pipes in a building's infrastructure—the system needs to function seamlessly.“ In today’s episode, Erin Mote, co-founder of Brooklyn Lab and a leader at InnovateEDU, dives into the transformative power of connecting organizations with school districts. She sheds light on the pivotal role of …
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Future of Education: AI, Innovation, and Community with Jerry Almendarez
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45:57In this episode, Jerry Almendarez, the dynamic Superintendent of the Santa Ana School District, shares his visionary insights on transforming education through innovation and community engagement. Jerry recounts how social media platforms like TikTok introduced him to emerging technologies such as OpenAI and ChatGPT, emphasizing the urgent need for…
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Balancing AI and Human Touch in Education with Thomas C Murray
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57:57In this episode, Laura Glaab and Thomas C. Murray dive deep into the intersection of AI and education. Listen in as Thomas shares his personal story of using a chat GPT to analyze his MRI results and discusses the implications of relying on AI for medical and educational purposes. They touch on the balance needed between technology and human connec…
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The Journey of Addison Davis From Hillsborough Success to National Impact in Education
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48:08Today, we have the pleasure of hosting an episode of "More Than a Test with Addison Davis," we dive deep into the world of education leadership with our esteemed guest, Addison Davis. Known for his remarkable journey as a superintendent in Hillsborough County, Addison's story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to improving …
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Transforming Public Schools: Don Haddad and Jackie Kapushion Discuss Their Vision
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56:00In today's episode, we are honored to have, Don Haddad and Jackie Kapushion, leaders in the St. Vrain Valley School District. We'll explore how high schools can prepare students for diverse post-graduation pathways, from college to vocational fields and the military. Our guests will also address the importance of learning durable skills beyond stan…
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Dr. Josha Talison: Educational Leadership Rooted in Faith and Community
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52:30In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Dr. Josha Talison, the superintendent of Ecorse, Michigan, join us. Dr. Talison shares how his unwavering faith has guided his career, emphasizing that true leadership is about earning respect and loyalty. We'll explore the unique challenges of working in an inner-city school district with limited resourc…
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