The Journey from Classroom to Strategy: Karle shares how her decade of experience teaching middle school science and serving as an instructional coach shaped her minimalist, intentional approach to educational technology. She emphasizes that tech shouldn't be used just because it is digital, but rather to enhance existing best practices.

Navigating the Tool Landscape: Rather than trying to master hundreds of niche educational apps, Karle advises leaders to focus on core frontier models (like Gemini or ChatGPT) . She explains the concept of "ChatGPT wrappers" (ordering off a menu) versus large language models (cooking for yourself) and introduces the fast-evolving world of autonomous AI agents .

Responsible District Implementation: A successful roll-out rejects the "one-and-done" professional development model. Instead, districts should establish high-level guiding principles, transparent data privacy expectations, and empower instructional leaders to design shareable AI workflows ("Gems") that support active district initiatives.

Data Privacy & Ethics: Clear boundaries must be set regarding what information can be put into specific systems. School-managed accounts (like Gemini for Education) offer FERPA/COPPA compliance matching standard Google Workspace privacy, whereas consumer-paid tiers (like Claude or personal ChatGPT) must never handle sensitive student data.

AI for Organizational Effectiveness: Leaders can use AI as a powerful executive coach. Karle notes how she uses AI note-takers to critique her public speaking pacing and fillers, uses voice mode for outdoor brainstorming sessions, and leverages LLMs to parse the red tape of complex state and federal grants.

Resources & Events Mentioned

Student Guide: Available at michiganvirtual.org/ai/students.

Career Exploration Tool: WillRobotsTakeMyJob.com.

Upcoming Event: AI in the Lakeshore featuring keynote speaker Karle Delo on August 5 (Registration via muskegonisd.org) .

Key Discussion Points

The Philosophy of "Neighborliness": Why schools must reimagine themselves as community hubs and "one-stop shops" to support families.

Leading with Love: Paul’s core leadership values include honesty, trust, and "unconditional positive regard," a concept inspired by Carl Rogers.

Mentorship in Motion: Hearing from former colleagues and leaders like Josh Smith and Willie Burrell on the lasting impact of Paul’s "horizontal leadership".

Success in Alternative Ed: Shifting the focus from traditional metrics to helping students articulate their purpose and engage in hands-on career exploration.

The Future of Education: Why Paul finds hope in the curiosity of students and the importance of "re-dreaming" the public education model.

Resources & Mentions

Muskegon Public Schools: Paul’s home district where he has served for 30 years.

Muskegon Community Education Center (MCEC): The site of Paul's current work in alternative education.

Community Partners: Mentions of West Michigan Works!, Jobs for Michigan's Graduates (JMG), Hackley Community Care, and Kids’ Food Basket.

The Power of Belonging: Why "belongingness" is the guiding light for every decision at Orchard View.

Capacity Management: The "plate" analogy—why leaders must take inventory of what they are asking of their staff before adding more.

Restorative Leadership: How modeling restorative circles for staff leads to better conflict resolution with students.

The Three Buckets of Influence: Analyzing whether your team views you as a support, an obstacle, or nothing.

Slow Down to Speed Up: Why new leaders must cultivate the "soil" of trust before planting seeds of innovation.

LINKS:
Orchard View Middle School – Muskegon, MI.

James Clear – Atomic Habits.

Ryan Holiday – The Obstacle Is the Way, Ego Is the Enemy, and Stillness Is the Key.

Visibility is Non-Negotiable: Impactful leadership happens in the hallways, at lunch tables, and during "Crew Time," not behind a closed office door.

The "Coffee Guy" Philosophy: Small, consistent acts of service—like brewing the morning coffee—build massive amounts of relational capital with staff.

Vulnerability Creates Connection: Being "real" and sharing your personal background allows students and staff to trust the person behind the title.

Clear is Kind: Drawing from Brené Brown’s philosophy, Burrel discusses how clear communication is the most effective way to handle accountability.

Creating "Sailor Experiences": Intentionality in providing clubs for non-athletes ensures every student has a "village" where they belong.

Episode Highlights

[04:12] The Pivot: How an English professor saw Willie’s potential as a teacher before he did.

[09:45] Defining Culture: What it looks like to make a building feel like a "family" from the moment someone walks in.

[15:20] The Muskegon Connection: Using community roots and shared history to reach "hard to reach" students.

[22:30] Middle School Magic: Why Willie chose to stay with an age group many others avoid.

[31:15] Rapid Fire: A look into Willie’s 4:00 AM routine, his stance on the LeBron vs. Jordan debate, and his secret skill for folding fitted sheets.

Notable Quotes

"We don’t only say it, but we exemplify it in all that we do. From the moment you walk into our building, I think you feel special."

"Being clear is kind... the more clear our communication can be and the more we can build that trust, the better we can support our kids."

Resources Mentioned

Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

MEMSPA (Michigan Elementary and Middle School Principals Association)

Fresh Coast Counseling

The "Felt" Culture: Culture isn't just a mission statement on a wall. It’s the audible sound of students encouraging one another and the tangible "vibe" you feel the moment you walk through the doors.

The Power of "Best for Kids": Learn how to use a single, simple question to filter every decision, from budget allocations to new recess rules.

Systems with a Soul: Janelle discusses how to balance the technical rigor of MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) and SWIS data with the human need for belonging and relationship-first coaching.

Leading Through the Unthinkable: A raw look at how to guide a staff and student body through the loss of a student by being present, listening, and allowing space for collective healing.

Student Voice & Agency: Why giving kids the power to "invent" recess games (like "Go Ball" or "Toilet Tag") builds more than just fun—it builds ownership and leadership.

Notable Quotes

"Culture isn't just something that you talk about. You can come in and you see it and you feel it."

"Leadership doesn't have all the answers. It’s definitely about showing up, being present, and having a space for staff, families, and kids to process."

"If we do what we say we're supposed to do, it works."

Resources & Frameworks Mentioned

MTSS & PBIS: The academic and behavioral frameworks that anchor Shetler Elementary.

5D+ Rubric: The coaching and feedback framework Janelle uses for instructional leadership.

SWIS Data: Used for tracking behavioral trends to inform Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions.

Kagan Structures: Engagement strategies used in classrooms to ensure every student is participating.

Principal at Reeths-Puffer Elementary School

Paul Klimza brings over three decades of experience to the table, specializing in school culture, special education, and alternative learning. His leadership philosophy is rooted in his own experience as a student who felt "unseen," driving him to create an environment where every student is given an opportunity to shine.

Key Discussion Points

The "Underdog" Mentality: Paul discusses his early career in special education and alternative centers, explaining how those experiences shaped his "no child unseen" philosophy.

The Timeline of Culture: Why it takes 7–9 years to truly turn a building around and the importance of leadership longevity.

Trauma-Invested vs. Trauma-Informed: A deep dive into meeting families where they are, providing practical resources (like school pantries and laundry facilities), and removing barriers to engagement.

Radical Visibility: The impact of the "bus loop" greeting and why the principal should be the first face students see every morning.

High-Impact Leadership (HIL): How "jumping in with both feet" to new systems and maintaining fidelity to literacy coaching and instructional rounds transformed their building data.

Leading Through Crisis: Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the "wake-up call" of realizing which students were at risk of falling through the cracks.

Memorable Quotes

"We might have someone walking the halls that’s going to cure cancer... all they need is opportunity. They need somebody to care for them, somebody to believe in them, and somebody to give them a chance."

"Culture is hard to define, but it’s something you can feel... everything starts with the relationships."

Key Topics Discussed

The Engagement Gap: Why Michelle felt disconnected from 40% of her students in the traditional classroom and how CTE became the solution.

Building Ignite Pathways: The creation of a system designed to upskill students for four-year universities, trade schools, or the direct workforce.

The "Village" Approach: How collective efforts between education, labor, and community make transformation possible in rural Iowa.

Leadership Through Iteration: Why "fail forward" is the unofficial middle name of her organization and how to lead by example.

The Tommy Gate Success Story: A specific look at how a partnership with a local manufacturing company created a direct welding apprenticeship pipeline.

Resources & Links Mentioned

Organization: Ignite Pathways — Empowering students through career-linked learning in Woodbine, Iowa.

Industry Partner: Tommy Gate — The local manufacturing company partnering with Ignite for student apprenticeships.

Conference: MAISA / Michigan Fall Leadership Conference (FLC) — The event where this episode was recorded.

Inspiration: The Nebraska Huskers Tunnel Walk — Michelle’s pick for her motivational "walk-in" song.

Memorable Quotes

"We stand tall because of those who came before us and because of those who we serve." — Randy Lindquist

 

 

"I think being okay with failing to fail forward... iterate over and over. If you keep that end goal in mind... transformation happens." — Michelle Barry

Key Takeaways

Authenticity Over Persona: Don't "code switch" into a hard-nosed administrator; lead as the person you were before you got the title.

A Culture of Experimentation: Create a space where staff aren't afraid to fail, viewing unsuccessful pilots as valuable learning experiences.

The Shift to Wisdom: Since knowledge is now a commodity, schools must pivot toward developing critical thinkers who can apply information.

Hire & Empower: Find people who share your core values (kids first) and give them the autonomy to stretch the organization.

Reflection as Foundation: Great leadership always starts with reflecting on the "why," the fairness of decisions, and the support provided to others.

The Unconventional Path to Leadership: John discusses his unique "top-down" career trajectory, moving from high school social studies teacher to the Michigan Department of Education before returning to local and regional leadership.

Building the Plane While Flying It: A look into John's entrepreneurial leadership style, where he advocates for launching innovative projects—even if they aren't perfect—to meet the urgent needs of students.

The Power of Peer Networks: Insights into the Future of Learning Council, a grassroots network of over 70 districts working to implement personalized, competency-based learning across Michigan.

Trust but Verify: Borrowing wisdom from Bo Schembechler, John explains how he manages a staff of hundreds by trusting his "heroic" team while maintaining clear check-ins and accountability.

The Relationship Metric: Why social-emotional connections and mentorship are the most enduring rewards of a career in education, far outweighing test scores.

Big Ideas & Further Reading

1. The Dance Floor and the Balcony

John highlights the necessity for leaders to "get off the dance floor and get on the balcony" to maintain a strategic view of their organization. This analogy, popularized by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky, distinguishes between technical management and adaptive leadership.

Deep Dive: The Balcony and the Dance Floor (Ed Batista) – A detailed exploration of how to move between active participation and objective observation.

2. Competency-Based Education (CBE)

John discusses breaking away from the "one-hour model" in favor of evidence-based grading and personalized pathways.

Learn More: Future of Learning Council – The organization John co-founded to scale student-centered innovation in Michigan.

3. "Big Hairy Audacious Goals" (BHAG)

John mentions his drive for "big, hairy, audacious goals" to push the boundaries of what is possible in school districts.

Concept Origin: Jim Collins - BHAG – A classic leadership principle about setting clear, compelling, and long-term goals.

Connect with the Leaders

Dr. John VanWagoner: LinkedIn Profile – Superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS).

Randy Lindquist: LinkedIn Profile – Superintendent of the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District (MAISD).

Framework Over Compliance: PBIS should be a tool to address strategic challenges like chronic absenteeism and test scores, not just a set of rules to follow.

The Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF): A strategy for schools and community partners to move beyond just sharing information to authentic, shared decision-making.

Moving Beyond "Person-Dependency": Why systems must be team-based to survive leadership turnover and staff burnout.

Vulnerability as a Leadership Tool: Building trust with families and agencies requires being honest about school challenges rather than trying to fix everything "in-house" first.

Disaggregating for Equity: Using data by race, gender, and IEP status to uncover implicit biases and targeted needs.

Leveraging Community Data: How tracking external markers—like the geographic origin of student hotline calls—can lead to better-targeted school interventions.

The Culture of Wellness: Creating an environment where adults feel they belong is the first step to ensuring students feel the same.

Links & Resources Mentioned

Center on PBIS: National resources, research, and technical assistance.

Midwest PBIS Network: Training and support for MTSS and ISF implementation.

Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF) Overview: Resources for integrating mental health into school systems.

Connect with the Guests & Host

Kelly Perales on LinkedIn: Connect with Kelly

Randy Lindquist on LinkedIn: Connect with Randy

In this special end-of-year mashup, we dive into the lessons that define high-impact leadership. From the precision of a Ferrari pit crew to the "monastic" focus of Victor Hugo, we explore how educational leaders can break out of their silos to create more efficient, connected, and focused school cultures.

Key Takeaways for Leaders

• Cross-Pollination: How a London hospital reduced errors by 49% by consulting with Formula One mechanics.
• The Transition to Leadership: Moving from being responsible for the job to being responsible for the people who do the job.
• Environment vs. Willpower: Why your school's social and physical environment is more powerful than ANY New Year's resolution.
• The Myth of the Hero: Rejection of the "Sage on the Stage" model in favor of distributed leadership and learner empowerment.

Resources Mentioned

• Simon Sinek: Leadership and "Taking care of those in our charge."
• Vanessa Van Edwards: The importance of human connection over rigid routines.
• James Clear: Building systems that make desired behaviors the "path of least resistance."
• Jonathan Haidt: The Anxious Generation and the power of putting the phone away.
• Rick DuFour: Leaders of Learning and the obligation to lead regardless of title.

Connect with the Host

Follow and connect with Randy Lindquist on LinkedIn to continue the conversation on leadership.

Growth Without "Collateral Damage" Ambition is critical, but it cannot come at the expense of your people. Smies explains why growth must be managed carefully to avoid leaving a "wake" of burnt-out staff behind.

The "Three-Legged Stool" of Sustainability For any district or organization to thrive, growth must happen simultaneously in three areas: volunteers (staff/talent), participants (students), and resources (funding). If one leg outpaces the others, the structure becomes unstable.

Stories Over Spreadsheets While metrics matter, they rarely move minds. Smies shares why individual success stories—like that of the Garcia family—are the most powerful tool for promoting your organization’s impact.

Leading Like a Putter, Not a Driver The best leadership isn't about the biggest, flashiest swing. It’s about reliability. Smies discusses why being consistent and dependable (like a putter) builds more trust than being powerful but erratic (like a driver).

Defining Your "North Star" Does your district have a compelling argument for change? Smies challenges leaders to ask if they are truly the most impactful part of a student's life when they look back on their journey.

Notable Quotes

"Growth is always going to be at the forefront for us, but we can't leave a collateral damage wake behind us." — Tyler Smies

"If you just do what you say you're going to do, you're probably ahead of 75% of your competition." — Tyler Smies

"Success is ultimately measured through our students... when somebody graduates high school, when they're talking about the most impactful people or programs... is First Tee a part of that conversation?" — Tyler Smies

Resources Mentioned

First Tee – West Michigan: https://firstteewestmichigan.org/

Muskegon Area Intermediate School District: https://www.muskegonisd.org/

Connect with the Speakers

Randy Lindquist (Host): LinkedIn

Tyler Smies (Guest): LinkedIn

In this episode, we sit down with Ron Gorman, who shares his journey from a second-grade teacher in Grand Rapids to becoming the Superintendent of Kent ISD . Ron discusses the unique challenges of leading at the county level, the shifting landscape of vocational education, and the critical "soft skills" that define successful district leadership.

Key Takeaways

Be a Multiplier, Not a Unilateral Leader: Ron argues that authoritarian leadership often creates "yes people" and suppresses innovation . Instead, he strives to be a "multiplier" who empowers the experts around him and collaborates with local districts and business partners before making major decisions .

The "Sunday Rule" for Mental Health: To model work-life balance, Ron enforces a rule where his team does not contact one another on Sundays unless it is a true emergency requiring a text message . He believes leaders must model the behavior of "putting the phone down" to prevent burnout .

The Rebranding of Career Tech (CTE): CTE is no longer viewed as a track for students not going to college; it is now a high-demand pathway for all students, including high achievers . Ron notes that despite serving thousands of students, waiting lists have grown to nearly 1,500, highlighting the urgent need to expand these opportunities .

Advice for New Leaders: When stepping into a new role, avoid the trap of acting like you have "arrived" or know everything . Ron advises adopting a "learner stance," observing teachers, and being transparent when you don't have the answer .

Learning from Failure: Ron shares that he has learned far more from his failures than his successes . He emphasizes that a true growth mindset involves "dusting yourself off" after a mistake and reflecting on how to do better next time .

Notable Quotes

"I strive to be a multiplier every day... I don't see collaboration as a weakness. I see collaboration as empowering those with you, and I see it as a strength."

"A leader learns more from his failures than he does from his successes."

"When you're in the first few years of your leadership journey, this is a time when you have to ask as many questions as possible. You have to be humble."

Topics Covered

Ron’s career path: From 2nd grade teacher to Superintendent

Leading a large urban district through the COVID-19 pandemic

The difference between local district leadership and ISD leadership

Addressing the CTE capacity crisis

Strategic focus: Keeping "pebbles" from distracting from the "boulders"

The importance of visibility and presence in schools

What does it mean to be "kindly accountable"? In this episode, Randy sits down with Liz Calvert, the principal of Madison High School in Virginia, to discuss her journey as an educator and leader. Liz shares her compelling argument for change, rooted in her own children's experience, which sparked her mission to equip students with "durable skills".

Liz offers powerful advice on how to lead with authenticity, navigate the difficult process of grading reform, and inspire staff, even when the work is demanding. She shares a key leadership principle: ensuring that the "adults' learning" (like implementing a new system) does not negatively impact student outcomes.

About Our Guest

Liz Calvert is the principal of Madison High School in Vienna, Virginia. With a diverse background as a history teacher, department chair, tech specialist, assessment coach, and Director of School Counseling, Liz brings a unique and holistic perspective to school leadership. She is a passionate advocate for building a positive school culture where students and staff can thrive.

Key Takeaways

• The Compelling Argument for Change: Liz's "why" is deeply personal, driven by a desire to ensure all students are prepared with durable skills (like collaboration, communication, and critical thinking) that will serve them long after high school.
• Durable Skills > Content: The episode explores using content as the tool to teach durable skills, rather than making content the final goal.
• Leading with Authenticity: Leaders must be authentic, willing to take feedback, and able to admit when they are wrong. Liz shares that her greatest joy as a principal comes from the individual moment she shares with each student at graduation.
• "Kindly Accountable": A key theme is balancing high expectations with genuine care. Liz explains that "clear is kind" and that you can be direct with people while still respecting them as a human being.
• Don't Let Adult Learning Impact Kids: When implementing a new competency-based grading system, Liz's core message to parents was, "I'm not going to allow our learning to impact your child's ability to get into college". This built the trust needed to innovate.
• Shielding Your Staff: To prevent burnout and keep staff inspired, Liz and her admin team work to "filter" district mandates and shield teachers from unnecessary work that distracts from their core mission.

Resources Mentioned

• Guest Bio: Liz Calvert, Principal, Madison High School
• Quote: "Clear is kind." - Brené Brown
• Podcast Recommendation: Lessons We Forgot (Host recommendation)

Jim shares how his leadership philosophy evolved from "my way or the highway" to a relationship-centered approach focused on one simple question: "Is it what's best for students?"

This conversation is a masterclass in staying grounded, building a "kids first" culture, and finding creative ways to provide equitable opportunities for every single student.

Key Themes & Discussion Points:

The Inspiring Teacher: Jim's entire career path was set in motion by a single middle school math teacher, Mr. Offerman, who strategically seated him next to a competitor to raise the bar for both of them.

Evolution of a Leader: Jim is candid about his early, "hard-nosed" teaching style and the realization that an admin-first, top-down approach doesn't work with staff. His philosophy is now centered on removing roadblocks so teachers and students can succeed.

The Guiding Question: In a world of constant change, Jim keeps his team focused by asking one question about every decision: "Is it what's best for students?"

Leading Through Adversity: Jim shares the difficult story of being laid off in 2011 due to state budget cuts. His focus remained entirely on the students, a lesson in maintaining a "kids first" perspective even during personal challenges.

Equity in Action (It's Not Just College):

Jim defines equity as figuring out what will make each student successful, not pushing a one-size-fits-all path.

Example 1: Kelloggsville partnered with the SME PRIME program to build a STEM facility where students can graduate with up to 18 industry certifications.

Example 2: When three female students said they wanted to go into nursing, the district "brought the nursing right to them" and started an on-campus Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program.

He notes that success is also a student trying a program in high school (for free) and discovering, "You know what? That's not for me".

How to Stay Grounded: When feeling stressed, Jim's solution is simple: "Go talk to students." He makes it a point to be in school buildings every single day, especially during passing times, to stay connected.

Advice for New Leaders:

Don't think you're the smartest person in the room.

It's okay to say, "I don't know," but you must follow up and find the answer.

Work your butt off.

Keep every decision "kid-focused".

The Power of Relationships: Jim ends with a powerful story about a challenging student, "DB," whom he taught at three different schools. That student recently returned, is now graduating from college, and wants to become a teacher or school psychologist because of the relationship they built.

Resources & Schools Mentioned:

Guest: Jim Alston, Superintendent

Host: Randy Lindquist

District: Kelloggsville Public Schools (serving parts of Wyoming and Kentwood, MI)

Program: SME PRIME (Partnership Response in Manufacturing Education)

Program: CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

Colleges:

Central Michigan University

Aquinas College

Ferris State University

Key Takeaways

Hire competitors who hate to lose. Dr. Timmis only hires administrators who hate to lose because they learn from setbacks and are driven to improve and try again.

Create a safety net for innovation. Give your team explicit permission to fail. When staff know you have their back, they feel empowered to try new things that can transform student learning.

Be a true community hub. Dr. Timmis’s district runs the local rec department, a fitness center, and the senior center, making the school system the undeniable heart of the community.

Listen to your community directly. If you sense a problem is "rumbling," call an open forum. It builds trust and reminds everyone that you're neighbors working toward a common goal.

Build a diverse network for advice. Dr. Timmis intentionally calls three types of colleagues for advice: one who will agree with his most aggressive stance, one who will suggest a passive approach, and one who is in the middle. This gives him a full spectrum of perspectives.

Lead authentically. The best advice for aspiring leaders is to ground yourself in your core beliefs and be yourself. Find what fuels your creativity and dedicate time to it every day.

Mentioned in This Episode

Dexter Community Schools

Future Learning Council (FLC)

Michigan Virtual

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

Whether you’re a veteran educator, an aspiring leader, or someone who just loves a good story, this is a conversation that will leave you inspired to lead with purpose—and maybe even call your dad.

Why you should never “skip the ending”

How temporal landmarks influence memory and motivation (Daniel Pink – When)

How to build unforgettable peak moments (Chip & Dan Heath – The Power of Moments)

Why gratitude rewires your brain for better outcomes (Chase Mielke – The Burnout Cure)

The impact of crystal-clear vision on team resilience (the story of Hiroo Onoda)

How to help every team member feel connected to the mission (feat. JFK & the janitor who was “putting a man on the moon”)

Key Quotes:

“You can never problem-solve your way to a memorable experience—you have to build peaks.” – Chip Heath

“When I look for X, I notice less Y.” – Chase Mielke

"Pay particular attention to the start and ending" =Daniel Pink
 

Whether you’re closing out the school year or wrapping up a major project, this episode reminds you that how you finish matters. Don’t coast—kick into that final gear.

🎧 Listen, reflect, and keep standing tall.

Key Topics Covered:

Leadership Journey: Debbie shares pivotal moments from her career as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and now a full-time coach and consultant.

Core Values in Leadership: Learn why courage and integrity are non-negotiables in effective school leadership, and how to align your actions with your beliefs.

Mindful Leadership: Discover how self-awareness fuels trustworthiness and informed decision-making.

The Power of Reflection & a Personal Board of Directors: Debbie encourages leaders to reflect on their formation and to surround themselves with trusted thought partners.

Her Book – Meeting the Moment: Debbie introduces ideas from her latest book focused on leading with conviction and practical strategies for navigating challenging times. Explore her publications.

Creating Brave Cultures: Understand the connection between trust, vulnerability, and student success—and how brave conversations can elevate a school’s culture.

Leadership Development Work in Michigan: Hear about her work with principals across Muskegon County and the impact of empowering people, building strong cultures, and optimizing systems.

Future of Education: Debbie reflects on the changing landscape of education and the importance of flexibility, relevance, and transferable skills.

Rapid Fire Fun: Get to know Debbie with a fun round of questions—from her guilty pleasure TV show to whether a hot dog counts as a sandwich.

🔗 Helpful Links:

Learn more about Debbie: Live Well, Lead Strong – About Debbie

Debbie’s new book: Meeting the Moment

Explore leadership coaching and workshops: Live Well, Lead Strong Services

• Transitioning from counselor to administrator

• Building school culture through daily interactions and hiring

• The importance of belonging—for students, staff, and families

• The role of national networks in educational leadership

• “Happy chickens lay eggs”—why staff wellness matters

• Patrick Lencioni’s Hungry, Humble, Smart hiring model

• Why instructional leadership begins with clarity: What are we teaching? How are we teaching it?

• Work-life alignment and the glass vs. plastic ball metaphor

Real educational transformation requires rethinking school design from the ground up—not just tweaking existing models.

• Student-Centered, Real-World Learning:

Students should work on their world problems, not just “real world” problems, to make learning personally relevant and motivating.

• Flexible, Project-Based High School Models:

Purdue Polytechnic High School eliminated rigid schedules, prioritized projects, and created adaptable physical spaces that foster engagement.

• Strong Relationships Drive Outcomes:

Deep connections between staff and students are foundational to academic and personal success.

• Equity in Design:

Low-income students deserve high-quality environments and opportunities. Design matters—physically, academically, and emotionally.

• Micro Schools as Innovation Hubs:

Smaller, more nimble schools allow for quicker innovation, personalized learning, and new approaches like work-based learning.

• New Indiana Diploma Framework:

The redesigned diploma provides flexibility, student choice, and real-world relevance—including “seals” for employment, enrollment, and enlistment readiness.

• Learning Beyond the Classroom:

Experiences like internships, speech teams, and leadership roles can count for academic credit under the new diploma model.

• Policy as a Lever for Innovation:

Changing state policy to make innovation the new norm helps reduce risk for districts and accelerates systemic change.

• The Evolving Role of Educators:

Teachers must shift from content delivery to equipping students with durable, transferable skills like communication, adaptability, and collaboration.

• Leadership that Embraces Vision and Change:

Effective school leaders balance vision with empathy, manage change, and support others in taking bold steps toward transformation.

• Authentic Leadership: Discover the significance of leading with authenticity and how it fosters trust within educational communities.

• Navigating Financial Challenges: Learn strategies for making compassionate decisions during financial constraints.

• Fostering Collaboration: Understand the importance of uniting diverse school districts under a shared vision.

• Preparing for the Future: Explore methods to equip students for careers that don’t yet exist.

• Mentorship and Legacy: Reflect on the role of mentorship in shaping a lasting leadership legacy.
 

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Nick Ceglarek’s profile on Northwest Education Services

• Dr. Nick Ceglarek on LinkedIn

• Dr. Nick Ceglarek on X (formerly Twitter)

• Grand Valley State University’s feature on Dr. Nicholas Ceglarek

• The importance of servant leadership and why putting others first builds lasting trust.
• Strategies for effective community engagement and transparent communication.
• Practical tips on achieving intentional work-life balance as an educational leader.
• Insights on integrating technology, including AI, to enhance student learning and teacher-student relationships.
• The value of career-focused education initiatives and their role in preparing students for life after high school.

Featured Quotes:

"Leadership always has to come from a heart of service—it's always about everybody else."

"You can't just tell people to take care of themselves. It has to be intentional."

"Tightening the safety net means creating systems where no student falls through the cracks."

Key Takeaways:

Strong relationships and consistent, positive communication build lasting trust.

Work-life balance requires intentional planning and boundaries.

Effective technology use in schools enhances—not replaces—teacher-student connections.

Transferable skills, like teamwork and critical thinking, are crucial for students' future success.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Adam Bayne is the Superintendent of Holton Public Schools, dedicated to student success, community engagement, and innovative education. A Holton graduate himself, Dr. Bayne's commitment drives his collaborative leadership style.

Guest

Dr. Jeffrey Collier
Michigan’s 2024 Superintendent of the Year
Learn more about the award at gomasa.org

Episode Summary

Join us as Dr. Collier reveals how focusing on systems over goals can help you build unstoppable momentum, all through the lens of three powerful words: Serve. Innovate. Empower. Discover how these principles can reshape your leadership approach and your organization’s future. Plus, learn how spotlighting everyday wins can transform staff morale and community perception in remarkable ways.

Key Topics & Takeaways

Systems vs. Goals

• Dr. Collier highlights how “we do not rise to the level of our goals, we fall to the level of our systems.”
• Emphasizes building structures and processes that consistently yield success.

Serve. Innovate. Empower.

• Three simple words that act as the guiding mission for Saginaw ISD.
• How clear, concise vision statements can unite and focus an entire organization.

The “Our Story” Initiative

• A daily storytelling platform that showcases positive wins in education.
• Improves staff morale and strengthens community perception by highlighting small, everyday moments of success.

Early Childhood Innovation

• Collaboration with Central Michigan University to reimagine preschool facilities and curriculum.
• Introducing “Green STEM Overlays,” community gardens, and onsite medical clinics to support whole-child development.

Positivity & Leadership Mindset

• Why choosing optimism and maintaining work-life balance can enrich leadership.
• Strategies for leaders to stay motivated and encourage vulnerability in themselves and their teams.

Family, Mentorship, and Personal Passions

• Dr. Collier’s personal rules at home: “Be the kindest person in the room” and “Never get outworked.”
• The value of mentorship: providing support and active listening rather than just solutions.

Mentioned Resources & Links

Saginaw Intermediate School District (Saginaw ISD)
https://www.sisd.cc
Explore the district’s mission and wide-ranging educational programs.

Our Story Initiative
Follow Saginaw ISD’s Our Story Initiative here or on any of their social media channels!

• Saginaw ISD on Facebook
• Saginaw ISD on Twitter

James Clear’s “Atomic Habits”
https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Dr. Collier references the concept of incremental gains (1% better every day) and the power of habits in personal and organizational growth.

Saginaw Public School District
https://www.spsd.net
Partner in innovative early childhood programs and community-focused initiatives.

Central Michigan University
https://www.cmich.edu
Collaborates with Saginaw ISD for curriculum development and teacher training.

About the Podcast

Standing Tall: Voices in Leadership
Hear in-depth conversations with forward-thinking leaders who are making a real difference in education. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform for more inspiring stories and actionable insights.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, consider sharing it with a colleague or friend who might find it valuable.

• The importance of place-based, project-based, and problem-based learning.

• Why ‘soft skills’ should be reframed as ‘durable skills.’

• How technology and AI can support teachers in creating more meaningful learning experiences.

• The role of leadership in fostering an innovative school culture.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Place-Based Learning

• Connecting learning to the local environment enhances student engagement and fosters a sense of belonging.

• When students understand their communities, they’re more likely to contribute to them as adults.

• Schools should integrate real-world learning opportunities into the curriculum.

2. Durable Skills: A New Way to Think About Learning

• Traditional academic subjects are important, but collaboration, creativity, and leadership are the real drivers of success.

• Calling them “soft skills” minimizes their importance—durable skills persist across industries and careers.

• Schools should find ways to assess and credential these skills beyond traditional transcripts.

3. Moving From Compliance to Agency

• Education systems often prioritize compliance (standardized tests, rigid curriculums) over student agency.

• Empowering students to take ownership of their learning leads to deeper understanding and long-term retention.

• School leaders should also foster agency in teachers by encouraging experimentation and innovation.

4. The Role of AI and Technology in the Future of Learning

• AI can handle time-consuming planning tasks, giving teachers more time for hands-on learning experiences.

• With AI managing lesson planning, educators can focus on field trips, projects, and deeper student interactions.

• While content knowledge is essential, technology makes it easier to access, making durable skills even more critical.

5. Leadership Strategies for Innovation

• Successful school leaders need high emotional intelligence, trust-building skills, and a willingness to adapt.

• Leaders should create “innovation teams” to test new learning models before rolling them out widely.

• Schools should invest in Research & Development (R&D) for education, just like businesses do.

Resources Mentioned

• The Power of Place by Nate McLennan, Emily Leptag, and Tom Vander Ark

• Getting Smart’s work on future-focused education strategies

• Future Learning Council

• Personalized, Competency-Based Learning: Dr. Steiner explains the district’s shift from traditional education models to personalized, competency-based learning, focusing on meeting each student’s unique needs and pacing.

• Student and Community Engagement: The episode highlights the significance of involving students and the community in the transformation process, ensuring that changes reflect the values and expectations of all stakeholders.

• Leadership and Innovation: Dr. Steiner emphasizes the role of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation, including embracing vulnerability, building trust, and navigating ambiguity to drive meaningful change.

Resources Mentioned:

• Northern Cass School District: Learn more about the district’s initiatives and approach to personalized learning.

• The Innovator’s Mindset by George Couros: A book recommended by Dr. Steiner on fostering innovation in education.

Call to Action:

If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe to Standing Tall on your preferred podcast platform and leave a review. Your feedback helps us continue to bring valuable content to educational leaders.

Podcast: Standing Tall: Voices in Leadership
Episode Title: Envisioning Tomorrow: Empowering Leaders to Shape the Future of Learning
Guest: Dr. David Richards, Executive Director of the Future of Learning Council

Episode Overview

In this episode, host Randy Lindquist engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. David Richards, the Executive Director of the Future of Learning Council (FLC). Dr. Richards shares his extensive experience in education and offers insights into creating personalized, competency-based learning environments that engage students and prepare them for the future.

Key Topics Discussed

Dr. Richards' Educational Journey: From classroom teacher to superintendent, and now leading the FLC, Dr. Richards discusses his career path and the experiences that have shaped his vision for education.

Formation and Mission of the Future of Learning Council: Learn about the origins of the FLC, its collaboration with Michigan Virtual, and its mission to redefine learning to better meet the needs of students. Future of Learning Council

Challenges in Transitioning to Student-Centered Learning: Dr. Richards addresses the difficulties schools face when shifting from traditional time-based structures to personalized, competency-based models, including maintaining legacy systems while innovating and managing capacity and fatigue among educators.

Success Stories and Innovative Practices: Hear about districts like Farmington Public Schools and their work with the Urban Learning Institute, as well as the impact of site visits and collaborative efforts in inspiring educational transformation.

Strategies for Educational Leaders: Dr. Richards offers advice on fostering collaboration among educators and policymakers, articulating a clear vision for the future, and building a coalition of willing participants to drive change.

Resources and Links

Future of Learning Council: Explore the mission, focus areas, and membership opportunities of the FLC.Future of Learning Council

Michigan Virtual: Learn about the organization's role in supporting educational leaders and providing innovative learning solutions. Michigan Virtual

Strong Start for Michigan’s Future of Learning Council: Read about the FLC's initiatives and impact on education in Michigan. Getting Smart

Superintendent Leadership Summit: Information on leadership development events hosted by the FLC and Michigan Virtual. Michigan Virtual

Connect with Dr. David Richards & Randy Lindquist

• LinkedIn: David Richards
• LinkedIn: Randy Lindquist

Connect with Rebecca Midles on LinkedIn

Learn more about Getting Smart

Resources Mentioned:

• Highland Academy Charter School: Formerly Highland Tech High School, the first standards-based school in the Anchorage School District.

• Reinventing Schools Coalition (RISC): An organization dedicated to transforming education systems to personalized mastery models.

• Lindsay Unified School District: A California district recognized for its performance-based learning approach.

• Future of Learning Council: A Michigan-based organization focused on defining learning to better meet the needs of students.

Connect with Randy Lindquist on LinkedIn

Key Topics Discussed

1. Critical Humility in Leadership

Naomi highlights the importance of embracing vulnerability and being open to feedback as a leader.

2. Grow Your Own Programs

Naomi discusses the Grow Your Own teacher recruitment initiative, a statewide effort to address teacher shortages by supporting paraprofessionals in becoming certified educators. Explore Michigan’s Talent Together initiative.

3. Equity in Education

A key focus of the episode is addressing inequities in career and technical education (CTE) and fostering inclusive environments. 

4. Reading Apprenticeship Model

Naomi introduces the Reading Apprenticeship approach to adolescent literacy, emphasizing metacognition and student agency. Discover the Reading Apprenticeship program.

5. Creating a Leadership Pipeline

Mentorship plays a significant role in fostering leaders. Naomi shares insights on inviting more women and people of color into leadership roles. 

• From elite college wrestler to higher education leader across three states.

• Early leadership experiences as a wrestling team captain shaped his focus on accountability and teamwork.

The Role of Community Colleges:

• Gateway to higher education and career advancement.

• MCC’s impact on economic mobility and talent development.

• The importance of affordability, accessibility, and community relevance.

• Removing Barriers to Student Success:

• The creation of the Jayhawk Hub to address non-academic challenges like food insecurity and transportation.

• Partnership with 26 community organizations to provide resources without duplication of effort.

• Outcomes: Increased retention and persistence for students receiving support.

Adapting to Change:

• Staying relevant with advancements like AI and fostering professional development for staff.

• Viewing challenges like AI as opportunities for innovation, akin to the introduction of calculators or the internet.

Leadership Lessons:

• The importance of mentorship at every stage of life and career.

• Strategic planning as a collaborative and fluid process that drives long-term success.

• Empowering leaders by encouraging ownership and personal goal-setting, including mental health priorities.

Importance of Marketing:

• Telling student success stories through billboards, podcasts (The J Talk), and other platforms.

• Highlighting programs like nursing and athletics to attract students and showcase impact.

Key Takeaways for Leaders:

1. Leverage Early Leadership Opportunities: Skills developed in small roles can lay the foundation for larger leadership responsibilities.

2. Focus on Removing Barriers: Addressing non-academic challenges enables students to focus on learning and achieve success.

3. Collaborate Strategically: Engage community partners to maximize impact and avoid duplicating efforts.

4. Stay Relevant: Embrace emerging technologies and foster adaptability within your team.

5. Plan with Flexibility: Combine long-term vision with short-term action steps, involving stakeholders to build ownership.

Learn More About Muskegon Community College

Connect with Dr. Selmon on LinkedIn

Connect with Randy Lindquist on LinkedIn

• Athletics and Leadership: Lessons from sports shaped his understanding of teamwork, resilience, and effective systems.

• Innovative Communication:

1. Tom focuses on meeting the community where they are with creative outreach methods.
2. The role of vertical video, focus groups, and quick response tools in engaging families and receiving feedback.

• Tom weaves together 30+ funding sources to support district initiatives and sustain improvements.

• Hands-On Leadership: Tom exemplifies a “lead from the front” mentality, taking on tasks from classroom cleaning to administrative problem-solving.

• Building leadership teams at all levels, empowering teachers to co-create school improvement plans and allocate resources.

• Balancing Work and Life: Tom discusses fitness, family adventures, and discovering joy through his daughter’s love of fine arts.
 

Key Takeaways for Leaders:

1. Transparent Communication: Build trust by clearly explaining decisions and inviting feedback.

2. Hands-On Leadership: Be willing to step into any role, setting an example for others to follow.

3. Resourceful Thinking: Navigate funding challenges creatively by blending multiple sources.

4. Empowering Teams: Develop leadership at every level and encourage shared decision-making.

5. Integrity as a Legacy: Focus on doing the right thing consistently, even when it’s challenging.

Learn more about Oakridge Public Schools.

Connect with Tom Livezey on LinkedIn 

Connect with Randy Lindquist on LinkedIn

Richard DuFour on Tight Loose Leadership

Clear, non-negotiable theory of action (tight) and then encouraging autonomy and creativity within its parameters (loose)