Superintendents Unplugged

In this episode of Superintendent Unplugged, host and Strategos Partner Addison Davis sits down with Rachel Fortune, President of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), to explore the power of community-driven education reform.With over 15 years of leadership experience, Fortune shares her passion for advancing educational equity and creating sustainable impact. She discusses JPEF’s role as a “think and do tank,” blending data-driven insights with real action to transform public education in Duval County. From tackling historic dropout rates to spearheading major tax referendums that secured funding for schools and educators, Fortune highlights how strategic community engagement can drive meaningful change.Davis and Fortune also dive into the importance of teacher pipeline development, literacy initiatives, and workforce readiness in the evolving education landscape. They emphasize the critical role of partnerships—between schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local government—in ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed beyond the classroom.Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or community leader, this episode delivers powerful insights on how collaboration and innovative leadership can shape the future of education. Tune in to hear how Jacksonville is setting a precedent for impactful, data-driven reform—and why every district should have a strong education foundation working alongside its schools.Listen now to Superintendent Unplugged and be inspired by the work happening in Jacksonville and beyond!Key Moments05:11 Jacksonville Schools Vision and Action07:23 Data-Driven Collaborative Strategy12:15 Imagining Future-Ready Public Schools14:01 Enhancing School-Community PartnershipsConnect with Rachel FortuneLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-tutwiler-fortune-07605429/Website: https://www.jaxpef.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Alesia Smith, Deputy Superintendent and Chief of Schools for Cincinnati Public Schools, to explore what it means to lead with both heart and strategy in today’s ever-evolving educational landscape. With over 30 years of transformative experience, Dr. Smith shares the wisdom she’s gained from turning around some of the nation’s lowest-performing schools and her unwavering belief that every child deserves access to rigorous, equitable instruction.From her early days in Cincinnati to her system-wide successes in Arkansas, Dr. Smith has consistently championed the power of strong school leadership and data-driven practices. She discusses her current work overseeing instructional development in Ohio’s third-largest district, where she’s laser-focused on strengthening Tier 1 instruction, leveraging platforms like iReady, and improving Algebra I outcomes.The conversation delves into Cincinnati’s proactive approach to AI integration, the importance of remaining connected to schools as a district leader, and the challenges and opportunities behind reconfiguring grade-level structures for long-term student success. Dr. Smith emphasizes that true progress stems from systemic, sustainable models — not isolated wins.This episode is a masterclass in courageous leadership and a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone committed to making schools work better for all students. Dr. Smith’s passion is palpable, her insight profound, and her vision for the future of public education refreshingly pragmatic.Key Moments06:02 "Balancing District and School Roles"07:05 "School Support and Impact Focus"10:20 Educational Interaction and Collaboration15:30 Systemic Educational Success in Arkansas18:18 "Superintendent Candidate: Dr. Alicia Smith"Connect with Dr. Alesia SmithLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alesia-smith-220a52218Website: https://www.cps-k12.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis, Strategos Partner, sits down with Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, Superintendent of Portland Public Schools, for an insightful conversation on leadership, literacy, and the challenges of guiding Oregon’s largest school district.Dr. Armstrong, eight months into her tenure, shares her strategic approach to driving positive change in Portland Public Schools, emphasizing three key priorities: advancing literacy, strengthening relationships, and ensuring safe and well-maintained learning environments. She highlights the urgent need for literacy reform, calling it a “civil right” and detailing the district’s city-wide book distribution campaign.Facing a $40 million budget deficit, Dr. Armstrong discusses her proactive efforts to engage the community and legislators in securing essential funding. She also speaks candidly about the importance of trust-building, particularly in the wake of a teacher strike, and her leadership in navigating Portland’s $1.8 billion bond renewal to modernize aging school facilities.Throughout the episode, Dr. Armstrong’s passion for education and commitment to equity shine as she reflects on her personal journey from childhood poverty to leading a major urban school district. With her student-first mindset, she is determined to create a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking educational environment in Portland.Key Moments00:00 Portland Challenges: Housing and Homelessness06:06 Empowering Literacy Beyond School Hours09:35 $1B Maintenance Requires Bond Funding13:13 "Portland's Inspiring Educational Leadership"14:00 "See You in Classrooms"Connect with Dr. Kimberlee ArmstrongLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kimberlee-armstrong-88172412/Website: https://www.pps.net/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Tonja M. Williams Knight, superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools and a hometown changemaker with more than three decades in education. Recorded live at the Council of the Great City Schools Conference in Dallas, this conversation captures the energy and urgency behind Dr. Williams Knight’s leadership.From school counselor to the top office, Dr. Williams Knight shares her rare journey from student to superintendent in the very district that raised her. She opens up about her signature initiative, Five by 2025—a strategic plan rooted in community voice and designed to close opportunity gaps, elevate classroom excellence, ensure safety, amplify student and parent voices, and foster high-impact partnerships.Listeners will hear how she’s transforming outcomes with a bold literacy push, early childhood investment, and a restorative, relationship-driven approach to school discipline. Davis and Williams Knight also explore the importance of building a high-performing leadership team, the complexities of post-COVID attendance, and why recruiting talent is a year-round mission in Buffalo.Dr. Williams Knight’s deep roots and relentless commitment to equity make her story not just inspiring—but instructive for educational leaders nationwide. She leads with heart, strategy, and a sense of purpose that’s reshaping what it means to serve an urban district.Key Moments06:04 "Community-Driven Superintendent Initiative"07:57 "Prioritizing Safety and Community Involvement"10:30 Guidance for Future Success15:15 Early Childhood Programs: Urban Education's Game Changer16:41 Unapologetically Recruiting Top TalentConnect with Dr. Tonja M WilliamsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tonja-m-williams-59940514Website: https://www.buffaloschools.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Joe Gothard, 2024 AASA National Superintendent of the Year and proud Madison native, for an insightful and heartfelt conversation on leadership, resilience, and coming full circle.Dr. Gothard, who began his journey in education as a biology teacher at his alma mater, La Follette High School, shares the powerful story of returning to lead the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD)—the same district where he was once a student, teacher, and parent. In a remarkable twist of fate, the very day he accepted the MMSD superintendent position, he was also named the top superintendent in the nation.Together, Davis and Gothard unpack the lessons learned from leading through adversity, including the pandemic, community tragedies, and the complex political realities facing superintendents today. Gothard speaks candidly about the importance of knowing your values, embracing failure, and fostering inclusivity in school systems. He reflects on his leadership in St. Paul, where he launched groundbreaking equity-driven initiatives such as the East African Elementary Magnet School and expanded dual-language and career pathway programs.Throughout the episode, listeners get a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead with heart, humility, and vision. From navigating national recognition to reconnecting with his roots, Dr. Gothard offers a masterclass in servant leadership—and a powerful reminder that coming home is often the boldest move of all.Key Moments06:12 "Prioritize Listening Over Reacting"09:14 Preparing for Leadership and Community Alignment10:09 Navigating Superintendent Political Role14:02 "Redefining Possibilities in Leadership"Connect with Dr. Joe Gothard LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joegothard/Website: https://www.madison.k12.wi.us/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Morris Leis, Superintendent of Coffee County Schools in Georgia. Recorded live at the AASA Conference, the conversation offers an in-depth look at Dr. Leis’ remarkable 16-year journey as a superintendent, including 14 years leading his hometown district.A native of Coffee County, Dr. Leis shares how returning home wasn’t just a professional move—it was a personal calling. From his early days as a social studies teacher to his leadership roles across Ben Hill and Wayne counties, Dr. Leis brings a wealth of experience and a steady hand to district leadership. In this episode, he opens up about the importance of board relationships, consistent communication, and hiring strong school leaders.Listeners will hear how Dr. Leis has championed community trust through the strategic use of ESPLOST funding—building state-of-the-art facilities like new elementary schools, a performing arts center, and a naval JROTC indoor training center. His focus on safety is equally strong, having established an in-district police department and layered security systems across all schools.Above all, Dr. Leis speaks to the heart of what it means to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to student success. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a new leader in the field, this episode offers invaluable insights into sustaining leadership, building community partnerships, and creating a district culture rooted in care and excellence.Key Moments03:24 Transparent Communication with Board Members08:30 New Indoor Multi-Use Facility12:13 Building a Community Police Department14:18 Gaggle's Role in Student Safety16:28 Doctor Morris Leis in GeorgiaConnect with Dr. Morris LeisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morris-leis-b3142934/Website: https://www.coffee.k12.ga.us/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with two of the nation’s most respected education leaders—Dr. Kristi Wilson and Dr. Susan Enfield—for an unfiltered conversation on leadership, resilience, and the realities of the superintendency. Together, they delve into their new book, On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired, a candid chronicle of 40 superintendents navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the political and professional turbulence that followed.Dr. Wilson, former president of AASA and long-time superintendent in Arizona, and Dr. Enfield, a nationally recognized former superintendent from Nevada and Washington, reflect on the urgent need to reframe the narrative around superintendents—not as embattled bureaucrats but as committed public servants with unmatched passion for students and communities. They explore themes like mentorship, systemic equity, political acumen, and the power of networks that sustain leaders through crises.What emerges is not just a book, but a blueprint—for current and aspiring superintendents to find strength, strategy, and solidarity in a job that’s as rewarding as it is relentless. From war stories to wisdom, the episode is a tribute to the courage and complexity of the role—and a call to action for communities to support those who lead their schools forward.Key Moments04:00 Celebrating the Superintendent Role07:56 Superintendents: Dedicated to Service11:02 Keys to Success: Prepare, Listen, Connect14:53 Team Building & Situational Awareness17:05 "Engaging and Aligning with the Board"19:19 Lessons from Crisis ManagementConnect with Dr. Kristi WilsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-wilson-ed-d-28597933/Connect with Dr. Susan EnfieldLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanaenfield/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Devon Horton, superintendent of Georgia’s DeKalb County School District—home to over 92,000 students and the third-largest school system in the state. Broadcasting from AASA’s national conference, this candid conversation dives into Dr. Horton’s 25-year journey in public education and the bold transformation he’s leading in DeKalb.From his early teaching days in Chicago Public Schools to his leadership roles in East St. Louis, Louisville, and Evanston, Horton shares how every step shaped his philosophy: “students don’t fail—systems do.” Now at the helm of DeKalb, he’s reimagining those systems with precision and vision.Listeners will hear how Dr. Horton restructured DeKalb’s regional model to provide laser-focused support through the district’s Horizon initiative—a bold approach targeting the most vulnerable schools with intensive resources, coaching, and academic leadership. He discusses his strategic hiring of 63 new principals and a revamped leadership cabinet, bringing in top-tier talent to match the district’s ambition.Dr. Horton also unpacks DeKalb’s innovative moves—from launching elementary sports to planning a districtwide STEAM initiative and a sweeping student assignment redesign. Throughout, Davis highlights Horton’s values-driven leadership, commitment to equity, and relentless drive to ensure every student has access to opportunity.Key Moments04:43 Evolution of Leadership in DeKalb07:14 Educational Transformation and Leadership Focus11:11 Hiring and Supporting Effective Principals14:14 High-Impact School Closure Strategy16:03 District-Wide STEAM and Athletic RevampConnect with Dr. Devon HortonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-devon-horton-53690661Website: https://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. David K. Moore, Superintendent of the School District of Indian River County, for a masterclass in transformative educational leadership. As a former counselor turned nationally recognized superintendent, Dr. Moore brings a compelling blend of heart, strategy, and unrelenting drive to his work—qualities that have propelled his district from the bottom third in Florida to the state’s top ten.Dr. Moore candidly shares the playbook behind Indian River’s extraordinary rise: a relentless focus on data—not just academic outcomes, but also adult behavior and operational efficiency—paired with a districtwide redesign that flattens hierarchy and accelerates decision-making. The results are staggering: a 96% graduation rate, a 95% rate of schools earning “A” or “B” grades, and a leap from 38th to 9th in state rankings since 2018-2019.More than numbers, Moore’s story is rooted in a deep commitment to equity and innovation. From rebuilding financial stability to launching strategic plans like ACHIEVE 2025 and the African American Achievement Plan, Moore has crafted a model of leadership that balances urgency with empowerment. His passion for systems thinking, staff ownership, and student success is evident in every initiative—and every word of this interview.If you’re looking to understand what it truly means to lead with impact in public education, this episode delivers an unfiltered, inspirational look at how one superintendent is rewriting the future for an entire community.Key Moments02:12 From Miami-Dade to Indian River03:45 Taking SDIRC from 38th to 9th in Florida05:18 The secret sauce: using data on adult behavior and meeting efficiency to drive outcomes.07:06 "Think fast, act faster"08:31 Breaking down silos with dual reporting lines10:02 Pandemic as a leadership accelerator11:37 From school counselor to superintendent13:05 Designing for impact14:48 Clarifying who makes which decisions16:00 Building a culture of ownership, not just accountabilityConnect with Dr. David K. MooreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-david-k-moore-0445a1342/Website: https://www.indianriverschools.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host and former superintendent Addison Davis sits down with two powerhouse educational leaders—and cousins—Dr. Ariel Lajara and Dr. Renato Lajara, both Assistant Superintendents in the School District of Philadelphia. What unfolds is more than a professional conversation; it’s a moving, unfiltered exploration of family legacy, community resilience, and transformative leadership in urban education.Born of humble beginnings—where their fathers left school early to support their families—the Lajara cousins have turned personal history into professional purpose. Ariel, a product of Philadelphia’s public schools, and Renato, who emigrated from the Dominican Republic at age seven, both found education not only as a career but as a calling to serve the communities that raised them.Together, they dive into what’s working in Philly: data-driven decision-making, authentic community partnerships, and a relentless focus on empowering students and principals alike. From reclaiming the dinner table as a space for values-driven leadership to building equitable, high-performing schools, their approach is deeply human and unapologetically strategic.Listeners will hear how the Lajaras have built trust, dismantled silos, and shifted mindsets—proving that when leadership is grounded in service, systems change becomes not only possible, but sustainable. It’s a masterclass in educational leadership and a heartfelt reminder that the path to student success is paved with grit, vision, and heart.Key Moments03:15 Family Legacy: From Dropouts to Doctorates06:42 Returning to Philly: Leading Where They Were Raised09:38 Reclaiming the Dinner Table for Educational Equity13:56 From Compliance to Authentic Student Engagement17:21 Instructional Leadership Over Operations20:45 Empowering Principals as Change Agents24:12 Building Community Partnerships and Parent Trust28:03 Data-Driven Growth and Academic Gains31:19 Common Language, Shared Vision35:47 Servant Leadership: Supporting, Not SupervisingConnect with Dr. Ariel LajaraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ariel-lajara-6b6a8421b/Website: https://www.philasd.org/Connect with Dr. Renato LajaraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-renato-m-lajara-b3206487/Website: https://www.philasd.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. John VanWagoner, Superintendent of Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS), for a candid conversation on leadership, innovation, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of public education.With more than two decades of experience spanning the classroom, county, and state levels, Dr. VanWagoner offers listeners a grounded yet forward-thinking perspective on what it takes to lead a modern school district. From his early days as a teacher to his time at the Michigan Department of Education and now at the helm of TCAPS, he shares powerful insights into the challenges and opportunities superintendents face in today’s climate.The two discuss the value of national conferences like AASA, the importance of building trusted networks with fellow leaders, and the necessity of adapting to political and financial headwinds—including the looming uncertainty around federal funding. Dr. VanWagoner also underscores the power of student voice and community engagement, calling them essential tools in making informed, impactful decisions.This episode is more than a conversation—it's a masterclass in superintendent leadership, packed with practical takeaways for aspiring and veteran leaders alike. Whether you're leading a district or supporting one, Dr. VanWagoner’s reflections on resilience, collaboration, and the pursuit of what's best for kids are sure to resonate.Key Moments06:15 Navigating Political Challenges in Education08:40 Career Insights in Education Management13:28 Financial Constraints Post-COVID16:21 Empowering Student Voices17:26 "Superintendent Insights: Student Engagement"Connect with Dr. John VanWagonerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-vanwagoner-07bb80190/Website: https://www.tcaps.net/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host and Strategos Partner Addison Davis sits down with Dr. John B. Gordon III, Superintendent of Suffolk Public Schools, to explore what it truly means to lead with both innovation and impact. With over 27 years of experience in education, Dr. Gordon shares how his career—from substitute teacher and basketball coach to superintendent—has shaped his student-first philosophy and bold leadership style.Listeners will hear how Suffolk is redefining educational access with Virginia’s only elementary-level STEM lab school, a visionary partnership with 21st Century Ed. Dr. Gordon breaks down how early STEM exposure is transforming learning, offering students hands-on experience with 3D printing, maker spaces, and more—starting as early as kindergarten.But the conversation doesn’t stop at instruction. Dr. Gordon and Davis delve into district branding, equity, and student engagement through an unprecedented Nike partnership that reaches every school level. From fresh turf fields to custom gear, it’s all part of fostering pride and identity in the Suffolk community.Navigating today’s politically charged educational landscape, Dr. Gordon offers wisdom on “staying purple,” maintaining focus on students amid partisan pressures, and building strong board relationships. His honest reflections on leadership, strategy, and sustainability offer inspiration and actionable advice for aspiring superintendents nationwide.Key Moments02:15 Dr. Gordon on the value of superintendent networking—shared struggles, shared solutions. 04:40 Launching Virginia’s only elementary STEM lab school—innovation starts early. 08:20 How a district-wide Nike deal builds pride, equity, and student engagement. 10:45 Branding meets strategy—using partnerships to create self-sufficiency and belonging. 12:00 Innovation means doing things differently—not just doing more. 16:10 Navigating polarized politics—why staying “purple” keeps kids at the center. 21:00 Onboarding new board members with purpose—context, connection, and clarity. 26:30 Advice for aspiring superintendents: study the climate, build your coalition, stay authentic. 29:10 Leading with data, relationships, and vision—sustaining a district-wide culture of excellence.Connect with Dr. John B. Gordon IIILinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbgordoniii/Website: https://www.spsk12.net/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged: In-Depth with Davis, host Addison Davis sits down with trailblazing educational leader Dr. Tiffany Anderson, a seasoned superintendent whose 20+ year career spans three states and a powerful legacy of breaking racial and gender barriers.As the first African American female superintendent in several school districts—including Topeka, Kansas, home of the historic Brown v. Board case—Dr. Anderson shares her deeply personal journey of leading with purpose, building equity, and transforming communities through systems-level change.From restoring full accreditation in struggling districts to cutting homelessness by over 50%, her data-driven, community-centered strategies have turned theory into action. Davis and Anderson delve into the unique challenges of modern educational leadership, the growing intersection of politics and public education, and the importance of building relationships—whether it's at the board table or in the grocery store aisle.They explore how authentic engagement, parent advocacy, and wraparound services have shaped her success, and how superintendents today can sustain impact by focusing on systems, not just programs.Key Moments04:56 Loved directing the curriculum and solving departmental challenges.06:46 Long-term curriculum leadership navigating educational standards.09:24 Focus on control, support, and accountability.13:30 Students with disabilities show growth and understanding.18:02 Get to know your team; encourage partnership.Connect with Tiffany AndersonWebsite:https://www.topekapublicschools.net/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged: In Depth with Davis, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross, Superintendent of Ypsilanti Community Schools and a nationally recognized leader in educational equity and innovation. With over 13 years in the superintendent seat and a remarkable turnaround legacy, Dr. Zachery-Ross brings insight, grace, and an unshakable commitment to public education.Recorded live at the AASA National Conference, this conversation explores the power of mentorship, the necessity of political engagement, and the urgency of providing equitable access to transformative tools like AI. Dr. Zachery-Ross reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to a superintendent who empowers colleagues and communities alike, sharing how her leadership philosophy—rooted in authenticity, vision, and support—has inspired lasting impact.Listeners will hear candid reflections on the pressures and responsibilities of leading through crisis, how she builds resilient educational ecosystems, and why it’s critical for marginalized students to see themselves in leadership. With accolades like the Effie Jones Humanitarian Award and recognition for her work in AI, Dr. Zachery-Ross proves that systemic change is not only possible—it’s necessary.Whether you’re an aspiring superintendent, a seasoned educator, or simply passionate about education, this episode offers rich takeaways on leadership, legacy, and lifting others as you climb. Tune in to hear why Dr. Zachery-Ross is one of the most sought-after voices in education today—and how she’s shaping the future, one district at a time.Key Moments:02:10 Dr. Zachery-Ross reflects on 13 years as a superintendent—why longevity matters.03:28 Mentorship is reciprocal—supporting others sharpens her own leadership.06:08 Receiving the Dr. Effie Jones Humanitarian Award affirms her impact.06:47 Advocates for AI access in underserved communities—equity through technology.08:43 Educators must lead ethical tech use—learning from past mistakes.10:00 From apolitical educator to active policy advocate—superintendents must engage.12:16 Advice for new superintendents: know yourself, know your community, build your network.15:30 Fostering a fail-safe culture empowers teams to innovate and stay.16:20 Celebrating leadership that sustains purpose, resilience, and hope.Connect with Dr. Alena Zachery-RossLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alenazacheryross/Website: https://www.ycschools.us/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host and former superintendent Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Maria Vazquez, Superintendent of Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), to explore the heart of educational leadership at scale. As the first Latina superintendent of Florida’s eighth-largest district—with over 208,000 students and 213 schools—Dr. Vazquez shares a deeply personal and powerful journey from a first-generation American to a trailblazing educational leader.Dr. Vazquez, the daughter of Cuban immigrants, recounts how her early struggles as an English learner shaped a lifelong mission: ensuring every child, regardless of background, feels safe, supported, and positioned for success. In their candid conversation, Davis and Vazquez reflect on the complexities of following a legacy leader, navigating Florida’s evolving education policies, and managing the political demands that now define the superintendency.Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at OCPS’s remarkable 96% graduation rate, the district’s reputation for cultivating national education leaders, and the strength of its diverse, community-driven leadership team. Dr. Vazquez emphasizes the role of equity, not as a buzzword, but as a moral imperative—making sure every student gets what they need to thrive.With warmth, wisdom, and a touch of humor, the episode showcases Dr. Vazquez’s passion for public education, her collaborative leadership style, and the strong civic partnerships that fuel OCPS’s success. This episode is both a masterclass in educational leadership and an inspiring tribute to the transformative power of public schools.Key Moments05:46 Creating Successful Learning Environments06:39 Cultivating Skilled Leaders in Orange County10:00 Diverse Board Drives Student Success13:38 Shared Goals in Education18:09 Community Support for Education InitiativesConnect with Dr. Maria VazquezLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-f-vazquezWebsite: https://www.ocps.net/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Tony B. Watlington, superintendent of The School District of Philadelphia, for a candid and energizing conversation about transforming one of the nation’s largest and most complex public school systems. Live from the Council of the Great City Schools Conference in Dallas, Dr. Watlington reflects on his first three years at the helm of Philadelphia’s schools—highlighting early wins, key strategies, and the relentless drive behind “Accelerate Philly,” the district’s ambitious five-year strategic plan.Drawing on nearly three decades of PK-16 leadership, Dr. Watlington shares how strategic hiring, community engagement, and unwavering focus on student achievement are driving progress. Under his leadership, Philadelphia has seen gains in academic performance, graduation rates, and teacher and student attendance, while dropout rates are on the decline. But this isn’t just about numbers—Watlington’s personal connection to the students he serves is clear: “This is not just a job. It’s personal.”The episode dives into three core priorities reshaping the district: accelerating academic achievement through aligned curriculum, improving customer service and community responsiveness, and building authentic partnerships with families. Davis and Watlington also discuss the importance of collaborative leadership, union partnerships, and creating a team of “first-round draft picks” to move the district forward.Key Moments03:45 Strategic Growth and Achievements07:21 Outsider Superintendent's Success Strategy12:08 Accelerating Academic Achievement Initiatives14:31 Improving Customer Service Feedback16:41 "Aligning Local Delegation for Community"21:07 Guidelines for Effective Leadership22:28 Doc's Leadership Transforms PhillyConnect with Dr. Tony B. WatlingtonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-b-watlington-sr-ed-d-a14b845bWebsite: https://www.philasd.org/leadership/ 

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Tricia McManus, Superintendent of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, for a dynamic conversation about what it means to lead with vision, courage, and compassion.With more than 30 years in public education, most of it spent in Hillsborough County, Florida, McManus brings a deep well of experience and a crystal-clear focus to the work of equity, access, and instructional excellence. From her roots as a teacher and principal to her leadership in school transformation and professional development, her journey is a masterclass in how to scale impact while staying grounded in purpose.McManus shares the bold strategic framework guiding her district’s Future Ready plan, anchored in deeper learning, inclusive practices, and a culture of belonging. She opens up about how she earned the community’s trust, the power of showing up in every space, and the shift from intention to execution that every leader must make to drive real change.You’ll also hear her take on principal pipelines, the importance of adult wellness, and why leading with authenticity is non-negotiable in today’s education landscape.Whether you’re a new leader looking for a blueprint or a veteran searching for renewed purpose, Tricia McManus offers wisdom, humility, and practical strategies for creating a school system that doesn’t just function, but thrives. This is one conversation you don’t want to miss.Key Moments05:11 "Growth Through Experience and Movement"06:16 Pandemic Leadership Transition09:39 "Vision for Inclusive Learning"13:02 Building Strong School Leadership17:41 "Strategy for Superintendency Success"19:36 "Proud of Your Dedication"Connect with Tricia McManusWebsite: https://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with veteran superintendent Jerry Almendarez, a 15-year leader whose career has been defined by resilience, heart, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.Now leading Santa Ana Unified School District—after decades of service in Colton, the very district where he once walked the halls as a student—Jerry shares a full-circle journey few in education ever experience. From becoming the first Latino superintendent in his hometown to navigating the challenges of stepping into a new district mid-pandemic, he opens up about what it truly takes to lead with longevity and integrity.Jerry doesn’t sugarcoat the role. He talks openly about the personal toll leadership can take—hospital stays from stress, the emotional burden of the job—and how he learned to lead more sustainably by building trust, empowering his team, and embracing the power of social media to connect with his community.Whether you’re a new superintendent, a veteran in the seat, or simply passionate about education, Jerry’s story is packed with wisdom: on values-aligned leadership, the importance of community trust, and the kind of mindset it takes to stay in the game—without losing yourself in the process.Key Moments00:00 Career Transition to Santa Ana07:32 Superintendent Navigates Challenges via Social Media10:29 "Importance of Delegating Leadership"11:42 Leading with Social InfluenceConnect with Jerry Almendarez LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-almendarezWebsite: https://www.sausd.us

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Warren Morgan, CEO of Cleveland Metropolitan School District, for a candid and insightful conversation on leading through challenge, driving innovation, and staying rooted in purpose. Recorded live at the Council of the Great City Schools’ 68th annual fall conference in Dallas, this episode explores Dr. Morgan’s first-year milestones—including the historic achievement of CMSD meeting Ohio’s state standards for the first time ever.Dr. Morgan reflects on returning to Cleveland, a city where he has deep personal and professional ties, to lead during a time of fiscal strain and high expectations. With a background spanning classroom teaching, principalship, nonprofit leadership, and even a White House Fellowship, Morgan shares how his diverse journey shaped his student-centered leadership philosophy.Listeners will hear how Morgan tackled a looming $200 million budget deficit without cutting school-based resources—making bold central office reductions while simultaneously negotiating the highest raises CMSD staff had ever seen. He outlines how an inclusive listening tour, a laser-focused strategic plan, and intentional alignment from central office to classroom helped drive rapid academic gains.This episode is not just a playbook for educational turnaround—it’s a testament to what’s possible when courageous leadership meets community-driven vision. Whether you're a seasoned superintendent or an aspiring educator, Dr. Morgan’s journey offers real-world insight and inspiration for transforming systems to serve all students equitably.Key Moments05:23 Strategic Planning for Educational Success07:10 Facing Budget Shortfalls in Education09:45 "Community Supports Operational Staff Pay"14:07 Value of Mentorship Networking16:04 "Thank You, Inspiring Leadership"Connect with Dr. Warren MorganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warren-morgan-edd-933620113Website: https://www.clevelandmetroschools.org/

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host and Strategos Partner Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Brent Jones, Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, for a candid and compelling conversation about leadership, equity, and transformative change in urban education. Recorded live at the 68th Annual Council of Great City Schools Conference in Dallas, Texas, the discussion offers an in-depth look at how Dr. Jones is steering one of the nation's largest school districts through complex challenges with vision and integrity.A proud product of Seattle Public Schools himself, Dr. Jones brings a deeply personal and professional perspective to the superintendent role. With roots in K-12 and higher education—and a career grounded in educational justice and organizational transformation—he shares how his leadership team, in partnership with civic and community stakeholders, is reimagining what well-resourced schools look like. The episode dives into Seattle's enrollment declines, the fiscal realities of post-pandemic education, and the district’s strategic push toward school consolidation with community trust at the forefront.Dr. Jones also reflects on the importance of infrastructure—transportation efficiency, IT reliability, and talent recruitment—as essential pillars of student success. With the recent extension of his contract, he speaks to the stability and forward momentum this brings to Seattle’s next strategic phase. This conversation is a must-listen for education leaders, policymakers, and anyone invested in the future of public education.Key Moments04:20 "Community Partnership for Education"09:11 Addressing Structural Budget Deficit11:21 Managing Change in School Closures15:29 Urban Family Retention Challenges17:54 Timely Infrastructure and Education Analytics20:53 Celebrating Leadership and InclusivityConnect with Dr. Brent JonesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-jones-ph-d-3359aa40Website: https://www.seattleschools.org/