Stories from the Field: The Superintendent Podcast

Institute for Education Innovation

Welcome to "Stories from the Field: The Superintendent Podcast," where we explore education leadership with a focus on equity. Join us as we delve into inspiring narratives, challenges, and triumphs of diverse superintendents shaping the future of education. Each episode takes you to their districts, sharing unique stories and innovative strategies to ensure every student receives a quality education. Discover how they navigate challenges like achievement gaps, inclusivity, and cultural responsiveness in the evolving educational landscape.

  1. Elevating Student Success, Community Schools, and Leadership Practices with Dr. Roberto Hernandez

    Apr 10

    Elevating Student Success, Community Schools, and Leadership Practices with Dr. Roberto Hernandez

    In this episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Roberto Hernandez, Network Instructional Superintendent from San Antonio Independent School District, Texas. You'll hear Dr. Roberto Hernandez reflect on his journey from a first-generation college student and bilingual classroom teacher to an influential district leader. He shares how those early experiences shaped his belief in the power of strong relationships, high expectations, and community partnerships. The conversation explores data-driven strategies for closing achievement gaps, the importance of student ownership, and innovative approaches like wraparound services and community schools. They also talk candidly about the realities of school consolidations, the need for transparency, and how to keep equity and support for underserved students at the forefront, even in times of budget cuts and tough decisions. This episode highlights the central role public schools play in our communities and why continued support and conversation matter now more than ever. Join us for insights, inspiration, and practical wisdom from the field. Key Moments06:11 "Prioritizing Equity in Education"08:47 Improving Math Through Data Analysis13:43 Student Ownership Drives Success14:42 "Student Ownership and Support Initiatives"18:54 Parent Partnerships Enhance Community Support24:33 "Balancing Support Amid School Closures"27:13 Community Engagement During Transitions29:28 "Power of Public Schools" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Roberto Hernandez brings a deeply human-centered approach to leadership, shaped by his roots as a bilingual teacher. He shares how relationships, family engagement, and honoring students’ identities drive stronger outcomes across diverse communities. Learn how he tackles persistent achievement gaps through data-driven systems and high-quality instruction. From supporting multilingual learners to ensuring access to grade-level content, this episode highlights practical strategies that move beyond intervention and toward real equity. Gain insight into his work building community schools and wraparound supports that extend beyond the classroom. He reveals how strong partnerships, clear roles, and trust-centered communication help schools support both students and families—even in times of constraint and change. Connect with Dr. Roberto Hernandez LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hernandez-ed-d-837a96146 Website: https://www.saisd.net/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    31 min
  2. Building Trust and Excellence through Strategic Planning and Communication with Dr. Kelley Gallt

    Apr 10

    Building Trust and Excellence through Strategic Planning and Communication with Dr. Kelley Gallt

    In this episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Kelley Gallt, superintendent of Lake Zurich Community Unit School District 95, just outside Chicago. She shares her district’s journey with the Empower 95 strategic plan, detailing an inclusive visioning process that authentically elevates student, staff, family, and community voices. You’ll hear how student input directly shaped district direction, the steps taken to foster transparency and accountability, and the ways communication and recognition have transformed her staff culture. We also explore how Dr. Kelley Gallt’s focus on clear, consistent communication built trust during the pandemic, the impact of celebrating staff legacies through innovative tools, and the district’s impressive achievement of multiple National Blue Ribbon School designations., including recognition for closing achievement gaps. Tune in to get inspired by how one district is defining excellence, strengthening relationships, and creating opportunities for all learners, backed by the power of strong community partnerships and a supportive school board. Key Moments04:53 "Adaptive Strategic Planning Redesign"08:26 "Strengthening Communication Through Connection"09:31 Advisory Teams Enhance Communication14:10 "Building Bonds in Education"17:39 "Prioritizing Resources for Students"20:27 "Improving Strategies for Success" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Kelley Gallt is redefining strategic planning by putting students at the center of every decision. From co-creating Empower 95 with students, staff, and community members to building ongoing stakeholder engagement, she shares how authentic voice drives meaningful change. Learn how she builds a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability through consistent communication and collaborative systems. This episode highlights how evolving strategies, clear goals, and shared ownership keep districts aligned—even in times of disruption. Gain insight into her approach to staff culture and student success. From strengthening teacher-to-teacher trust to achieving Blue Ribbon recognition through continuous improvement, she shows how investing in people, partnerships, and data leads to lasting impact.Connect with Dr. Kelley GalltLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-gallt-693a13269 Website: https://www.lz95.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    25 min
  3. From Crisis to Excellence: Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency’s Strategic Approach in Florida

    Apr 10

    From Crisis to Excellence: Superintendent Dr. Rick Surrency’s Strategic Approach in Florida

    In today’s episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright talked to Dr. Rick Surrency, superintendent of Putnam County Schools in Florida, who takes us on a journey through the remarkable turnaround his district has achieved. In this candid conversation, Dr. Rick Surrency shares how Putnam County, once facing the challenge of 11 schools labeled as D or F, transformed through a systematic approach, community engagement, and a focus on elevating both student outcomes and teacher retention. We hear about innovative programs in STEM and career pathways, including partnerships that give students access to emerging fields like aerospace, and even opportunities for them to earn pilot licenses. Dr. Rick Surrency dives into the unique perspective of being an elected superintendent, describing how sustained leadership has been critical to building trust and securing a $300 million investment for school revitalization. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or someone passionate about the future of public education, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories of progress, from improved graduation rates to meaningful community partnerships. Join us as we celebrate success from Putnam County and explore what it truly takes to achieve lasting change in our schools. Key Moments04:41 "Elected Leadership vs. Appointed"06:53 "K-12 STEM Future Focus"13:06 Teacher Retention Through Mentorship16:50 "Florida Teacher Support Initiatives"18:06 "Retaining High-Quality Teachers"21:31 "Trust Drives Community Leadership" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Rick Surrency led a dramatic district turnaround by focusing on systems, high expectations, and instructional consistency. He shares how Putnam County moved from widespread low-performing schools to one of the fastest-improving districts in the nation. Learn how community trust and engagement became the foundation for sustainable change. From parent involvement to a $300M school investment, this episode shows how aligning schools with the community drives real results. Gain insight into his practical approach to student relevance and teacher retention. From career pathways and STEM programs to a 93% teacher retention rate, he reveals how purpose, support, and real-world opportunities transform outcomes.Connect with Dr. Rick Surrency LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-surrency-221a69a5 Website: https://www.putnamschools.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    25 min
  4. From 35th to 2nd: Superintendent Russell Hughes Shares Keys to District Success

    Apr 10

    From 35th to 2nd: Superintendent Russell Hughes Shares Keys to District Success

    In this episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Russell Hughes, superintendent of Walton County School District, Florida. Together, they explore Russell's remarkable journey of moving his district from 35th in the state to an impressive number 2 ranking. He opens up about the challenges he faced stepping into district leadership, from unifying diverse communities to radically improving graduation rates. He shares the inside story of EPIC, a cultural framework that has become a rallying call in his district and beyond, and discusses the power of visionary leadership, data-driven decision making, and the importance of staying centered on values like faith, family, and student opportunity. Whether it’s navigating the realities of an elected superintendent, establishing innovative magnet programs that attract and retain students, or ensuring every child across wide-ranging communities finds their unique pathway to success, this episode is full of practical insights and inspiration for educators and leaders at every level. Key Moments04:26 "Data-Driven Decisions Matter"09:06 "Serving Board and Community Goals"13:13 "Building Futures Through Education"15:32 "Creating Opportunities for All"17:44 "Impacting God's Children" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Russell Hughes transformed his district from 35th to 2nd in the state by building a unified vision and culture. He shares how the EPIC framework became a powerful driver for alignment, accountability, and continuous improvement across every school. Learn how he uses data with precision to uncover hidden challenges and drive real outcomes. From fixing reporting systems to closing graduation gaps, this episode shows how disciplined, data-driven leadership leads to sustained growth year after year. Gain insight into his people-centered leadership rooted in purpose, faith, and opportunity. From innovative programs like the Magnet Innovation Center to reclaiming students at risk, he demonstrates how strong values and bold action can transform outcomes for every student.Connect with Russell HughesWebsite: https://www.walton.k12.fl.us/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    22 min
  5. Transforming High School: Dr. Kara Casimiro’s Journey to Wall-to-Wall Academies in Danbury

    Apr 10

    Transforming High School: Dr. Kara Casimiro’s Journey to Wall-to-Wall Academies in Danbury

    In today’s episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Kara Casimiro from Danbury Public Schools, a leader who has spent nearly three decades transforming the educational experience for students in her district. You'll hear how Dr. Casimiro and her team tackled declining student engagement and attendance by fundamentally rethinking the high school model, drawing inspiration from the Academies of Nashville and implementing a wall-to-wall academy approach. With a focus on equity, hands-on learning, and community involvement, Dr. Casimiro shares the strategies that have helped increase access to career pathways, prepare students for the workforce, and reconnect families with their schools, even amidst the challenges of the pandemic. This episode is packed with insights on leadership, overcoming adversity, and building high-expectation, opportunity-rich environments for all students. If you're interested in creative approaches to attendance, student engagement, and ensuring every child has a path to success, you won’t want to miss this story from the field. Key Moments04:48 Building Opportunities Amid Overcrowding09:30 Engaged Learning Through CLABs12:50 Closing Attendance Gaps Post-COVID15:31 Addressing Bilingual Education Challenges17:18 Supporting Families in Survival Mode21:23 Support Through Shared Stories Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Kara Casimiro is rethinking high school through real-world learning and student choice. She shares how early signs in attendance and engagement led to a bold shift toward a wall-to-wall academy model for all students. Learn how her team turned the pandemic into a moment for innovation. From hands-on labs to career pathways and industry credentials, this episode shows how relevance drives engagement and motivation. Gain insight into her equity-driven leadership approach. She highlights improving attendance through family outreach, supporting multilingual communities, and creating opportunities that prepare every student for what comes next.Connect with Dr. Kara CasimiroLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-casimiro-ed-d-9ab836b Website: https://www.danbury.k12.ct.us/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    22 min
  6. Crafting Purpose and Student Success with Dr. Wayne Vickers

    Apr 10

    Crafting Purpose and Student Success with Dr. Wayne Vickers

    Today, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Wayne Vickers, the founding superintendent of Alabaster City Schools in Alabama. Together, they dive into Dr. Vickers’ journey of leading the district since 2013, building a culture of excellence, and establishing programs that ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.  From transforming academic performance and cultivating diversity, to launching the innovative Champions Craft Academy and supporting multilingual learners, Dr. Vickers shares candid insights and leadership lessons from his years of service. Whether you’re an educator, leader, or passionate about public education, this conversation offers inspiration, practical takeaways, and a celebration of what it means to truly serve every child, every day. Key Moments04:15 "Dream Big, Achieve Big"08:34 "Champions Craft Academy Program"12:33 "Education and Workforce Success"15:40 "Diversity & Multilingual Excellence"19:22 Robot Enhancing Adolescent Literacy21:41 "Do Best by Every Child"23:46 "Leadership Lessons in Education" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Wayne Vickers built a school system from the ground up with a bold vision of “Champions of Our Future.” He shares how purpose-driven leadership, belief in every child, and a strong community foundation transformed Alabaster into a top-performing district. Learn how he turned gaps into opportunities through innovative programs like the Champions Craft Academy. This episode highlights how listening to students and community needs led to real-world pathways, workforce partnerships, and life-changing outcomes for every learner. Gain insight into his people-first leadership approach rooted in belonging, relationships, and high expectations. From supporting multilingual learners to building a culture where every student is seen and valued, he shows how purpose, trust, and consistency drive lasting success. Connect with Dr. Wayne Vickers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-vickers-79a619a9 Website: https://www.acsboe.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    24 min
  7. Leading With Purpose: A Conversation With Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross on Equity and Innovation

    Apr 10

    Leading With Purpose: A Conversation With Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross on Equity and Innovation

    In this episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross, Superintendent of Ypsilanti Community Schools, Michigan, and trailblazer in educational leadership. Together, they dive deep into the realities of mentoring future leaders, building intentional pathways for student and educator growth, and what it truly means to champion equity in education, especially as a Black woman leader. Listen in as Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross shares her journey in creating impactful mentorship and leadership programs, her innovative approach to integrating AI into schools, and how she navigates the pressures of political challenges while staying grounded in her core values. It’s an episode full of practical wisdom, candid conversations, and a celebration of the magic that women of color bring to the field of education. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, an advocate for equity, or curious about what it takes to drive meaningful change, this episode delivers valuable insights and motivation. Key Moments04:33 "Leadership Systems for Growth"07:03 "Leadership Program Boosts Retention"11:23 "Clarity in Mission Alignment"15:49 "AI's Impact on Education"19:23 "Teachers: The Magic Behind AI" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Hear how Dr. Alena Zachery-Ross is building a legacy of leadership through mentorship and intentional talent development. She shares how investing in rising leaders at every level is transforming staff growth, retention, and long-term impact. Learn how she stays grounded in mission and equity while navigating political pressure and complex district challenges. This episode highlights how clarity, communication, and strong values keep systems focused on what matters most. Gain insight into her forward-thinking approach to AI and innovation. From student-led AI ambassador programs to preparing learners for future careers, she shows how districts can lead with access, ethics, and opportunity.Connect with Dr. Alena Zachery-RossLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alenazacheryross/ Website: https://www.ycschools.us/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    23 min
  8. Mike Miles on Houston School Reform: Urgency, Outcomes, and Tackling the Tyranny of the 5 Percent

    Apr 10

    Mike Miles on Houston School Reform: Urgency, Outcomes, and Tackling the Tyranny of the 5 Percent

    In this episode, Iranetta Rayborn Wright sits down with Mike Miles, Superintendent of Houston ISD, for an unfiltered conversation about wholesale school reform and bold leadership in urban education. Mike Miles shares what he’s most proud of record-setting gains in student achievement, and explains why he believes incremental, piecemeal change has failed American education. Together, they dive into the nuts and bolts of the Houston ISD transformation: from building a new status quo bias to deploying the New Education System (NES), and how strong accountability, high expectations, and real-time feedback drive lasting results. Mike Miles addresses common criticisms, discusses lessons learned from Dallas ISD, and offers insight into the role of governance and the importance of working with urgency in today’s rapidly changing world. Tune in for a candid look at what it takes to reimagine schools for student success, and why outcomes, not just improvement, must be the bar for every child. Key Moments06:22 "Poverty, Mobility, Enrollment Trends"08:29 "Building Lasting Reform Systems"13:17 "Elected School Boards' Challenges"15:18 "The Tyranny of the 5%"19:07 "Exploring NES Classroom Model"24:43 Tracking Student Learning Effectively25:59 "DOL Insights and Remediation"30:29 "Feedback and Coaching Matters"32:19 "Urgency for Future Action" Why You’ll Love This Episode: Discover what it takes to lead one of the most ambitious school reform efforts in the country Mike Miles shares how bold, systemwide change—not incremental fixes—can dramatically improve student outcomes at scale Get a behind-the-scenes look at the NES model and how consistent, high-quality instruction, real-time feedback, and daily data tracking are transforming classrooms. This episode breaks down what effective teaching and learning actually look like in practice. Gain insight into leadership under pressure, from navigating criticism to driving change with urgency. If you care about results, accountability, and doing what’s best for students despite the noise, this conversation will challenge how you think about school transformation. Connect with Mike Miles LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fmikemiles Website: https://www.houstonisd.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937 Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/  Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

    33 min
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About

Welcome to "Stories from the Field: The Superintendent Podcast," where we explore education leadership with a focus on equity. Join us as we delve into inspiring narratives, challenges, and triumphs of diverse superintendents shaping the future of education. Each episode takes you to their districts, sharing unique stories and innovative strategies to ensure every student receives a quality education. Discover how they navigate challenges like achievement gaps, inclusivity, and cultural responsiveness in the evolving educational landscape.

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