Unlock 360

Wendy York Davoud
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Welcome to Unlock 360 Podcast, where each episode unpacks the practices, partnerships, and people behind measurable gains in student outcomes. From building collaborative leadership cultures to designing equity-driven systems, you'll hear what happens when clarity, coherence, and coaching align. Whether you're a superintendent, campus leader, or classroom educator, Unlock 360 offers fresh insights, practical strategies, and an honest look at what it takes to create lasting impact. New episodes released biweekly.

  1. 1d ago

    S.5 | Ep. 16: Creating Coherent Systems That Help Every Student Thrive with Dr. Sean Feeney

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Sean Feeney, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment at Port Washington Union Free School District in New York. Drawing from experiences as a Peace Corps volunteer, mathematics educator, high school principal, and district leader, Sean shares how his unique journey has shaped his belief that strong instructional systems and collaborative leadership create better outcomes for every learner.Sean discusses Port Washington's thoughtful approach to curriculum improvement, highlighting how meaningful teacher involvement, sustained professional learning, and shared ownership have transformed the district's work in mathematics and literacy. Rather than treating initiatives as separate projects, he explains how the district is building coherent systems that ensure every student receives the support they need. The conversation also explores instructional coaching, small-group learning, conceptual understanding in mathematics, professional collaboration, and the importance of creating systems that outlast individual leaders. Sean shares practical leadership insights on building trust, communicating vision, and sustaining meaningful instructional improvement through collective ownership. Key Moments 00:18 Sean's Journey into Education 06:29 Building a Collaborative District Culture 08:39 Teacher Voice in Curriculum Decisions 12:52 Shifting Mathematics Instruction 15:52 Building Deep Mathematical Understanding 18:43 Creating a Shared District Vision 21:11 Turning Vision into Systems 24:01 Professional Learning That Lasts 27:24 Instructional Coaching for Teachers 28:57 Community Support for Innovation 29:49 Leading Through Transparency 30:35 Educators Who Shaped Sean's Journey Why You'll Love This Episode Sean shares valuable insights on leading instructional improvement through collaboration, coherent systems, and teacher ownership. His thoughtful approach to curriculum, professional learning, and sustainable leadership offers practical strategies for district and school leaders working to improve teaching and learning while building lasting organizational capacity. Connect with Dr. Sean FeeneyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-feeney-8625747a Website: https://www.portnet.org/ Email: sfeeney@portnet.org Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360°, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  2. 3d ago

    S.5 | Ep. 15: Eric Foister on building a High Expectations Culture and Lasting Achievement

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Eric Foister, Superintendent of West Memphis School District in Arkansas. Drawing on his experience as a teacher, basketball coach, principal, assistant superintendent, and now district leader, Eric shares how strong relationships, instructional leadership, and a clear vision have fueled rapid districtwide improvement.Eric discusses the transformation underway in West Memphis Schools, where a renewed focus on instructional systems, leadership development, and teacher support has already produced significant academic gains. He explains how the district's 'Power of Ten' initiative united educators around a shared, attainable goal while building collective teacher efficacy and creating momentum for sustained success. The conversation also explores developing instructional leaders, creating meaningful accountability, leveraging artificial intelligence to support educators, and preparing students for future careers through innovative partnerships with Google. Eric offers practical leadership lessons on building effective teams, embracing change, and creating systems where both educators and students can thrive. Key Moments 00:30 Eric's Journey into Education 03:52 Coaching Principles That Shape Leadership 06:37 Transforming West Memphis Schools 09:02 The Power of Ten Initiative 12:30 Leading Change Through Stability 15:51 Building Instructional Leaders 19:31 Leadership Through Real-World Scenarios 23:39 Creating Buy-In Around Student Growth 25:16 Merit-Based Teacher Incentives 29:49 The Future of West Memphis Schools 36:44 Using AI to Support Teachers 39:15 Preparing Students for AI Careers 43:54 A Father's Lasting Influence Why You'll Love This Episode Eric shares practical strategies for accelerating district improvement through instructional leadership, clear accountability, and strong teacher support. His insights on creating collective efficacy, developing future leaders, embracing AI, and preparing students for tomorrow's workforce offer valuable takeaways for superintendents, principals, and district leaders working to drive lasting school improvement. Connect with Eric FoisterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-foister-b959572a Website: https://www.wmsd.net/ Email: efoister@wmsd.net Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360°, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  3. Jul 24

    S.5 | Ep. 14: Transforming Literacy Through Strong Instruction and Teacher Capacity

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Eboni Massey, Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Petersburg City Public Schools in Virginia. With nearly three decades of experience spanning classroom teaching, instructional coaching, literacy leadership, and district administration, Eboni shares her passion for building educator capacity and ensuring every student receives a high-quality education. Eboni discusses Petersburg's ambitious literacy transformation, driven by the Virginia Literacy Act and the adoption of high-quality instructional materials aligned to the science of reading. She explains how the district is strengthening teacher practice through coherent instructional systems, professional learning, and intentional coaching while addressing the unique challenges of recruiting, supporting, and retaining educators. The conversation also explores the importance of instructional frameworks, collective teacher efficacy, leadership development, and creating consistent learning experiences across every classroom. Using memorable analogies and practical examples, Eboni shares how Petersburg is building sustainable systems that accelerate student achievement while empowering teachers to bring their own strengths and creativity to instruction. Key Moments 00:28 Eboni's Journey into Education 05:01 Building Capacity Through Leadership 05:50 Leading Curriculum and Instruction 07:43 Transforming Literacy Across the District 10:18 Addressing Teacher Preparation Challenges 14:02 Changing Perceptions About Petersburg 17:46 Building a Coherent Instructional Framework 19:58 High-Quality Instructional Materials 20:44 The Electric Slide Approach to Teaching 23:33 Moving from 'What Works' to 'What Works Best' 26:39 Developing Strong Instructional Leaders 29:40 Leaders Who Shaped Eboni's Journey Why You'll Love This Episode Eboni shares practical insights on leading districtwide instructional improvement, supporting teachers through change, and building systems that create equitable learning opportunities for every student. Her passion for coaching, literacy, and sustainable leadership offers valuable lessons for district and school leaders alike. Connect with Eboni MasseyWebsite: https://www.petersburg.k12.va.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eboni-massey Email: ebmassey@petersburg.k12.va.us  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/  About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360°, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  4. Jul 22

    S.5 | Ep. 13: Creating Future-Ready Learners Through Innovation, Career Exploration, and Student Choice

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Katy Nagaj, Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation for Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools in Ohio. With a career spanning classroom teaching, instructional leadership, and district administration, Katy shares how her passion for education has evolved into leading innovative learning experiences that prepare students for an ever-changing future.Katy discusses how Willoughby-Eastlake is transforming student learning through its Portrait of a Graduate framework, districtwide career exploration initiatives, and a commitment to creating meaningful, student-centered experiences. She explains how career awareness begins in the elementary grades, expands through middle school exploration, and culminates in high school pathways that help students discover their passions while preparing them for college, careers, and life. The conversation also explores leading instructional change through the Science of Reading, supporting educators with intentional professional learning, and fostering a culture where innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement thrive. Katy shares practical insights into building systems that empower both students and teachers while keeping future readiness at the center of every decision. Key Moments 00:29 Katy's Journey into Education 03:41 Leading Curriculum and Innovation 06:18 Building a Portrait of a Graduate 09:52 Career Exploration Starts Early 13:17 Creating Student-Centered Learning 16:42 Leading the Science of Reading 20:08 Supporting Teachers Through Change 23:41 Innovation Through Collaboration 27:04 Preparing Students for the Future 30:33 Advice for District Leaders 33:28 The Power of Student Voice 36:12 Leaders Who Inspired Katy Why You'll Love This Episode Katy shares practical strategies for preparing students for life beyond graduation by combining innovative instructional practices, career-connected learning, and strong leadership systems. Her insights into supporting educators through change, building future-ready schools, and creating meaningful learning experiences offer valuable takeaways for district and school leaders alike. Connect with Katy NagajLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-nagaj-133005269 Website: https://www.weschools.org/ Email: katy.nagaj@weschools.org Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360°, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  5. Jul 13

    S.5 | Ep. 12: Building Coherent Systems for Every Learner with Tammi Chandler and Julie Faneuf

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Tammi Chandler, Mathematics Curriculum Director, and Julie Faneuf, English Language Arts Curriculum Director at Fitchburg Public Schools, to explore how strong collaboration across content areas is creating more coherent learning experiences for every student. Together, they share how literacy and mathematics leaders can break down silos, align instructional practices, and ensure every decision remains centered on student learning. Tammi and Julie discuss Fitchburg's commitment to the belief that 'all means all,' highlighting the district's strategic focus on equitable access to high-quality instruction, collaborative professional learning communities, and instructional leadership teams. They explain how intentional planning, analyzing student work, and using evidence from classroom observations help teachers continuously refine instruction and improve outcomes for diverse learners. The conversation also explores teacher clarity, reasoning across disciplines, curriculum implementation, and the importance of maintaining focus amid competing initiatives. By emphasizing coherence, collective efficacy, and ongoing collaboration, Tammi and Julie offer practical insights for district leaders working to strengthen teaching and learning across every classroom. Key Moments02:03 Connecting Literacy and Mathematics 03:42 What 'All Means All' Looks Like 06:18 Building a Collaborative PLC Culture 10:08 Inside Fitchburg's PLC Cycle 14:02 Analyzing Student Work Deeply 17:37 Using Video to Improve Instruction 21:03 The Role of Instructional Leadership Teams 22:18 Districtwide Focus on Student Reasoning 25:13 Challenges of Sustaining Improvement 27:14 Avoiding the 'Shiny New Initiative' 28:07 Less Is More for Lasting Change 29:16 Supporting New Teachers Through PLCs 30:37 Why Fitchburg Is a Great Place to Teach 31:33 Leadership Lessons from Trusted Mentors Why You'll Love This EpisodeTammi and Julie provide a thoughtful look at how district leaders can create coherent instructional systems that support teachers and improve student outcomes. Their practical strategies for collaboration, curriculum implementation, professional learning, and continuous improvement offer valuable takeaways for leaders committed to ensuring success for every learner. Connect with Tammi ChandlerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammi-chandler-a4778a63 Website: https://www.fitchburg.k12.ma.us/home Email: chandlert@fitchburg.k12.ma.us Connect with Julie Faneuf:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-f-b315613/Website: https://www.fitchburg.k12.ma.us/home Email: faneufj@fitchburg.k12.ma.us Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360°, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  6. Jul 10

    S.5 | Ep. 11: Leading with Belonging, Student Voice, and Community Connection with Ana Aleman-Putman

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Ana Aleman-Putman, Superintendent of South Haven Public Schools, to discuss her full-circle journey from student in the district to leading it as superintendent. Growing up in a migrant worker family with 14 siblings, Ana shares how education transformed her family's future and why her parents' belief in the power of learning continues to shape her leadership today.Ana reflects on her first year leading South Haven Public Schools, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the community, listening to students, and building relationships across the district. She discusses the district's strategic planning process, the role of student voice in shaping the future, and why creating a sense of belonging for every student remains a central priority. The conversation also explores leadership development, teacher clarity, collective efficacy, curriculum implementation, and the importance of fostering healthy professional dialogue through cognitive dissonance. Ana shares how South Haven is strengthening instructional systems while remaining focused on supporting teachers, improving student outcomes, and ensuring every learner feels connected and valued. Key Moments 00:45 Ana's Full-Circle Journey to Superintendent 01:52 How Education Changed Her Family's Future 03:41 Reconnecting with the South Haven Community 06:06 Building a New Strategic Plan 07:22 Student Agency and Student Voice 08:07 Creating a Sense of Belonging for Every Student 09:48 Leadership Teams Across the District 10:33 Strengthening MTSS Systems 12:18 Why Cognitive Dissonance Matters 14:51 Teacher Clarity and Collective Efficacy 16:42 Progress Over Perfection 18:01 Challenges with Teacher Housing and Retention 20:12 Addressing Resource Gaps in a Rural Community 21:26 Focusing on Curriculum Implementation 23:31 Supporting Teachers Through Professional Learning 24:26 Thriving Clubs and Student Opportunities 25:45 Ensuring Every Student Feels They Belong 26:14 Honoring a Teacher Who Made a Lasting Impact Why You'll Love This Episode Ana shares an authentic and inspiring leadership story rooted in service, community, and opportunity. Her focus on student voice, belonging, collaborative leadership, and instructional improvement offers valuable lessons for education leaders working to create schools where every student can thrive. Connect with Ana Aleman-Putman Website: https://www.shps.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-aleman-putman-789a6b27a Email: aaleman-putman@shps.org Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

  7. Jun 29

    S.5 | Ep. 10: Creating Your Luck Through Leadership, Literacy, and Learning with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh, Superintendent of Jacksonville North Pulaski School District, to explore how strong leadership, continuous improvement, and a relentless focus on students are driving success across his district. Drawing from a career that spans classroom teaching, school leadership, state-level education leadership, and district administration, Dr. Owoh shares how his experiences have shaped his approach to building a learning organization where students, educators, and staff are constantly growing. He discusses the district’s ABC framework—Academics, Behavior, and Culture—and explains why kindness, student voice, and equitable opportunities are essential ingredients for improving outcomes. The conversation also dives into Jacksonville North Pulaski’s cycle of inquiry process, the importance of listening to students when making instructional decisions, and how the district uses data and feedback to continuously refine programs and interventions. Dr. Owoh highlights innovative literacy initiatives that extend learning beyond the classroom, including community partnerships that bring books into local businesses and public spaces. Key Moments05:10 Focusing on Academic and Behavior Basics 09:30 Fostering equity through community input 14:01 Issues with previous math program 16:47 Using action research in education 20:38 District leadership and student evaluations 23:30 Launching the Jacksonville Reads Program 28:59 Influential English teachers 32:08 Curriculum and Leadership Resources Why You’ll Love This EpisodeDr. Owoh offers a thoughtful and practical perspective on educational leadership, showing how student voice, continuous improvement, and a culture of learning can transform outcomes. His stories about literacy, leadership, and listening to students provide valuable lessons for educators at every level. Connect with Dr. Jeremy S. OwohWebsite: https://www.jnpsd.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-s-owoh-ed-d-9428b710 Email: jowoh@jnpsd.org  Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

    S.5 | Ep. 10: Creating Your Luck Through Leadership, Literacy, and Learning with Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh

  8. May 29

    S.5 | Ep. 9: Investing in People and Building Sustainable Leadership with Chris Calabrese

    Welcome to Season 5 of the Unlock 360 podcast by Lead.Teach.Learn.360! In this episode, Wendy York Davoud is joined by Chris Calabrese, Superintendent of Benicia Unified School District, for a conversation about leadership development, district sustainability, and the power of investing in people. Chris shares the unexpected story that led him into education and the personal motto that has guided his entire career: “Invest in people’s lives instead of their money.” From teacher to superintendent, Chris reflects on his K–12 leadership journey and how developing leaders remains one of the most meaningful parts of his work today. The conversation explores the realities of leading a district through change, including leadership transitions, declining enrollment, financial pressures, and the challenge of maintaining strong academic outcomes while supporting students socially and emotionally. Chris also discusses the importance of helping leaders think long term, creating sustainable systems, and balancing district-wide coherence with school-level autonomy. Listeners will also hear how Benicia Unified is working to strengthen collaboration, close achievement gaps, and preserve the unique culture that makes the Benicia community special. Key Moments02:52 Investing in People Instead of Positions 05:32 Supporting New Leaders Through Transition 06:47 Building Sustainable Long-Term Systems 07:22 Self-Awareness and Leadership Growth 09:37 Using 100-Day Plans for Leadership Success 13:25 Learning the Culture of Benicia Unified 16:11 Addressing Enrollment and Budget Challenges 17:45 Attracting Families Through Student Opportunities 18:13 Extracurriculars Strengthen School Culture 20:09 What Makes the Benicia Community Special 22:19 Balancing District Alignment and School Autonomy 26:55 Closing Achievement Gaps Through Collaboration 29:07 Expanding Academic Intervention Supports Why You Will Love This EpisodeThis episode offers an honest look at what it takes to lead with purpose during times of transition and uncertainty. Chris shares thoughtful insight on leadership development, strategic thinking, and creating sustainable systems that support both students and educators. District and school leaders alike will walk away with practical ideas around collaboration, culture, and long-term planning. Connect with Chris CalabreseWebsite: https://beniciaunified.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-calabrese-b46079268 Email: ccalabrese@beniciaunified.org Follow UsWendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead.Teach.Learn.360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead.Teach.Learn.360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they are turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead.Teach.Learn.360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement, one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this conversation? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more.

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About

Welcome to Unlock 360 Podcast, where each episode unpacks the practices, partnerships, and people behind measurable gains in student outcomes. From building collaborative leadership cultures to designing equity-driven systems, you'll hear what happens when clarity, coherence, and coaching align. Whether you're a superintendent, campus leader, or classroom educator, Unlock 360 offers fresh insights, practical strategies, and an honest look at what it takes to create lasting impact. New episodes released biweekly.

Information

  • Creator
    Wendy York Davoud
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wendy York Davoud
  • Show Website
    Unlock 360