Unlock 360

Wendy York Davoud
  • 5.0 (1)
  • TECHNOLOGY

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. S.4 | Ep. 20: Proximity, Culture, and Leadership with Deputy Superintendent Jonathan Eggerman

    14H AGO

    S.4 | Ep. 20: Proximity, Culture, and Leadership with Deputy Superintendent Jonathan Eggerman

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Jonathan Eggerman, Deputy Superintendent of Pine Tree ISD, to explore how proximity, relationships, and everyday leadership practices are fueling major growth across the district. Jonathan shares his path from Arkansas coach and principal to deputy superintendent in East Texas, and how Pine Tree ISD has built a culture where leaders stay close to classrooms, kids, and each other. From removing obstacles for teachers to celebrating wins as a district family, he describes how intentional, relational leadership can transform campus culture and academic outcomes. The conversation moves through real systems that make Pine Tree’s momentum possible, including teacher mentorship structures, leadership pipelines, and the district’s “rock star” framework for defining excellence. Jonathan also explains how Pine Tree maintains consistency as schools continue to grow, improve, and set higher goals each year. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome and introduction to Deputy Superintendent Jonathan Eggerman 01:07 Jonathan’s early career in Arkansas and entry into admin roles 02:38 Moving into principal and superintendent work in Texas 04:29 Transition to Pine Tree ISD and partnership with Superintendent Clugston 07:19 The district’s “culture of proximity” and daily campus visibility 11:19 Why relationships drive learning and community trust 12:23 Proactive leadership versus reactive systems 17:44 Building a district family through events, shared service, and support 19:47 “Hoist the Colors” and districtwide community-building traditions 26:43 Pine Tree’s recent academic and extracurricular growth 31:38 Letting great teachers teach and removing barriers 33:24 Anchor Academy, Leadership Cubed, and mentoring structures Why You Will Love This Episode You will hear a candid, practical look at how Pine Tree ISD built a healthy, high-trust culture that supports both academic results and human connection. Jonathan offers insights leaders can apply immediately, from sustaining momentum after big gains to designing support systems that help teachers thrive. Connect with Jonathan EggermanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-eggerman-052989244/  Website: https://ptisd.org  Follow Us Wendy 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.

    56 min
  2. S.4 | Ep. 19: WIN Time, GRIT, and High School Culture with Principal Harley Webb

    2D AGO

    S.4 | Ep. 19: WIN Time, GRIT, and High School Culture with Principal Harley Webb

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud talks with Principal Harley Webb of Bridge Creek High School in Bridge Creek Public Schools, Oklahoma. Harley shares her journey from Texas small town and college softball to high school principal, and how one student who could not read shifted her sense of responsibility as a leader. Wendy and Harley explore how Bridge Creek is tackling post pandemic learning gaps, strengthening PLCs with singleton teachers, and using WIN time and a four-day school week to support students. They also dig into the district’s GRIT vision, BCHS’s campus vision, and the culture shifts that came from removing cell phones so students could relearn how to talk, disagree, and connect. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome and introduction to Principal Harley Webb 00:55 From Texas small town and college softball to teaching 02:27 The student who could not read and her call to leadership 03:55 Mentors, deployment, and the path to assistant principal 05:06 Becoming principal at Bridge Creek High School 05:29 A small high school with a strong, inclusive student culture 07:07 Changing the public narrative about Oklahoma public education 09:05 District GRIT vision and the BCHS campus vision 10:47 Sending teachers to Model Schools and building PK–12 collaboration 13:08 Naming post pandemic learning gaps in reading and math 17:42 Using WIN time and PLCs to target skills like multiplication facts 19:33 Four-day school week, student work, and academic achievement 33:03 No cell phones, louder lunchrooms, and stronger student discourse Why You’ll Love This Episode This conversation offers a practical look at how a small high school can respond creatively to big challenges. Harley shares concrete strategies for supporting students when every teacher is a singleton, designing WIN time that actually works, and adjusting systems quickly instead of waiting a whole semester. You will appreciate her honesty about shifting schedules three times in one semester, inviting student and teacher voice into design, and focusing on relationships, rigor, and relevance in every classroom. Her story shows that even in a four-day week, schools can build strong culture, close learning gaps, and help students become confident communicators. Connect with Harley WebbLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harley-webb-7298b6197/ Website: https://www.bridgecreekbobcats.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.

    40 min
  3. S.4 | Ep. 18: Clarity, Curriculum, and Tier 1 Excellence with Dr. NaTasha Crain

    4D AGO

    S.4 | Ep. 18: Clarity, Curriculum, and Tier 1 Excellence with Dr. NaTasha Crain

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud talks with Dr. NaTasha Crain, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction at Marshall Independent School District. Dr. Crain shares her path from alt-cert English teacher to award-winning principal to district leader — and how her East Texas roots continue to shape her work. Wendy and Dr. Crain dig into what it takes to redesign curriculum, strengthen Tier 1 instruction, support new teachers, and build shared belief across a district. You’ll hear how Marshall ISD is using data, clarity, and communication to lift student achievement and move multiple campuses out of improvement status. Key Moments 00:55 Alt-cert entry into teaching and early English classroom experience 03:21 Moving from curriculum work into campus administration 03:58 Becoming an elementary principal and building culture and systems 04:32 Earning her doctorate while leading Jones Elementary 05:45 Visit from Marshall ISD and transition into district leadership 06:16 TABSE Principal of the Year and community-focused service 13:43 Redesigning curriculum with shared leadership and principal voice 15:53 Supporting early-career and alt-cert teachers across the district 21:20 Choosing Tier 1 instruction as the anchor for improvement 23:24 Defining explicit teaching and daily checks for understanding 24:39 Adopting Bluebonnet Math and iReady to target growth and intervention 33:41 Using the Clarity Framework to strengthen communication and expectations Why You’ll Love This Episode This conversation offers a blueprint for leaders working to rebuild instructional coherence, strengthen Tier 1 teaching, and support teachers with clarity and purpose. Dr. Crain shares how shared leadership, transparent communication, and intentional curriculum work can lift a district — even when campuses start far behind. Her story is rooted in service, community, and deep belief in what students can do. You’ll walk away inspired and equipped with practical insights you can apply immediately. Connect with Dr. NaTasha Crain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-natasha-crain-337575b5/ Website: https://marshallisd.com Follow Us Wendy 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.

    48 min
  4. S.4 | Ep. 17: Tugboats, Grading for Equity, and Teacher Leadership with Dr. Katie Jarnot

    DEC 10

    S.4 | Ep. 17: Tugboats, Grading for Equity, and Teacher Leadership with Dr. Katie Jarnot

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud talks with Dr. Katie Jarnot, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Eagle County School District. She shares how her team is guiding the district through change, navigating the recovery from Covid, and strengthening systems that support equitable learning for all students. Wendy and Dr. Jarnot explore the district’s shift toward standards based grading, the role of teacher leaders as instructional coaches, and how a tugboat mindset can steady a district during both rapid change and long-term improvement. Key Moments 01:17 Growing up in Eagle County and returning as a leader 03:03 Early student teaching challenges that shaped her path 09:58 How substitute teaching helped her rediscover education 13:23 Moving into administration and seeing principals as “producers” 15:28 Why she loves middle school learners and supporting them 19:23 Transitioning away from TAP and pay for performance 24:23 Navigating shifting leadership and districtwide change 27:55 How Covid disrupted systems, behavior, and learning 28:57 Beginning the standards based grading journey 31:44 Addressing parent concerns through college admissions voices 38:01 Student benefits, revision culture, and growth data 40:04 How the teacher leader model supports instructional improvement Why You’ll Love This Episode This conversation offers a grounded look at how a district can rebuild coherence and trust after years of disruption. Dr. Jarnot shares honest lessons about grading reform, teacher leadership, and focusing on what matters most for students. Her story provides practical guidance for leaders working to strengthen alignment, support teachers, and reduce initiative overload. Connect with Dr. Katie Jarnot LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-jarnot-19735b55/ Website: https://www.eagleschools.net Follow Us Wendy 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, and one breakthrough at a time.

    54 min
  5. S.4 | Ep. 16: Rethinking Success – Carrie Reed on Growth, Community Voice, and True Readiness

    DEC 8

    S.4 | Ep. 16: Rethinking Success – Carrie Reed on Growth, Community Voice, and True Readiness

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy R. York Davoud sits down with Carrie Reed, Deputy Superintendent of Splendora ISD in Texas. Carrie’s story moves from fourth-grade classroom teacher to principal, to briefly leaving public education entirely, and then returning with a renewed sense of purpose — now serving as deputy superintendent in the district where she once graduated and taught. From opening a brand-new elementary school in the middle of the pandemic to reshaping Splendora’s strategic direction and community-based accountability system, Carrie shares how growth for every student, deep relationships, and authentic community voice guide the district’s work. Key Moments 10:40 Why Carrie once took out TRS and said she was done with public education 20:18 Connecting growth measures, MAP, and accountability in a practical way 20:58 Implementing new curriculum, including Bluebonnet Math, with fidelity 27:17 Teacher collaboration structures: PLCs and dedicated lesson design time 27:52 Using internalization documents and shared planning to lift all classrooms 36:06 What makes Splendora ISD a special place for students and families 36:35 Carrie’s recruitment pitch from the restaurant table to the classroom 37:38 Gratitude: why she’s thankful for both family and opportunity Why You’ll Love This EpisodeCarrie brings honesty, warmth, and a deeply grounded perspective on what it means to lead at the district level and still see herself as a fourth-grade teacher at heart.This episode offers a powerful look at how one district is aligning systems, people, and heart so that every learner is better prepared for life after graduation. Connect with Carrie ReedLinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-reedWebsite: https://www.splendoraisd.org/  Follow Us:Wendy R. York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead 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’re 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 episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.

    39 min
  6. S.4 | Ep. 15: Rethinking Operations – Dr. Julie Williams on Equity, Wellbeing, & Sustainable Systems

    DEC 5

    S.4 | Ep. 15: Rethinking Operations – Dr. Julie Williams on Equity, Wellbeing, & Sustainable Systems

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud talks with Dr. Julie Williams, Deputy Superintendent of Fayetteville Public Schools. With 36 years in education from rural Missouri to a region anchored by Fortune 500 companies, Dr. Williams shares how operational decisions can dramatically enhance equity, safety, sustainability, and student wellbeing. From redesigning restrooms to eliminate bullying, to shifting cell phone culture, to replacing millions of milk cartons with bulk milk and composting, she shows how “behind-the-scenes” systems truly shape student experience. Key Moments 02:00 From rural Missouri to deputy superintendent in Fayetteville 04:10 Why she “retired” one day and started a new role the next 06:40 Charter buses vs. school buses and surprising cost efficiencies 09:10 Bus driver shortages and new staff incentives 12:10 A new appreciation for the workload of coaches 13:35 Cell phone limits and their impact on student wellbeing 16:30 Major decline in discipline issues after policy changes 18:45 Bathroom redesigns that eliminate hiding, vaping, and bullying 24:20 Balancing online testing with screen-time guidelines 27:25 Addressing equity through playground updates and feeder patterns 32:20 Sustainability efforts including outdoor learning and LEED/site/well standards 34:00 Bulk milk and composting as a cheaper, greener solution Why You’ll Love This Episode Dr. Williams shares simple, practical ways operations can strengthen school culture and student safety from limiting cell phone use to redesigning restrooms and rethinking staff expectations. Her perspective shows how small shifts in systems can create big improvements for students. You’ll also hear how Fayetteville Public Schools is advancing equity and sustainability through clear, tangible actions that benefit every campus. It’s a concise look at how thoughtful operational choices make daily life better for kids and adults alike. Connect with Dr. Julie Williams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjulierwilliams  Website: https://www.fayar.net/  Follow Us Wendy 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’re 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 episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.

    41 min
  7. S.4 | Ep 14: Building Strong Instruction, Culture, and Consistency — Harrison Gillaspy

    DEC 3

    S.4 | Ep 14: Building Strong Instruction, Culture, and Consistency — Harrison Gillaspy

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy R. York Davoud sits down with Harrison Gillaspy, Principal of Piney Woods Elementary School in Splendora ISD. Harrison’s leadership journey moved quickly to four schools in one year giving him a unique, on-the-ground understanding of how systems, culture, and clarity impact student learning. Now in his second year as principal, he shares how Piney Woods is strengthening instruction, building alignment, and ensuring every student grows. From lesson design days to student goal-setting, from culture-building to consistent expectations, Harrison offers a grounded look at what it takes to accelerate improvement while caring deeply for the humans doing the work. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome + Harrison’s whirlwind path to principalship 01:17 From coaching to the classroom — and into leadership 06:18 Remembering year one — blur, strength, and support 17:22 Understanding the school’s data journey 19:08 Refocusing from “bubble kids” to every student’s growth 21:37 Rebuilding grade-level teams for balance and collaboration 22:26 Culture: trust, transparency, and treating teachers as professionals 24:07 Rotating awards that celebrate staff strengths 25:11 The next step: consistency through every season 26:19 “Shocktober” and staying steady during tough months 27:22 How the district calendar supports rest and effectiveness 29:17 Where to learn more about Piney Woods and Splendora ISD Why You’ll Love This Episode Harrison brings humility, clarity, and practical insight from a fast-paced leadership journey. You’ll hear how Piney Woods Elementary is: Strengthening instruction through intentional lesson design Empowering students to understand and track their own progress Building teacher trust and collaboration Improving culture through transparency and meaningful recognition Staying aligned with district expectations while honoring teacher voice This episode offers a refreshingly honest look at leading a campus through growth, reset, and renewed momentum.Connect with Harrison GillaspyLinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrison-gillaspy-0a3201247Website: https://pineywoods.splendoraisd.org/ Follow Us:Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead 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’re 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 episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.

    30 min
  8. S.4 | Ep 13: Leading with Joy, Clarity, and High Expectations — Eric Holt

    DEC 1

    S.4 | Ep 13: Leading with Joy, Clarity, and High Expectations — Eric Holt

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy R. York Davoud sits down with Eric Holt, Principal of Lago Vista Middle School in Texas. With experience as a teacher, coach, AP, and now long-serving principal, Eric shares how clarity, consistency, and culture shape the middle school experience for every learner. From simplifying instructional expectations to balancing grace with high standards, Eric offers a grounded and energetic look at what it means to serve every student with both compassion and accountability. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome + Eric Holt’s path from radio to education 01:17 Lessons from youth baseball and the power of great coaching 02:55 Moving from high school AP to elementary AP 07:14 Why separating grade levels matters 08:22 Eric’s passion for the Fundamental Five 10:03 Avoiding the “initiative of the year” cycle 12:34 When too much grace leads to apathy 20:57 Helping students set goals with MAP data 21:48 Building a consistent assess–analyze–intervene cycle 22:08 Creating a joyful middle school culture 30:32 Ensuring every student has a trusted adult 33:09 The sacred trust between families and schools Why You’ll Love This Episode Eric brings warmth, humor, and practical leadership insight. You will hear how Lago Vista Middle School is strengthening instruction, building joyful culture, balancing grace with accountability, and ensuring every student has someone who knows them and champions them. His stories from coaching and teaching to DJing school dances offer a refreshing and relatable look at leading a middle school with heart.Connect with Eric HoltLinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-holt-b2711443Website: https://www.lagovistaisd.net/o/lvms Follow Us:Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead 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’re 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 episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.

    34 min
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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.

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  • Creator
    Wendy York Davoud
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Wendy York Davoud
  • Show Website
    Unlock 360