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. 3d ago

    S.5 | Ep. 23: Turning Teacher Voice Into Student Success with Jaym S Abraham

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Jaym S Abraham, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for Harper Creek Community Schools in Michigan. Jaym reflects on his journey from high school teacher and coach to building principal and district leader, sharing how each role strengthened his belief that education is fundamentally a relationship business.Jaym explores how Harper Creek is creating stronger systems around professional learning, PBIS, PLCs, and tiered student support. He explains why districts must give educators the time and structures needed to collaborate, use data, and respond to student needs. From teacher-led professional development to intentional intervention schedules and a districtwide curriculum council, Jaym shares how empowering educators can turn existing expertise into meaningful improvement. The conversation also highlights Jaym's experience leading successful school turnarounds and the lessons those experiences taught him about culture, accountability, and collective ownership. He shares how one school moved from roughly 11 to 12 percent proficiency to 57 percent in a single year with the same staff, and how another became a top-performing middle school in Michigan. Throughout the episode, Jaym emphasizes keeping improvement focused, building reflection into the system, and creating environments where educators have both a voice and responsibility for results. Key Moments 00:41 Jaym's Journey into Education 03:02 Stepping Into District Leadership 04:52 Avoiding Initiative Fatigue 06:35 Teacher-Led Professional Learning 07:49 Building Collaboration Into the Schedule 10:46 Schedules Reflect District Priorities 12:36 Creating Districtwide Leadership Structures 14:34 Empowering Educators Through Voice 15:49 Turning Around an Elementary School 18:17 Sustaining School Improvement 20:43 Building High-Performing Leadership Teams 22:27 Creating Internal Accountability 24:45 Making Reflection Unavoidable 26:53 The Culture of Harper Creek 30:31 Leaders Who Shaped Jaym's Journey Why You'll Love This Episode Jaym offers a practical look at how strong systems, collaborative teams, and educator voice can drive meaningful school improvement. His experiences demonstrate that transformation does not always require another new program. Sometimes the most powerful change comes from giving educators the right structures, time, trust, and accountability to work together around the needs of every student. Connect with Jaym S Abraham Website: https://www.harpercreek.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaym-abraham-463a3238 Email: abrahamj@harpercreek.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.

  2. 6d ago

    S.5 | Ep. 22: Collaborative Culture and Future-Ready Learning with Superintendent Dave Moyer

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Dave Moyer, Superintendent of Northport-East Northport Union Free School District in New York. Drawing on more than 17 years of superintendent experience across three states, Dave shares the leadership lessons he's learned while guiding school systems through change, building trust, and creating collaborative cultures that keep students at the center of every decision.Dave reflects on stepping into a district navigating significant financial and community challenges following the pandemic. He explains how strengthening communication, investing in leadership development, and creating shared understanding helped move the district from uncertainty toward a more unified vision for the future. The conversation explores professional learning communities, instructional leadership, change management, future-focused learning, and the importance of building leadership capacity at every level of the organization. Dave also shares his perspective on preserving opportunities for students while responding to declining enrollment, and why strong systems--not individual heroes--create lasting success for schools. Key Moments 00:42 Dave's Journey into Educational Leadership 02:38 Why Public Education Matters 06:23 Lessons from Leading Across Three States 09:34 Entering a District During Change 14:56 Building Trust Through Leadership 18:34 Creating Strong Professional Learning Communities 21:01 Personalizing Learning for Every Student 23:03 Responding to Declining Enrollment 26:16 Developing Leadership Capacity 28:58 Why Collaboration Matters More Than Ever 29:52 Celebrating Student Success Beyond Test Scores 31:11 Honoring Influential Mentors Why You'll Love This Episode Dr. Moyer shares practical leadership strategies for building trust, strengthening instructional leadership, and creating collaborative systems that improve outcomes for every student. His thoughtful perspective on leading through change, preparing schools for the future, and empowering educators offers valuable insights for superintendents, principals, and district leaders alike. Connect with Dr. Dave MoyerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-moyer-88716a17 Website: https://www.northport.k12.ny.us/ Email: david.moyer@northport.k12.ny.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.

  3. Aug 12

    S.5 | Ep. 21: How Strong School Communities Shape Lifelong Learners with Dr. Joseph S. Piccirillo

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Joseph S. Piccirillo, Superintendent of Newton Public Schools in New Jersey. Beginning his career as a high school music and theater teacher, Joseph shares how creativity, curiosity, and a passion for lifelong learning have shaped his approach to educational leadership and his vision for serving every student with dignity and purpose.Joseph reflects on leading Newton Public Schools through the continued recovery from the pandemic while strengthening academics, investing in facilities, expanding student opportunities, and building stronger connections across the community. He explains how strategic investments in school environments, communication, and partnerships have helped foster greater pride among students, families, and the broader Newton community. The conversation also explores leadership rooted in mission and values, preparing students for an AI-driven future, developing character alongside academic excellence, and honoring the unique strengths of every learner. Joseph shares thoughtful insights on why schools should focus as much on developing good people as they do on preparing successful graduates. Key Moments 01:29 How Music Shaped His Leadership 02:36 Inspiring Lifelong Curiosity 07:17 Leading Through Pandemic Recovery 10:10 Investing in Schools and Community Pride 14:08 Expanding College and Career Opportunities 18:33 Building a Mission-Driven District 22:57 Developing Leaders Through Character 27:46 Preparing Students for an AI Future 29:11 Why Character Matters More Than Ever 32:16 Sharing the Newton Story 33:15 The Lesson That Changed Joseph's Leadership Why You'll Love This Episode Dr. Piccirillo offers a thoughtful perspective on educational leadership that balances academic excellence with character development, community pride, and lifelong curiosity. His reflections on mission-driven leadership, preparing students for an evolving world, and recognizing the dignity of every learner provide valuable inspiration for educators and school leaders alike. Connect with Dr. Joseph S. PiccirilloLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-joseph-s-piccirillo-38571238 Website: https://www.newtonnj.org/ Email: jpiccirillo@newtonnj.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.

  4. Aug 10

    S.5 | Ep. 20: Building Belonging, Student Voice, and Stronger Schools with Dr. Michelle Kuss-Cybula

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Michelle Kuss-Cybula, Superintendent of Oak Harbor Public Schools in Washington. With more than 35 years in public education and leadership experience across multiple states, Michelle shares how listening deeply to students, families, and the community has shaped a unified vision for one of Washington's unique military-connected school districts.Michelle reflects on her own educational journey, including the counselor who told her she wasn't 'college material' and the teachers and mentors who inspired her to prove otherwise. She explains how those experiences continue to fuel her commitment to ensuring every student feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving their goals. The conversation explores Oak Harbor's 'One Oak Harbor' philosophy, the power of student voice in strategic planning, creating a strong sense of belonging for highly mobile military families, and building coherent instructional systems that strengthen both academic achievement and community partnerships. Michelle also shares practical leadership lessons on listening first, leading with purpose, and designing schools around the student experience. Key Moments 00:54 Michelle's Journey into Education 04:02 The Counselor Who Changed Her Path 09:48 Listening Before Leading 11:06 Creating a Community-Driven Strategic Plan 14:33 Measuring Progress Beyond the Plan 15:53 Balancing Belonging and Academic Rigor 17:33 Building Collaborative Learning Systems 19:37 Leadership Lessons Across States 22:23 Learning Through Student Voice 25:28 The One Oak Harbor Experience 27:58 Sharing Alumni Success Stories 29:12 A Tribute to Mrs. Dana Why You'll Love This Episode Dr. Kuss-Cybula shares inspiring leadership lessons on building community trust, elevating student voice, and creating school systems where every student feels they belong while achieving at high levels. Her practical approach to strategic planning, collaboration, and culture offers valuable insights for district and school leaders everywhere. Connect with Dr. Michelle Kuss-CybulaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-kuss-cybula-ed-d-4b2322319 Website: https://ohsd.net/ Email: mkuss-cybula@ohsd.net 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.

  5. Aug 7

    S.5 | Ep. 19: Growing Student Success Through Trust, Purpose, and Everyday Excellence

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Scott Nielsen, Superintendent of Weld RE-5J School District in Colorado. With more than three decades in education and a career that began in special education, Scott shares how his experiences as a teacher, coach, principal, and district leader have shaped a leadership philosophy rooted in relationships, strengths, and student-centered learning.Scott reflects on leading a growing district while rebuilding trust, strengthening instructional leadership, and creating systems that empower educators to improve outcomes for every student. He explains how shifting the focus from accountability ratings to daily teaching and learning has transformed professional learning communities, increased collaboration among school leaders, and helped one elementary school become a model for instructional excellence across the district. The conversation also explores celebrating success, elevating student voice, expanding work-based learning opportunities, and helping every student discover a sense of purpose and belonging. Scott shares practical leadership lessons on simplifying priorities, building strong school culture, and creating learning experiences that connect students' passions with future opportunities. Key Moments 02:43 Lessons from Special Education Leadership 05:46 Leading a Growing School District 08:36 Moving Schools to High Performance 11:14 Celebrating Teacher Success 15:33 Rebuilding Trust Across the District 16:40 Growing Instructional Leadership 20:19 Creating Authentic Learning Environments 23:48 Celebrating Students and Staff 25:12 Elevating Student Voice 29:16 The Future of Weld RE-5J 32:38 Connecting Learning to Student Passions Why You'll Love This Episode Scott shares practical strategies for strengthening instructional leadership, building trust, and creating systems that improve student outcomes through collaboration rather than compliance. His insights on celebrating success, listening to students, and connecting learning to purpose offer valuable takeaways for superintendents, principals, and district leaders committed to continuous improvement. Connect with Scott NielsenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-nielsenre5j Website: https://weldre5j.org/ Email: scott.nielsen@weldre5j.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.

  6. Aug 5

    S.5 | Ep. 18: Why Trust Is Every Leader's Greatest Asset with Dr. Gearl Loden

    In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Gearl Loden, Superintendent of Nixa Public Schools in Missouri and author of Before It Breaks: The Seven Pillars of Trust Every Leader Must Build. With more than 36 years in education and 18 years as a superintendent, Dr. Loden shares how his personal experiences, leadership journey, and passion for developing people have shaped one of the nation's highest-performing school districts. Drawing from both his new book and his leadership experience, Dr. Loden explains why trust is the foundation of every successful organization. He discusses practical strategies for building stronger teams, repairing damaged relationships, creating systems that support people, and leading with courage through difficult conversations. The conversation also explores Nixa Public Schools' transformation through professional learning communities, community partnerships, innovative leadership development, and proactive decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Loden shares how focusing on trust, continuous improvement, and serving the entire community has helped Nixa become one of the top-performing districts in Missouri while maintaining a culture where both students and staff thrive. Key Moments 03:55 How Personal Challenges Shaped His Leadership 06:05 Why Trust Is Every Leader's Foundation 07:13 The 72-Hour Trust Protocol 10:26 Building Competent Systems, Not Just Competent People 19:02 Leading Through the Pandemic 24:38 Preparing Before COVID Changed Everything 27:57 One Nixa and Building Community Connections 33:24 Earning Community Trust Through Leadership 35:26 Why Public Education Matters More Than Ever 39:30 Creating a Culture Where Employees Thrive Why You'll Love This Episode Dr. Loden blends practical leadership strategies with personal stories that demonstrate how trust, strong systems, and genuine care for people create thriving schools. Whether you're leading a district, a campus, or a team, this conversation offers actionable ideas for building stronger relationships, developing future leaders, and creating a culture where everyone can succeed. Exclusive Unlock 360 BonusBefore It Breaks: https://a.co/d/03nCfWkq  Purchase "Before It Breaks" and register your copy to receive Dr. Loden's companion resources. Unlock 360 listeners can also receive the exclusive workbook after August 7 by using the promo code below when registering their book. You'll also gain access to Dr. Loden's complimentary leadership masterclasses and additional downloadable resources designed to help you put the book's concepts into practice. Promo Code: Unlock360 Connect with Dr. Gearl LodenWebsite: https://www.nixapublicschools.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gearl-loden-lodenleadership Email: gearlloden@nixaschools.net 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.

  7. Aug 3

    S.5 | Ep. 17: Growing Stronger Schools Through Culture, Grit, and Leadership with Dr. Eichelberger

    In this episode of Unlock 360, host Wendy York Davoud welcomes Dr. Drew Eichelberger, Superintendent of Piedmont Public Schools in Oklahoma. With leadership experience spanning the classroom, campus administration, and two superintendencies, Drew shares how a focus on relationships, strong culture, and continuous improvement has helped guide one of Oklahoma's fastest-growing school districts.Drew discusses how Piedmont has balanced rapid enrollment growth while maintaining a strong commitment to academic excellence, teacher support, and student success. He explains why developing grit, empathy, and integrity alongside strong academic performance prepares students for success long after graduation, and how investing in teachers remains the district's greatest strategy for improving outcomes. The conversation also explores collaborative leadership, professional learning communities, leadership development, Capturing Kids' Hearts, and creating systems that empower educators to lead. Drew shares practical lessons on building district culture, engaging stakeholders in shared decision-making, and ensuring every student benefits from caring, highly effective teachers. Key Moments 00:20 Drew's Journey into Education 03:13 Leading a Fast-Growing School District 05:51 Why Grit and Empathy Matter 09:15 Building a Shared District Vision 11:36 Turning Core Values into Daily Practice 13:29 Supporting Teachers for Student Success 14:46 Professional Learning Communities in Action 16:39 Collaborative Leadership Systems 18:48 Research on Teacher-Student Relationships 23:25 Building a Strong District Culture 26:22 Developing Future School Leaders 31:32 Preparing Every Student for Success 35:21 The Mentor Who Shaped Drew's Leadership Why You'll Love This Episode Dr. Eichelberger shares thoughtful leadership strategies for creating positive school culture, supporting educators, and building collaborative systems that improve student outcomes. His practical insights on leadership development, teacher investment, and organizational culture offer valuable lessons for district and school leaders alike. Connect with Dr. Drew EichelbergerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-eichelberger-17736719 Website: https://www.piedmontschools.org/ Email: drew.eichelberger@piedmontschools.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.

  8. Jul 30

    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.

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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
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wendy York Davoud
  • Show Website
    Unlock 360