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. 10h ago

    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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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

  5. 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.

  6. May 15

    S.5 | Ep. 8: Building One District, Not a Collection of Schools with Jamie Bente

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Jamie Bente, Superintendent of Faribault Public Schools in Minnesota, to discuss district transformation, system coherence, and what it takes to unify schools around a shared vision. Since becoming superintendent in 2022, Jamie has led Faribault Public Schools through major organizational change, including district restructuring, strategic planning, and efforts to break down long-standing silos between campuses. Drawing on experience as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, principal, and now superintendent, Jamie shares the unique perspective he brings to district leadership and the lessons he has learned navigating change at scale. In this conversation, Jamie explains how Faribault shifted from operating like “multiple districts” into a more unified system focused on collaboration, consistency, and student-centered decision making. He also reflects on the importance of creating clear expectations through the district’s “playbook,” improving professional learning communities, and balancing autonomy with centralized systems. Key Moments04:36 Understanding district-wide education programs 07:34 Implementing district-wide systems 11:56 Evaluating teacher performance data 15:37 Improving early childhood education setup 17:57 Setting staff expectations 21:17 Updating our vision plans 22:59 Developing cross-grade teacher collaboration 27:53 First guest from Minnesota 32:21 Mentorship and career growth 33:17 Mentorship from Jason Wenschlag Why You Will Love This EpisodeIf you are leading system-wide change or working to create stronger alignment across schools, this episode offers practical insight into navigating restructuring, improving collaboration, and building a shared culture. Jamie’s honest reflections on leadership, communication, and organizational change provide valuable takeaways for superintendents, principals, and district leaders alike. Connect with Jamie BenteWebsite: https://www.faribault.k12.mn.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-bente-59891493 Email: jbente@faribault.k12.mn.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.

    S.5 | Ep. 8: Building One District, Not a Collection of Schools with Jamie Bente

  7. May 8

    S.5 | Ep. 7: Leading with Equity, Culture, and the Whole Child with Dr. Theresa Rouse

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Theresa Rouse, Superintendent of Joliet Public Schools District 86, to explore what it truly takes to move a district forward when it feels “stuck.” With over three decades in education and experience spanning classrooms, site leadership, and district roles across multiple states and even internationally, Dr. Rouse brings a powerful perspective on leadership, equity, and system transformation. In this conversation, she shares how Joliet began a deep equity journey—starting with examining internal beliefs and biases—and how that work has evolved into tangible changes in student outcomes, community perception, and district culture. From addressing achievement and discipline disparities to investing in early literacy, trauma-informed practices, and whole child development, this episode highlights how intentional leadership can reshape a system over time. Key Moments05:40 Embarking on an equity journey 09:37 Engaging with the community 13:08 Community literacy and early education 16:40 Supporting women in leadership roles 20:12 Committee involvement and coaching structure 23:49 Federal and state budget challenges 27:33 Community support and assistance programs 31:11 Supporting multilingual student families 32:44 Settling down in Joliet community 35:42 Connecting with an old friend 38:52 Mentorship impact and philosophy Why You Will Love This Episode If you are leading in a complex district environment, this episode offers a real-world look at how long-term change actually happens. Dr. Rouse doesn’t talk about quick wins—she shares what it takes to shift mindsets, systems, and outcomes over time. You will gain insight into leading equity work authentically, building strong community partnerships, and balancing academic priorities with the realities students bring to school every day. Connect with Dr. Theresa Rouse Website: https://www.joliet86.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-rouse-ed-d-bb65521a Email: trouse@joliet86.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.

    S.5 | Ep. 7: Leading with Equity, Culture, and the Whole Child with Dr. Theresa Rouse

  8. Apr 3

    S.5 | Ep. 6: Dr. Ryan D. Smith on Values-Driven Leadership and Future-Ready Systems

    In this episode, Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Ryan D. Smith, Deputy Superintendent of Bellflower Unified School District, to explore how districts can move beyond vision statements and build systems that truly reflect their core values. Dr. Smith shares his unique journey from a “lost” college freshman to a math teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and now deputy superintendent, highlighting the mentors, risks, and pivotal moments that shaped his leadership path. The conversation centers on one critical idea: values only matter if they guide action. Ryan breaks down how Bellflower USD is re-engaging its community to define mission, vision, and values—and more importantly, how they are translating those into measurable student outcomes through a learner profile. From building a guiding coalition of diverse stakeholders to rethinking hiring practices with AI, this episode offers a practical look at what it takes to align systems with purpose. Key Moments 05:21 Turning around Leuzinger High School 07:25 Switching from teaching to business 10:01 Ryan's early career and engagement 14:14 Defining mission, vision, and values 17:57 Navigating conflict with core values 21:29 Creating a learner profile framework 26:28 Challenges of personalized education 29:58 Using AI to screen candidates 31:02 Using AI in hiring Why You Will Love This Episode If you are working to align your district’s vision with real classroom impact, this episode delivers both inspiration and clarity. Dr. Ryan D. Smith shares how to turn abstract ideas like “innovation” and “collaboration” into measurable outcomes—and how to build systems that actually support them. You will walk away with practical insight on leading values-driven change, engaging your community in meaningful ways, and preparing students for a future that is still unfolding. Connect with Dr. Ryan D. SmithWebsite: https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandsmithedd Email: ryansmith@busd.k12.ca.us Articles & Additional Info: https://www.ryandsmithedd.com/  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.

    S.5 | Ep. 6: Dr. Ryan D. Smith on Values-Driven Leadership and Future-Ready Systems
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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
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wendy York Davoud
  • Show Website
    Unlock 360