What does effective school leadership look like in a fast-growing public school district? In this episode of the EduCurious Podcast, Dr. Amber Love Johnson sits down with Superintendent Fred Heid of Polk County Public Schools to discuss educational leadership, accountability, school culture, student assessment, district growth, and the future of AI in education. Fred Heid shares his journey from biology major to superintendent and offers practical insights on how school districts can build stronger leadership pipelines, support teachers, improve school climate, manage population growth, and create better outcomes for students. The conversation also explores how educators can rethink grading, accountability, and the achievement gap while using innovation and artificial intelligence responsibly. This episode is for: teachers, principals, assistant principals, superintendents, district leaders, instructional coaches, parents, education advocates, and anyone interested in K-12 leadership and school improvement. Visit: https://www.polkschoolsfl.com/ In this conversation: • Fred Heid’s path to becoming a superintendent • What makes Polk County Public Schools unique • Managing district growth and rezoning • Building leadership capacity in education • Accountability for leaders, teachers, and students • Better approaches to student assessment • School culture and parent engagement • Student voice and advocacy in schools • The achievement gap and education policy • AI in education, data privacy, and teacher support • Leadership lessons learned over time If you care about public education, school leadership, AI in schools, student success, and the future of K-12 education, this episode will give you a lot to think about. Subscribe to EduCurious for more conversations with educational leaders, innovators, and changemakers. #EducationLeadership #AIinEducation #SchoolLeadership #FredHeid #PolkCountySchools #EduCurious #K12Education #PublicEducation The EduCurious Podcast explores a wide range of topics, from cutting-edge classroom technology to the latest research in teacher training and professional development. EduCurious is committed to fostering collaborative PD by connecting and empowering educators and facilitating meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in education. By highlighting educators' voices and expertise, we can inspire positive change and empower teachers to create impactful learning experiences for their students. Meet the Host: Dr. Amber Love Johnson Dr. Amber Love Johnson is an educator, lifelong learner, and passionate advocate for teachers and students. As the host of the EduCurious Podcast, she is driven by one central question: How can we better support educators and create meaningful learning experiences for all students? Through thoughtful conversations with educators and leaders, Dr. Johnson explores the challenges and possibilities in education. Her approach is grounded in curiosity, connection, and a deep belief in educators' power to transform lives. Website: https://amberlovejohnson.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlovejohnson/ Be Social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Edu.Curious.Podcasts?sub_confirmation=1 Website: https://educuriouspod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edu.curious.podcasts/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@educuriouspods Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EduCuriousPod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/49IJd6WG083nXhZeQWt2hk?si=300fba40fb83456c Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educurious-pods/id1798666772 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educuriouspod/
