Superintendent Hot Seat with Michael McCormick

By Schoolbeat
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Host Michael McCormick digs deep with K–12 superintendents and education leaders tackling the real challenges of student wellness, school safety, and system-wide change. From policy shifts to practical wins, every episode explores what it really takes to lead in today’s complex education landscape.

  1. May 7

    Dr Miguel Cardona: 12th U.S. SECRETARY OF EDUCATION

    This episode of the Superintendent Hot Seat Podcast features a rare, candid conversation with U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona. Moving beyond high-level policy, Dr. Cardona shares a "from the trenches" perspective on the youth mental health crisis, where he describes schools as the "psychological emergency rooms" of our society. The discussion flows from the complex impact of technology and unregulated AI on student socialization to the vital need for social-emotional learning as a proactive "ounce of prevention". Framing the defense of public education as a mission to protect democracy and civil rights for every child, Dr. Cardona offers an inspiring look at the privilege of helping students reach their full potential.

    18 min

  2. Apr 17

    Dr. Adam Clark: Putting Students at the Forefront

    In this episode, Mount Diablo Unified Superintendent Adam Clark discusses his student-centered leadership approach. He emphasizes that academic instruction is only effective when students feel safe and connected. Drawing on his experience across all school levels, Dr. Clark advocates for developmental support rather than a "one-size-fits-all" model. For middle schoolers, he focuses on fostering a sense of belonging through elective exploration, relationship-focused leadership, and the expansion of wellness centers. In high school, he highlights extracurriculars like sports and drama as vital "hooks" for academic engagement. Ultimately, his goal is for every student to leave with a fundamentally positive experience. He attributes his success to leading with gratitude and a growth mindset alongside a responsive school board.

    35 min

  3. Apr 3

    Dr. Sarah Stone: Reimagining Student Wellness with 5 Key Strategies

    In this insightful interview, Superintendent Sarah Stone shares her innovative approaches to student wellness, emphasizing the importance of understanding each child's unique needs, creating supportive spaces, and fostering resilience. Discover how her district promotes joy, inclusivity, and agency among students and staff to build a healthier, more engaged learning community.

    34 min

  4. Apr 2

    Dr. Terrence Davis: Building Connected Campuses - How Banning Unified Supports Student Mental Health

    In this insightful interview, Superintendent Terrence Davis shares innovative approaches to student wellness, the importance of community and connection, and personal strategies for maintaining well-being in educational leadership.

    24 min

  5. Apr 1

    Dr. Ivan Duran: Building a Culture of Belonging in Schools

    In this episode of the Superintendent Hot Seat, Dr. Ivan Duran, Superintendent of Highline Schools, discusses the importance of student wellness, the creation of a culture of belonging, and the innovative career and technical education programs in his district. He emphasizes the need for deeper connections with students, the role of community partnerships, and the significance of empowering student leadership. Dr. Duran also shares his personal self-care practices as a leader and the importance of involving teachers in decision-making processes to foster a healthy educational environment.

    28 min
  6. Shannon Cox: Rethinking Student Wellness - A New Approach

    Apr 1

    Shannon Cox: Rethinking Student Wellness - A New Approach

    In this episode of the Superintendent Hot Seat, Michael McCormick interviews Shannon Cox from the Montgomery County Educational Service Center. They discuss the evolving approaches to student wellness, emphasizing the importance of supporting adults in the educational system first. Shannon shares insights on building comprehensive support systems for schools, the significance of personal wellness practices for leaders, and the power of gratitude in their work. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by schools in the wake of trauma and the need for tailored, community-based solutions.

    32 min
  7. Dr. Sharon Kherat: The Unsung Heroes of Student Support

    Apr 1

    Dr. Sharon Kherat: The Unsung Heroes of Student Support

    The conversation highlights the crucial role of cafeteria workers in identifying and supporting students' emotional and social needs. It emphasizes the importance of building connections and advocacy within the school environment to ensure that every student receives the support they need.

    30 min

  8. Mar 15

    Dr. Gina Zietlow: Rethinking Student Wellness in Education

    In this episode of the Superintendent Hot Seat podcast, Michael McCormick engages with Dr. Gina Zietlow, Superintendent of ABC Unified School District, discussing the pressing challenges of student wellness, mental health, and the evolving role of educators in supporting students. They explore the importance of mental health resources in schools, the shift in student awareness regarding their own wellness, and the initiatives taken to address these issues, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Dr. Zietlow shares insights on the significance of social-emotional learning, the expansion of career and technical education, and the necessity of fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff.

    35 min
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Host Michael McCormick digs deep with K–12 superintendents and education leaders tackling the real challenges of student wellness, school safety, and system-wide change. From policy shifts to practical wins, every episode explores what it really takes to lead in today’s complex education landscape.

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