KASA: The Ed Leader Podcast

KASA

We exist to help you grow into your leadership potential.

  1. Mar 31

    The Reality of School Safety

    In this episode of the KASA Ed Leader Podcast, we sit down with nationally recognized school safety expert Sean Burke, President of the National School Safety Advocacy Council. With decades of experience in law enforcement, public safety, and school systems, Burke brings a direct and practical perspective on what it really takes to create safer schools. From understanding student behavior and early warning signs to building systems that support prevention—not just response—this conversation challenges common assumptions and refocuses leaders on what actually makes a difference.

    32 min

  2. Mar 23

    Don’t Rob the Struggle: Rethinking AI in Education

    Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping education—but where does it truly belong in the learning process? In this episode, Dr. Shawn Bishop joins KASA to explore how school leaders can thoughtfully integrate AI without losing sight of what matters most: student learning. From building policies rooted in philosophy to understanding when AI should—and shouldn’t—be used, Sean offers practical frameworks and real-world examples. He also shares creative ways schools are already using AI to enhance culture, engagement, and instruction. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your approach, this conversation provides both clarity and direction.

    21 min

  3. Mar 4

    Inside Senate Bill 101 and What It Means for Kentucky Schools

    In this episode of the EdLeader Podcast, KASA CEO Dr. Rhonda Caldwell sits down with Senator Matt Nunn to break down the intent and impact of Senate Bill 101. Representing Kentucky’s 17th Senate District, Senator Nunn discusses how the legislation addresses school employee assaults, discipline policy, and teacher retention across the Commonwealth. They examine key provisions, reporting concerns, and the balance between accountability and student support. At less than 20 minutes, this concise conversation delivers clear insight for school leaders tracking policy shifts that directly affect teaching and learning.

    15 min

  4. 11/05/2025

    Wayne Young on Leadership, Law, and Legacy

    Executive Director Rhonda Caldwell and General Counsel Wayne Young unpack KASA’s powerful trifecta of legal protections for school leaders — from counsel and cost coverage to liability insurance. Learn about new member benefits, including the Win with Wayne video series and a must-attend webinar on public employee free speech.

    30 min

  5. 10/01/2025

    Pre-K for All: Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman on Building Kentucky’s Future

    In this episode of the KASA EdLeader Podcast, Executive Director Rhonda Caldwell sits down with Kentucky Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman to discuss the ambitious Pre-K for All initiative. Lt. Gov. Coleman outlines why early childhood education is critical to student success, how pre-K impacts third-grade literacy and even long-term prison rates, and what it will take to move from just 27% of four-year-olds in public pre-K to full access statewide. They also explore the broader implications of pre-K: How access could allow 70,000 Kentuckians to reenter the workforce. Why investing in pre-K delivers a 10-to-1 return for the economy. The importance of respecting and supporting teachers in addressing Kentucky’s educator shortage. Building bipartisan support for lasting education reform. With a blend of data, personal insight, and a clear call to action, Lt. Gov. Coleman makes the case for why Kentucky can’t afford to wait on universal pre-K.

    16 min

  6. 08/22/2025

    Teacher, Legislator, Leader: A Conversation with Rep. Tina Bojanowski

    Representative Tina Bojanowski is both a special education teacher and a Kentucky legislator, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of classrooms and policy. In this episode, she shares her journey, unpacks key education challenges, and offers insights on advocacy, accountability, and the future of public schools in Kentucky.

    32 min

  7. 05/28/2025

    Rep. Scott Lewis: From Classroom to Capitol

    Join us in this episode of the Ed Leader Podcast as host Rhonda Caldwell sits down with Chairman Scott Lewis, a prominent figure in Kentucky's educational landscape. From his roots as a dedicated teacher and coach to his current role as Chairman of the Primary and Secondary Education Committee in the Kentucky House of Representatives, Scott Lewis shares his inspiring journey and vision for Kentucky's youth. Discover his insights on the challenges and triumphs of the education system, his advocacy for early literacy, and his strategies for building a brighter future through education.

    26 min

  8. 04/17/2025

    Substitute Teacher Toolkit

    In this episodes, Rhonda speaks with Garrett Frank, Bryan Lyell, & Chris Barrier around the new Substitute Teacher Toolkit. The Safety Council has developed this comprehensive Substitute Teacher Toolkit designed to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for both students and substitutes. The toolkit equips substitutes with essential resources and guidelines, helping them navigate the classroom confidently while prioritizing student safety.

    23 min
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