MI SoundBoard: Recent Episodes
Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB)
MI SoundBoard is the Michigan Association of School Boards' ongoing dialogue on the current state of public education in Michigan and nationwide. Listen along as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba invites prominent education voices from across the nation to speak about what’s happening and the possible impact on students.
In this episode of MISoundBoard, we sit down with Venessa Keesler, Ph.D., President and CEO of Launch Michigan, to explore the Michigan Education Guarantee—what it promises for students and how its vision can become a reality in classrooms across the state.
In this episode of MISoundBoard, we sit down with Jen Saylor, Ph.D., NBCT-R, Director, and DeNesha Rawls‑Smith, M.A.Ed., Literacy Unit Manager at the Michigan Department of Education, to unpack Michigan's newest student literacy law. They break down what the legislation means for districts, how its structures support stronger literacy outcomes, and the practical steps leaders can take to ensure every student benefits. For more information about the law, visit michigan.gov/mde/services/academic-standards/literacy/k-12-literacy-and-dyslexia-law
What's happening in Washington, D.C., that could shape the future of Michigan public schools? Don Wotruba talks with Dr. Phelton Moss, Ph.D., Managing Director of Government Relations from the National School Boards Association, about the advocacy work happening on behalf of public education nationwide and the federal issues currently affecting Michigan districts.
It's MISoundBoard's 200th episode—and we're flipping the script! In this special milestone edition, MASB Board Liaison Brooke Wooley, Ed.S., steps in as host to interview Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Tune in as Don reflects on 200 episodes of insights, stories, and impact—plus answers a few fun and unexpected questions along the way.
With new school board members joining districts across Michigan this election year, now is the time to take a proactive approach to board development. In this episode, MASB's Assistant Director of Leadership Development, Debbie Stair, M.N.M.L., shares practical strategies for identifying and encouraging civic-minded individuals to step forward—those who are truly passionate about strengthening education and supporting every student's success.
The MELG leadership team returns to the podcast to share the latest updates from their organizations and discuss how they—and their members—are preparing for the upcoming school year. In this episode, hear insights from Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. (Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators), Wendy Zdeb (Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals), and Bob Dwan, SFO, CFO (Michigan School Business Officials) as they highlight key priorities, challenges, and opportunities ahead.
Michigan's proposed education budget is on the table, and now all eyes are on the legislature. As school boards wait to see how the House and Senate shape—and ultimately finalize—the plan, key priorities and controversies are coming into focus.
Jennifer Smith, MASB's Director of Government Relations, joins MISoundBoard to break down what's at stake—from promising highlights like free meals for all students to the ongoing debate surrounding Section 31aa.
Michigan's new State Superintendent, Glenn Maleyko, Ph.D., joins MI SoundBoard to share his vision for education in the state. Tune in to hear about his focus on improving literacy, the journey that led him to this role, and how a passion for hockey helped inspire his career in education.
In this special episode of MI SoundBoard, we welcome Joshua Cowen, Ph.D., Professor of Education Policy at Michigan State University, to discuss the ongoing conflict over school vouchers and their troubled track record with public schools.
In his debut episode of MI SoundBoard, Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Kevin Kelly, M.Ed., joins the conversation to unpack the current landscape of superintendent leadership in Michigan's public schools. From trends in the applicant pool to strategies districts can use to look inward when a superintendent is preparing to retire, Kevin shares practical insights for navigating leadership transitions with confidence.
Michigan—and much of the country—is facing a growing teacher shortage. With special guest Tara Kilbride, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Education Policy Innovation Collaboration at MSU, we dive into the data to explore what's driving the issue, how schools can better retain educators, and how universities can help bring the next generation of teachers into the classroom.
In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're honored to welcome Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Kimberly Carter, Ed.D., from Battle Creek Public Schools. Dr. Carter shares the visionary work that led to her nomination, highlighting the transformative programs she has implemented across the district. These initiatives are expanding opportunities, fostering equity, and empowering both students and staff to thrive.
Supporting student mental health is one of the most urgent and persistent challenges facing today's school districts—and having the right tools can make all the difference. Returning guest Lauren Kazee, Vice President of National Partnerships at the TRAILS program, joins us to discuss the innovative resources her organization is bringing to Michigan schools and how these efforts are improving the well-being of students across the state.
The Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals has announced its 2026 Michigan High School Principal of the Year—and in this episode, we sit down with the winner, Tiela Schurman of Midland High School. Listen in as she shares her passion for building exceptional learning environments, the ways she empowers teachers to do their best work, and the leadership philosophy that drives her success.
After a prolonged delay, the school aid budget has finally made its way through the legislature, impacting districts across the state. Director of Government Relations Jen Smith joins us to break down the highs and lows of the budget and what districts should be preparing for in the coming fiscal year.
We're coming to you from the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference in beautiful Traverse City! One of the most anticipated ALC sessions each year is the Michigan Council of School Attorneys Fall Conference. In this episode, we're joined by MASB's Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations and Policy, Brad Banasik, J.D., to share highlights from the conference and offer practical advice on how your board can stay proactive and prepared.
When Corey Rosser decided to lead by being his authentic self, everything changed. Now, as the 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year, the North Branch Area Public Schools educator joins MISoundBoard to share how connection, honesty, and heart have shaped his journey.
As the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference approaches, we’re excited to share a conversation with one of our keynote speakers who will be joining us in Traverse City. In this episode, leadership consultant and author George Couros discusses practical ways to foster innovative mindsets in public education—and how to bring everyone along on the journey.
Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, sits down with MASB’s newest board president, Dale Wingerd, a President's award-winning board member who serves both Clinton Community Schools and Lenawee Intermediate School District. With a lifelong passion for learning, Dale shares what he's looking forward to most this year.
The Michigan College Access Network joins the podcast with its Executive Director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss, to discuss how the organization works to ensure all Michigan students understand the opportunities available to them for education beyond high school, as well as the current state of college graduates in the state.
The long-running lawsuit against the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) over superintendent compensation may be settled, but the implications are still unfolding. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, and Bob Schindler, attorney at Miller Johnson and legal representative in the case, to break down what the settlement means for districts. Learn what steps administrators can take now to prepare for the coming changes to superintendent retirement compensation.
The 2025–26 school year is already off to a rocky start, with state budget delays leaving districts in limbo. In this episode of MISoundBoard, we talk with MASB Deputy Director Kent Cartwright, Ed.D., CPA, about the challenges school leaders face when funding is uncertain. Drawing on his deep experience in school finance, Kent shares practical insights on navigating budgeting obstacles and what to keep in mind as the year unfolds.
At MASB, one of our core missions is helping school boards work more effectively—regardless of who's at the table. A key tool in achieving that goal is the DISC assessment, a proven method for understanding behavioral styles and improving communication. In this episode, we’re joined by MASB’s own Education Programming Manager, MacKenzie Feldpausch, M.A., our in-house DISC expert. MacKenzie shares insights into how DISC can transform the way boards collaborate, connect, and lead together.
On this episode of MISoundboard, we sit down with Doug LeFleur, Vice President of Business Development at Munetrix, to dive into the often-overlooked world of school data. What insights—and opportunities—can districts uncover when they truly invest in understanding their data?
In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're turning the tables once again. Yasmeen Youngs, the MASB Board of Directors' Member-At-Large, joins us as the interviewer rather than a guest. MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, takes the guest seat to share his personal insights on the state of public education, MASB's mission and his experiences within the association. It's a fresh perspective on the familiar voices you've come to know.
AI is evolving fast—and reshaping the way we live, learn, and teach. In this episode, we welcome back Justin Bruno, AI Strategist at Michigan Virtual, to explore the latest trends in artificial intelligence and what they mean for the future of education.
In today’s often polarized climate, even school governance isn't immune to political tension. That’s why fostering civility among school board members is more important than ever. Join David Dulio, Ph.D.—political science professor and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University—for a thoughtful conversation with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Together, they explore the importance of respectful dialogue, the role of civic engagement, and what we can all learn from choosing civility in challenging times.
On this episode of MI Soundboard, we dive into the most critical relationship influencing the success of any school district—the one between the board and the superintendent. Tina Kerr, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), joins MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba for a candid conversation on why this partnership must be built on trust, communication, and shared vision from day one.
Investing in professional development is key to fostering meaningful change in education. In this episode, we’re joined by School Design Strategist Tovah Sheldon, Ph.D., from Michigan Virtual, to explore their transformative coaching program. Discover how this initiative helps district leaders ignite innovation, drive progress, and create lasting impact in their schools.
Effective onboarding for newly elected board members can mean the difference between smooth, strategic governance and dysfunction. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Horst and Amanda Love to discuss how they transformed a contentious election into a collaborative, high-functioning board in Clarkston Community Schools. Tune in to hear their journey from division to unity.
Kent ISD’s Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns, returns to the podcast to share insights on the district’s proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response.
This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto, as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School.
After every election year, MASB’s Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key priorities that will guide our advocacy efforts over the next two years.
Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan’s school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Executive Search Services. Together, we’ll discuss how school boards can foster a productive, collaborative environment with both new and experienced superintendents—setting the stage for a successful year ahead!
Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the Year is back, and it's one you won’t want to miss! Join us as Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt shares the creative ways he’s helping students reach their potential and creating a productive school culture.
The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB’s own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.
In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line’s mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.
Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we’re excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation’s current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to support students across the state.
setseg.org/foundation
In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning.
AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it’s a discussion that’s here to stay. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district’s classrooms. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities—and important precautions—surrounding this transformative technology.
With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.
In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox, Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education.
In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson, the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community.
The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it’s creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith, as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point.
In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano, the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award.
The Michigan legislature has spoken and there are new laws surrounding how you evaluate your superintendents. Hear from MASB’s own Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. along with Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. about what you can expect from these changes.
School safety is a crucial topic that requires our constant attention to enable proactive measures against violence. In this episode, we welcome back Kim Root, Manager of the Office of School Safety, to discuss the current state of school safety and the valuable resources her department provides to school districts.
As it's an election year, will all of your seats be filled? Join Executive Director Don Wotruba and Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair as they discuss the current state of boards of education in Michigan and why it's crucial to bring civic-minded individuals to the table.
Join our Executive Director, Don Wotruba as he talks to Venessa Keesler, self-proclaimed data nerd and President and CEO of Launch Michigan, about the ways data, policy and advocacy can help Michigan students succeed.
Learn more about the goals of the new MiLEAP Department with Acting Director Michelle Richard.
In this episode, Rick Dernberger, who serves on the MASB Board of Directors, Ottawa ISD board, and Zeeland Public Schools board, takes on the role of interviewer, putting MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, in the guest seat. They discuss the various services and benefits offered by MASB, the importance of ongoing education for board members, the history of the organization and more.
Join us for a discussion on the evolving landscape of special education with Abby Cypher, the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education. We will cover topics such as funding changes and their impacts on both special and general education budgets, the role of paraeducators, and training programs.
In this episode, we welcome Cedar Springs Superintendent Scott Smith along with high school students Evan Mattson and Ian VanderLugt. They provide an inside look at their unique podcast and video gaming collaboration, which bridges the gap between students and administration. We also explore the impact of social media and content creation on today's youth. Tune in to discover how open dialogue and collaboration are shaping the future of learning.
Discover the crucial role that national organizations play in shaping public education. In this episode, we're joined by Don Hubler, who shares his journey from serving on a local school board to being a member of the Macomb ISD board, MASB Board of Directors, and president-elect of the National School Boards Association.
Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, as he addresses insightful questions on a range of topics, including the MASB Board of Directors nomination process, the protocol for hiring superintendents, and more.
We sit down with Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. to talk about the changes happening to labor relations and what you can expect this bargaining season.
With a new calendar year underway, we look ahead to what 2024 may bring for Michigan public education. Joining us are Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. from the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Robert Dwan, CFO, SFO from Michigan School Business Officials and Wendy Zdeb from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
Join Don as he sits down with the 2024 Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Jeffrey Collier from Saginaw ISD to discuss how it feels to be the first ISD superintendent to receive this award and about the important services and support ISDs can provide to their communities.
In this episode, join Executive Director Don Wotruba, as he engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jamey Fitzpatrick, President and CEO of Michigan Virtual, and Ken Dirkin, their Senior Director of MVLRI. Together, they delve into the implications of AI on public schools and student education. The conversation unravels the potential shifts, challenges, and opportunities that AI presents and explores actionable insights for school board members to proactively shape policies in response to this evolving landscape.
Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with the 2023-24 Michigan Teacher of the Year, Candice Jackson to discuss the crucial role of involving parents in their children's education and gain a firsthand perspective on the experiences of a minority teacher in the state.
Take a listen to what you can expect at ALC 2023 when Executive Director Don Wotruba sits down with keynote speakers Gregg Behr and Ryan Rydzewski. They talk about their book, When You Wonder, You’re Learning, and how the lessons from Mister Rogers are still valid today.
You can also listen to their own podcast, Remaking Tomorrow, about engaging and equitable learning.
Join Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE as he speaks with the superintendent of Kent ISD Ron Koehler along with their Director of Safety and Security Sean Burns about the importance of planning ahead and sharing resources to keep our schools safe.
Listen as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE talks to Kevin Stotts, President of Talent First about how they are encouraging communities to work collectively on building literacy and not leaving it all on the shoulders of educators.
Join MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba CAE as he speaks to new Michigan School Business Officials Executive Director Bob Dwan CFO SFO about the importance of school business offices and how MSBO works to support them.
Join Don to learn more about our 2023-2024 MASB Board of Directors President Kathleen Moore.
Join MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba as he talks with Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair about how boards are more effective when they ask good questions, work towards their common goals and learn together.
When students don't feel safe in their environment, it can impact their mental health, which in turn impacts their learning. In this episode, we speak with Brooke Davis, LMSW, Director of Diversity, Equity and Mental Health Services at Kenowa Hills Public Schools. We discuss the importance of mental health support for students and what board members can do to ensure that all students feel safe, supported, and able to be themselves at school.
Davis will present on Mental Health Through the Lens of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social-Emotional Learning at the upcoming 2023 Summer Institute on Friday, Aug. 11.
Continuity, leadership and the way boards and superintendents handle turnover are important to high student achievement. Join Don and special guests Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed. and Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. to talk about these topics and more, as they discuss the State of the Superintendency in Michigan.
How can school districts model appropriate use of AI technologies for their students? Dr. Don Killingbeck of Hemlock Public Schools joins the podcast to talk about how his district uses artificial intelligence tools.
How can school districts support students and address growing mental health concerns? In this episode, Managing Director of Strategic Alliances for TRAILS Lauren Kazee joins us to discuss programs and solutions districts can implement to “Transform Research Into Action to Improve the Lives of Students.”
Principal Tony Koski is passionate about celebrating the students, staff, and parents of Northville High School. Join us as we learn more about the 2023 Principal of the Year.
In the midst of high-polarization and politicization, it’s become more important than ever to create space for Civil Discourse. What does that really mean? This episode explores how to engage others in constructive ways that don’t require consensus but openness and mutual respect. Greg Warsen, Padnos/Sarosik Endowed Professor of Civil Discourse, offers perspectives and guidance for school officials.
Being a successful school board member takes a wide range of skills and understanding. To better support board members, MASB offers a number of classes that focus on the most essential information and practices for governing with excellence. In this episode, we talk with MASB’s own Certification Manager and Instructional Designer, Amy Rucker about opportunities for board member growth.
The Michigan Legislature has a number of public education bills being acted on and considered. Hear from Sen. Dayna Polehanki about those that could most-greatly impact Michigan school districts.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer presented her 2023-2024 budget to the Legislature on Feb. 8, 2023. Beth Bullion, M.P.A., Director for the Office of Education for the State Budget Office and Stephanie O'Dea, M.P.A., K-12 Education Policy Advisor for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer join us to discuss some highlights of the proposed budget and how it supports an equitable and exceptional education for all students.
Michigan schools aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that means that it takes a team of advocates to represent their voices and needs. It’s no wonder that there are numerous organizations centered around serving and advocating for their member districts. In this episode, Executive Director of the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity, Peter Spadafore, joins us to discuss how their organization supports districts with the greatest educational needs who have historically been underserved by the educational system.
Building and strengthening the board-superintendent relationship is one of the most important aspects of effective governance and with significant turnover in both areas, it’s no easy task. In this episode, Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators Executive Director Tina Kerr, Ph.D. joins us to discuss strategies for strengthening relationships, working together cohesively and ways forward.
Representation at the national level has always been important to Michigan school board members and MASB. In this episode, we talk with new Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer John Heim, Ph.D. from the National School Boards Association about his background and how the association is moving forward and pivoting to serve its members.
Representation at the national level has always been important to Michigan school board members and MASB. In this episode, we talk with new Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer John Heim, Ph.D. from the National School Boards Association about his background and how the association is moving forward and pivoting to serve its members.
With a new calendar year underway, we look ahead to what 2023 may bring for Michigan public education. Joining us are Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. from the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, David Martell, CPA, CFO from Michigan School Business Officials and Wendy Zdeb from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
It’s our annual conversation with the Michigan Teacher of the Year—Nanette Hanson from Escanaba Public Schools is the 2022-2023 recipient. She shares a U.P. connection with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE and talks about her surprise at being nominated as well as her strong belief in building relationships with her students’ parents and social-emotional learning.
There are many organizations in the Michigan public education arena. We talk with the new Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Intermediate School Administrators, John Severson, Ph.D., about how we collaborate and listen at the state level, as well as how ISDs and locals work together for the common good of their communities.
We had the pleasure of speaking to the 2023 Michigan Superintendent of the Year Monica Merritt, Ed.D. from Plymouth-Canton Community Schools. She shared some personal and district successes along with how she’s handled contentious issues. From her experiences, she hopes any person or district can take the example she intentionally (or unintentionally) sets and use it in their lives or community.
Michigan’s students deserve all the help, direction and opportunities they can get in education, employment and life. Youth Solutions, a nonprofit organization based in Benton Harbor, has been providing programs and services to equip young people with the skills to overcome barriers and succeed. Director of Strategic Operations Sonya Blanzy joins us in this episode to shed light on their mission and activities.
We live in a society that often does not value the importance of keeping our promises. It’s too easy to say, “I’ll get to it later.” Alex Sheen, #MASBALC 2022 General Session speaker and the Founder of because I said I would., a social movement and nonprofit dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept, talks with us about how his organization is aiming to make a difference, including with kids, by teaching about self-control, honesty and accountability.
It’s one of the largest industries in the world and a rising league-based school club in your district—Esports is a hit with Michigan students. In this episode, we talk with Ryan Cayce, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals’ Director of Digital Learning & Resources/Director of Esports, on how a district can get involved as well as how this team-based extracurricular is beneficial to a district’s students and its finances.
What is the difference between respect and dignity and why is it important in our classrooms? Rosalind Wiseman, Cofounder of Cultures of Dignity and one of the 2022 General Session speakers at MASB’s Annual Leadership Conference, tells us how we can shift the way we think about young people’s physical and emotional wellbeing. She is also the author of “Queen Bees and Wannabes,” the inspiration behind the movie and Broadway show, “Mean Girls.”
A new school year brings known and unknown legal hurdles. Brad Banasik, J.D., MASB Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, joins us on the show to talk about what he thinks all districts should pay attention to for 2022-2023.
How do we engage our student leaders so they can be their best selves? Matt Alley, M.A., Associate Director of Student Services and Nina Davis, M.A., Associate Director of Member Services and Engagement at the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals talk to us about the services they offer for Michigan students including a summer camp focused on leadership.
How do we engage our student leaders so they can be their best selves? Matt Alley, M.A., Associate Director of Student Services and Nina Davis, M.A., Associate Director of Member Services and Engagement at the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals talk to us about the services they offer for Michigan students including a summer camp focused on leadership.
In the early 1980s, Huey Lewis sang “I'm taking what they giving 'cause I'm working for a livin'. . .” With all the post-secondary opportunities available, this hopefully is no longer the case. In this episode, Cindy Kangas, Executive Director of the Capital Area Manufacturing Council, talks with us about how CAMC and similar organizations are partnering with school districts and manufacturing companies to show students career path options they can be excited about.
MASB’s leadership changes over this month with Steve Hyer from Clarkston Community Schools stepping up to serve as Board President. He joins us to talk about what he is looking forward to this year and also shares how he got into board service and how it has influenced other areas of his life.
Parental involvement is integral to a strong and successful school environment. We spoke with Marcy Dwyer from the Michigan Parent Teacher Association about how parents can get involved in their district along with what the Michigan PTA has been up to recently and the resources they provide.
*This episode was recorded before the Let MI Kids Learn coalition decided not to submit signatures to get on the ballot for the November 2022 election. As noted in this podcast, they can still submit signatures and, once approved by the Board of Canvassers, the initiatives could go before the Legislature for action instead of being voted on by all Michigan voters.
It’s a conversation we wish we didn’t have to continually have—how do we keep our kids safe at school? In this episode, Kim Root, Manager of the Michigan Office of School Safety, talks about creating a culture of proactive practices and how the OSS can help.
Superintendent turnover seems to be increasing each year, but the number of candidates to fill those roles isn’t keeping up. Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., MASB’s Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, along with Jay Bennett, M.Ed., MASB’s Assistant Director of Executive Search Services, talk about some of the trends they are seeing and how a district can better plan for and train future leaders.
Sports officiating has become a more high-pressured career and recruiting is more challenging than ever. We spoke with Lowell A. Winne Jr., President of the Southwest Michigan Officials Association and registered official with the Michigan High School Athletic Association, about the promise he sees in the field and his personal experiences as an official.
It’s almost always a challenging process to work through, but budgeting is crucial to a successful school year. We spoke with Superintendent Glenn Maleyko, Ph.D. and Executive Director of Business and Operations Tom Wall from Dearborn Public Schools about the successful tools and strategies they have been using and the national recognition their process has received.
What is the National School Boards Association and what impact does it have on the bigger public education picture? We talk with Don Hubler, MASB Board member and recently elected Secretary-Treasurer for the NSBA Board of Directors, about the direction the organization is headed in, Michigan’s role through elected representation and active involvement, and overall engagement at the federal level.
There are two ballot petitions being circulated throughout the state that would take hundreds of millions of dollars away from Michigan public schools during a historic teacher shortage. Executive Director, Don Wotruba, CAE speaks with Casandra Ulbrich, Ph.D. who is co-chair of the For MI Kids, For Our Schools initiative which was formed to ensure the public is accurately informed about the intent of DeVos-backed ballot proposals that threaten public education across Michigan.
The focus on safety is always top of mind for Michigan school districts, but even more so after the tragedy in Oxford last fall. In this episode, we are joined by Jason Russell, Founder and CEO of Secure Education Consultants. He shares strategies to help districts be prepared and possibly prevent an emergency situation in their buildings.
The proposed budget impacting the 2022-2023 school year has been released along with a supplemental for the current year. In this episode, we have the Director for the Office of Education for the State Budget Office Beth Bullion, M.P.A. and Policy Advisor to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Michelle Richard, Ed.M. with the details on how the Governor is recommending these funds be allocated.
We speak with Brad Banasik, J.D., MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy, about this year’s school board elections, including the legal ins and outs, how to file, deadlines and recruitment for open seats.
In this episode, we speak with Adam Zemke, President of Launch Michigan, about the teacher shortage crisis in Michigan and around the nation. He also shares parts of Launch's proposal to the Legislature and Governor about ways to incentivize and improve one of our most valued professions.
We had an opportunity to speak with Susan Baskett, Anupam Chugh Sidhu and Holly Spencer, who are serving on the MASB Board of Directors in the Member At-Large positions that are nominated by the MASB President and approved by the Board to fill representation gaps. They share their background, why they decided to run for their respective school boards and the role they play in MASB leadership.
In our first 2022 episode, we sit down with the executive directors in the Michigan Education Leadership Group and talk about what they anticipate the new year will bring to public education in Michigan.
On this 100th episode of MI SoundBoard, Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE takes a look back at some of his favorite episodes from the podcast:
Nov. 2, 2017 / Are Appointed Boards the Future? Our First Episode!
Feb. 23, 2018 / Blazing a Trail as Michigan Teacher of the Year
Sept. 13, 2019 / Banning Phones: One School District's Story
July 24, 2020 / Flipping the Script
Aug. 7, 2020 / Moving Equity Forward
In this episode, we get a chance to talk with the newest Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dania Bazzi, Ph.D. from Ferndale Public Schools, about her path to being recognized along with her collaborative, hands-on approaches to teacher evaluation and creating a trusting, risk-taking staff team to improve student achievement.
As district leaders, we use data in countless ways. The connections we make (or fail to make) affect the way we think and feel about that data. In this episode, we spoke with Kenda Lawson, M.Ed., Founder/CEO of Owls Education, about how using data in the right ways can influence how our students learn for the better.
As leaders in their district, school board members face many challenges. We talk with Colonel Arthur Athens, who will be presenting at MASB’s Annual Leadership Conference next month, about his storied career and his thoughts on leading ethically, humbly, confidently and, to some extent, with love.
Staff in districts around the state have taken on more and more ways of supporting their students inside and outside of the classroom, but what if they didn’t have to handle those extra lifts? Mallory DePrekel, M.N.M., Executive Director and President of Communities In Schools Michigan, joins us on this episode to talk about how CIS Michigan can help with student needs.
Joining us on this episode is Deputy Executive Director Bob Dwan, CFO, SFO from the Michigan School Business Officials to talk with MASB Executive Director, Don Wotruba on the importance of having talented business officials in your district administration, but also knowing a board member’s role when it comes to budgeting.
In this episode, MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba talks about what can be done to address the stresses our teachers face and ways to change the negative cultural perspective of this field of work. Joining him is Rebekah Schipper, Executive Director of Opportunity Thrive, an organization aimed at helping develop teachers and solving burnout.
Mark Uyl, Executive Director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association, joins us on this episode where we reflect on how COVID-19 impacted high school athletics and what the hopes and goals are for the coming year.
MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE talks with 2021-2022 Michigan Teacher of the Year Leah Porter from Holt Public Schools on a wide range of topics, including her focus on the importance of equity and accessibility in today’s classroom.
How can hybrid, online or face-to-face learning best serve the needs of Michigan students? In this episode, we are joined by leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals and Michigan School Business Officials to reflect on lessons learned over the past year and discuss what the school year ahead may look like.
How far should districts go in the early childhood space? We sit down with Edward Manuszak, Superintendent of Dundee Community Schools, who has made this a focus for his district and those in Monroe County through programs, grants, involvement with national organizations and more.
What are ways school districts can spend the large amount of federal funds that have been approved, as well as what are realistic expectations and outcomes? We talk with Kyle Guerrant, Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Operations at the Michigan Department of Education, about the possibilities.
Now that the Student Recovery Advisory Council of Michigan has shared its recommendations, we sit down again with Chair Kevin Polston, Ed.S., also the Superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools, to talk through the MI Blueprint for Comprehensive Student Recovery.
This past school year has been like no other and its impact has carried over, both planned and unplanned, to the top administrative position in some districts. Hear from MASB's Executive Search Service staff—Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed. and Jay Bennett, M.Ed.—about what’s happening in the field, recent trends and more related to superintendent positions in Michigan.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated and brought more clarity around the equity issues faced by schools across the country. Verjeana McCotter-Jacobs, Esq., Chief Transformation Officer at the National School Boards Association, talks with us about what our society’s responsibilities are to children to ensure they are seen and heard, as well as provide them with the resources they need to be global citizens. Additionally, some reflections on the role school boards play and the tools NSBA provides to help move these conversations forward.
In this episode, we learn more about Michigan’s new Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and how it will help shape future elections in our state. To help educate us on this topic, we speak with Commissioner Rebecca Szetela, Vice Chair of the MICRC.
Cybersecurity for any organization, but specifically school districts, is an area of growing concern. In this episode, we talk with SET SEG's Steve Privasky about ransomware, other cybersecurity threats and precautions school districts can take to protect from these attacks.
In this episode, Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE and Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith talk with Chip Slaven, Chief Advocacy Officer for the National School Boards Association, and get an in-depth view of what's happening policy- and legislation-wise in Washington, D.C. as well as the latest from NSBA, including details about this year's Advocacy Institute.
As students transition back to school buildings this spring and next fall there are many factors to take into consideration for their health and well-being. In this episode, we talk with Brandy Johnson, Education Workforce Policy Advisor for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Kevin Polston, superintendent of Godfrey-Lee Public Schools and chair of the Student Recovery Advisory Council.
In this episode, we are joined by Beth Bullion, Director of the Office of Education for the Michigan State Budget Office and MASB's Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith. We continue the dialogue around budget and what schools can expect from this perspective for the year ahead.
We sit down and discuss Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's latest budget, how that might impact public education, our 2021-2022 Legislative Priorities and other predictions in this episode of MI SoundBoard with MASB Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith.
Michigan State University Extension aims to help people improve their lives. The Children and Youth Institute within MSU Extension is focused on programming for those from birth to age 19, including Michigan 4-H. In this episode we sit down with two of CYI's leadership to discuss resources for students and schools in Michigan, whether they're in a hybrid or fully remote environment.
We kick off the New Year with leaders from the Michigan Education Leadership Group, which includes the Michigan Association of Superintendents & Administrators, Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals and Michigan School Business Officials for a roundtable discussion on trends, forecasts, the state of public education and much more.
When Oak Park School District teacher Owen Bondono received the phone call letting him know that he was named 2020 Michigan Teacher of the Year, he was speechless. In this episode, Owen joins us to talk about the selection process, the school district in which he works, COVID-19 and much more.
Who is the Michigan Department of Education? What is the role of the State Board of Education? With many new board members taking their seats in January we speak with State Board of Education President Casandra Ulbrich, Ph.D., (D-Dearborn) to talk about all of this and more.
The federal regulations put in place by Title IX are about more than just sports. How do the changes that went into effect in August 2020 affect school districts? What are the steps that should be taken to protect students, employees and the district itself particularly when it comes to sexual harassment? We cover all of this and more in a conversation with MASB's veteran legal counsel.
MASB estimates that several hundred newly elected Michigan school board members will take their seats as a result of the November election. What does this look like for recruitment efforts—what worked and what didn't? How can districts onboard and orient these new additions to their governance team? We sit down with two veteran board members in this episode of MI SoundBoard to chat about all of this and more!
The collective belief systems, values and behaviors of the school community will have a major impact on the success or failure of a district's improvement journey. In this episode, we talk with Anthony Muhammad, Ph.D., 2020 MASB Annual Leadership Conference speaker about how to create a healthy school district culture.
This year, our country has been forced to reckon with centuries of social injustice and racism. But where do we get to work to make change? In this episode, we chat with 2020 MASB Annual Leadership Conference keynote speaker Dominique Smith, Ed.D., to dive deeper into creating an equitable and excellent schooling experience.
Want to hear more from Dominique? Register for the first-ever fully virtual and fully free for MASB member districts Annual Leadership Conference here.
Teachers have a challenging task under normal circumstances. We wanted to provide another public education perspective during this unusual year of new teaching environments and constant uncertainty. In this episode, we chat with AFT Michigan Vice President David Hecker to discuss all this and more in ensuring the health and safety of Michigan students.
Fall is just around the corner and back-to-school season is here for Michigan districts. In this episode, we talk to public education leaders from two districts to share what their districts are doing this fall, what they've learned, what is going well and other details that might be helpful to fellow districts in these unusual times.
Transition at any time comes with nuances. Add a global pandemic along with the need to conduct most business and correspondence virtually and you get a sense of the additional hurdles Tina Kerr, Ph.D. has been managing in the transition to her new role as Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators. While she is no stranger to MASA or the public education world, we sit down and discuss her background, what challenges lie ahead for public education and much more.
Amidst the pandemic, heightened incidents of inequities and systemic racism across the country have started a conversation that seems less of a moment and more of a permanent movement. How can schools ensure they're moving equity forward within their district so all students have the ability to succeed? We sit down with two public education leaders from Lakeview School District which has been doing work in this space for nearly a decade.
MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba is no stranger to interviewing guests of MI SoundBoard. But what happens when the script is flipped and he's put in the hot seat? What about when the one doing the interviewing is none other than his daughter? Tune in to this special episode to hear what happens when we did just that.
It's no question the upcoming school year, even more than others, is going to be critical for public education. In this episode, we talk about MASB's Get On Board MI campaign which focuses on recruiting civic-minded and student-focused individuals to run for school board seats in Michigan. You'll hear about tips, resources and much more on how to #GetOnBoardMI.
Over the past few months, we've talked to policymakers and education leaders from across the state since COVID-19 struck. But how have students coped with the historic pandemic and its impact on their education? In this special episode we talk with five Michigan high school students about exactly that.
In this episode, leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, Michigan School Business Officials and Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals join host Don Wotruba once again to discuss current hot topics in public education.
SET SEG Executive Director Tim Averill joins us for this episode to discuss what they're doing for schools in Michigan. He and MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE look at the benefits of being a SET SEG school district, as well as the history of the organization as it strives to meet the needs of school districts across the state.
Debbie Stabenow was the first woman from Michigan elected to the U.S. Senate in 2000. Sen. Stabenow joins us for this special edition episode to discuss what's happening in D.C. in response to the coronavirus, what we can expect in Michigan and across the country, and much more.
What is it like to lead when a national pandemic strikes? What is it like to prepare to lead during a national pandemic? The current President and President-Elect of MASB join us to discuss this as well some of the initiatives they're overseeing and will continue to prioritize for school board members across the state.
Teachers and administrators aren't the only ones that can benefit from being trauma-informed. Dean Transportation, one of the nation's largest private school bus companies, has invested in ensuring its drivers are well-trained in empathy for their riders. In this episode, leaders from Dean Transportation join us to discuss in detail this training and some background to how it came to be.
Culture, to many people, boils down to be defined by skin color, as guest Marcy Peake explains in this episode. As you'll hear, Peake's definition encourages everyone to move the idea of culture from a telescopic lens to a microscopic one. We dive into the idea that the meaning of culture is how we live, love, work and play.
In this episode, MASB's Executive Director sits down with Legal Counsel Brad Banasik, J.D. and Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith to discuss how the coronavirus has impacted public schools in Michigan and operations for boards of education both legally and legislatively. While things are changing nearly every day, this episode provides some answers and guidance to education leaders across the state.
For more resources, timely updates and other information regarding COVID-19, please visit masb.org/COVID19.
We all strive for students to have an accessible and equitable public education. However, we also want to ensure they go beyond K-12 education and complete some form of postsecondary education. We sit down with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Policy Advisor for Postsecondary Education and Workforce Development to talk about how policies statewide are helping kids in Michigan aim higher.
Research has shown zero tolerance policies in schools contribute to high rates of suspension, especially for minority populations.1 Restorative justice is a conflict management approach that focuses on healing rather than punishment. In this episode, we talk with the Michigan Department of Education's Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Operations Kyle Guerrant to further unpack these philosophies, principles and practices.
1American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, 2009, p. 23; Advancement Project, 2010; US DOE, Office of Civil Rights, 2014
Term limits change the dynamics of politics, especially when it comes to building relationships with lawmakers. In this episode, we sit down with Rep. Aaron Miller, R-Sturgis, who chairs the appropriations subcommittees for the Department of Education and the School Aid Fund to talk about term limits, K-12 funding and much more.
The new year is well underway, the Legislative cycle is amping up and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's State of the State is nearing, which all means priorities for the Legislature and funding will (hopefully) be further solidified. In this episode, we sit down with the new Launch Michigan staff to discuss what Phase I includes in hopes of shifting public education in Michigan by way of this historic coalition of business, education and philanthropic communities.
Each individual student may learn at a slightly different pace than their peers. How is one school district in Michigan embracing a style of education that delivers personalized learning? In this episode, we sit down with Alpena Public Schools Superintendent John VanWagoner to unpack competency-based learning for listeners.
Efforts toward a more diverse central office, prioritizing the whole child, retirement announcements and much more is what listeners can expect from this episode as leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, Michigan School Business Officials and Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals join host Don Wotruba for a dialogue on public education in Michigan.
If employees aren't engaged (and according to Gallup, it's around 70% that don't feel engaged), they can't make a difference for those they work for or on behalf of on a day-to-day basis. But, how do we change that? Josh Schneider, Author and Founder, The Millennial & Employee Engagement Institute, joins us to discuss creating meaning in the role in which we spend such a significant amount of time.
At the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) they define social-emotional learning as a process in which both youth and adults acquire and develop their social and emotional competencies. In this episode, we talk with CASEL's Director of Policy and Practice on what systemic SEL looks like in a school system.
For today's students, school athletics look a little different than what past generations have experienced. What challenges is this causing and what new trends have emerged? We sit down with the Michigan High School Athletic Association Executive Director to discuss this and more.
Superintendents face a lot of challenges, including building a strong relationship with their board of education. We sit down with Michigan's 2018-2019 Superintendent of the Year to look at what goes into being an effective superintendent and how relationships play an integral part in achieving such a goal.
The passage of Proposal A 25 years ago shifted control of funding for public schools in Michigan. As a result, Michigan ranks dead last in state education funding. We sit down with an author of Michigan State University's 2019 Education Policy Report and discuss the crossroads at which our state currently finds itself.
Show notes:
- Read the report here
- View the report summary infographic here
Prior to stepping into the role of Michigan's new state superintendent of public instruction, Dr. Michael Rice served as superintendent for Kalamazoo Public Schools. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rice to talk about his background, priorities, what lies ahead in public education in Michigan and much more.
The invention of technology has opened many doors and bridged many gaps globally, but how can it affect a student's learning during the school day? We sit down with a superintendent from a Michigan school district that implemented a district-wide cell phone ban.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five high school students are vaping and more than half of them don't think the flavored pods they are using contain nicotine. In this episode, we sit down with a public health consultant at the Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services to dive deeper into this serious issue.
It's something in which we've likely been impacted, but the stigma behind discussing mental health can be weighty. What effects does that have on today's youth? What are the stats when it comes to mental health? We sit down with a representative from the National Alliance on Mental Illness to dive into this topic.
What does being Michigan Teacher of the Year entail? How does one find themselves with this honor? What challenges are teachers facing today? We address all this and more as we sit down with the 2019 Michigan Teacher of the Year, Rochester Community School District's Cara Lougheed.
What national research is available to public schools in Michigan as it relates to segregation, rural schools and more? We connect with Dr. Jinghong Cai from the National School Boards Association Center for Public Education to discuss how this group can serve school districts, as well as what studies are available to help guide decisionmaking.
Interested in learning more?
Head over to centerforpubliceducation.org. You can also view the segregation report and rural schools report mentioned in this episode!
The school budget, mental health, coalitions for public education. These are some of the latest hot topics broadly affecting facets of Michigan's education community. In this episode, leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, Michigan School Business Officials and Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals join host Don Wotruba once again to not only discuss those issues but what is being done collectively to prioritize what's most important: our students.
What lenses should school districts use when it comes to ensuring all students feel supported within their community? Heidi Otero, Director of Communications for the Arizona School Boards Association, joins us to discuss ASBA's equity framework and where school leaders can apply equity in their public education roles.
We sit down with Michigan Rep. Pamela Hornberger, a former teacher and current chair of the House Education Policy Committee. We discuss her priorities in this new Session and how both sides of the aisle will need to work together to craft legislation from a viewpoint that is best for kids, learning and teachers in Michigan.
Where do schools start when it comes to prioritizing student voice in a meaningful way? In this episode, we sit down with SoundOut.org Founder Adam Fletcher to discuss the benefits of engaging students in the work of school boards in a deeper capacity.
Understanding assessments as an essential element for driving continuous improvement can prove troublesome due to years of outside pressure and accountability reform laying negative connotations over the term. Paul Salah, Huron Valley Schools Superintendent, joins us to unpack the purpose of assessments.
Our voice is powerful and the more voices added advocating for public education, even more so. Starting or growing grassroots efforts within our local communities shouldn't feel like a heavy lift. In this episode, we discuss how prioritizing advocacy can be integrated into our daily public education efforts and what resources are available to us!
What is it like overseeing the Policy Department for a state Governor? What resources do school districts have in Michigan when it comes to thinking about their budget, both from a local and statewide level? Emily Laidlaw, Policy Director for Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins us to discuss this and more!
What happens when a broad coalition from business, education and other groups come together to lead change in our education system? Launch Michigan, an unprecedented partnership, aims to do just that. We sit down with two of the coalition's co-chairs to discuss what this means for public education in Michigan.
With 32 years of experience in the education space and current author of the subscription-based Marshall Memo, Kim Marshall lightens the load of busy educators by serving as their "designated reader." In this episode, we were fortunate to sit down with the renowned national expert!
How can education leaders build trust with local media? What changes has journalism seen over the years? Michigan's Senior Capitol Correspondent Tim Skubick joins us to discuss his decades-long career, how journalism has changed, as well as those who interact with media and more!
With midterms past us, along with a somewhat rocky Lame Duck, where does public education stand in the eyes of the Michigan Legislature? What hopes does the new Administration bring with it for schools across the state? Listen in as MASB's Government Relations experts join us for this episode as we look ahead to the rest of 2019 and beyond!
What expertise is needed to run a district food service program? What difficulties come with implementing new nutrition standards in our schools? Two individuals from the School Nutrition Association of Michigan join us this episode to discuss all the ingredients necessary to keep our students energized during the school day.
What would happen if businesses worked and listen more closely to what's taking place in schools, and vice versa? Wendy Larvick, Chief of Staff to the State Superintendent joins us this episode to discuss the Michigan Marshall Plan for Talent—an initiative aiming, in part, to do just that.
What have Michigan public schools done, and what do they still need to do, when it comes to special education and ensuring the success of all students across the state? Scott Koenigsknecht, Ed.D., Deputy Superintendent for the Michigan Department of Education's P-20 Systems and Student Transitions joins us this episode to discuss this and more.
We sit down with MASB Director of Leadership Development & Executive Search Services Donna Oser to discuss recent changes within the Legislature as well as the Michigan Dept. of Education as it relates to the superintendency and what board members and superintendents should know.
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SHOW NOTES:
Contact Information For general certification questions and support on the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS), please e-mail the support desk at MOECSSUPPORT@MICHIGAN.GOV or call the support desk at: 517-373-3310.
Support desk assistance is available Monday - Thursday 8:05 am to noon and 1:05 pm to 4:55 pm.
Please also visit michigan.gov/moecs.
There are many ways literacy development can go wrong—or right—for young children. Dr. Nell Duke, professor at University of Michigan's School of Education, joins us to discuss the state of literacy of today's students, both in Michigan and nationwide. What can we do to move the needle forward for children everywhere?
What are the latest hot topics broadly affecting facets of Michigan's education community? In this episode, leaders from Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, Michigan School Business Officials and Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals join host Don Wotruba once again to discuss not only what those issues are, but what is being done collectively to combat issues to prioritize what's most important: our students.
Midterm elections are just around the corner. What resources do Michigan residents have that provide a nonpartisan view of what to expect when they show up to the polls this November? Craig Thiel from the Citizens Research Council of Michigan joins us to discuss ballot proposals spanning redistricting, voting rights and marijuana legalization.
Gretchen Whitmer, Democratic gubernatorial nominee for the 2018 governor's race, joins us this episode to share education views as they relate to her platform. What's her plan to boost K-12 education in Michigan with limited resources to go around? Tune in to this episode to hear more!
Michigan has some of the lowest vaccination rates in the country. What does that look like from a public education perspective—from school aid penalties, building closures as a result of flu outbreaks and other factors that decreasing vaccination rates affect. Dr. Eden Wells, Chief Medical Executive for the state of Michigan and Nick Lyon, Director of Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services join us to discuss all of this and more.
What things are being done in other states around the country within school districts to address school safety concerns? What resources are lacking here in Michigan and what can be done to address these deficits? John Warner, Emergency Planning Coordinator for the Missouri School Boards Association joins us to discuss all this and more!
Up until around 2010, the impact of childhood trauma wasn't fully understood. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lara Slee, Director of Teaching and Learning for Waverly Community Schools, about what has been done to help children cope, as well as look at what still needs to be done when it comes to research and training surrounding trauma.
The research is clear that if a student comes to school hungry, they are prevented from learning on the level of other students. What isn't so clear is how we ensure kids have adequate food. Michigan Food Bank Council Executive Director Phil Knight joins us in this episode to discuss this very issue and more!
If you're a small business owner you are always on the search for talent. How does long-term educational attainment correlate to meeting the needs of small businesses? In this episode Small Business Association of Michigan President, and former school board member, Rob Fowler joins us to discuss these very topics and more!
In this episode, interim State Superintendent Sheila Alles joins us to talk about her priorities to carry on the late Brian Whiston's fight for public education. With her 40-plus years of public education experience, she's armed and ready to discuss what's to come next from the Michigan Department of Education.
Program proposals are constantly passing through the desks of local school districts. What ones warrant attention over others? In this episode, we sit down with two trainers from the Michigan Integrated Behavior and Learning Support Initiative and talk about early intervention and positive behavior intervention systems. How do school boards play a part in this, and what matters when looking at data related to student success?
What if you have a legislator who just doesn't hear you when it comes to your community's education issues? How can you be the catalyst for change? In this episode, we sit down with Government Relations staff from the Michigan Association of School Boards and Michigan Association of School Administrators to discuss the power of consistent advocacy and engagement in your legislative process.
What does it take to serve on a board of education? MASB staff, all of which who are or have been board members, gather to discuss Michigan's Get On Board campaign geared toward recruiting school board members that are civic-minded and accurately reflect a community. Are you interested in serving on a school board? Do you know someone who is? Tune in to this special edition!
What hot topics are broadly effecting facets of Michigan's education community? In this episode, leaders from Michigan Association of School Administrators (MASA), Michigan School Business Officials (MSBO) and Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) join host Don Wotruba to discuss not only what those issues are, but what is being done collectively to combat issues to prioritize what's most important: our students.
Brandy Johnson, Executive Director for Michigan College Access Network, joins us for this episode to look at how this eight-year-old organization is trying to bridge the gap of the K12 community and postsecondary education opportunities (and what is included as an option for students). Right now, Michigan holds around 44% educational attainment. We need to be around 60-70% to meet the labor demands of the market. Listen to find what me must start prioritizing to make that a reality!
Ron French, reporter for Michigan's award-winning Bridge Magazine joins MASB for this episode to discuss possibilities to why Michigan didn't make it to the final round of Amazon's second world headquarters and how improved education attainment and workforce retention could have possibly yielded different results. Also in this episode, we cover college access, letter grading and student growth. This and more!
Michigan State Rep. Tim Kelly (R-Saginaw Township) joins us for this episode of MI SoundBoard where we discuss reactions to Gov. Rick Snyder's proposed School Aid budget, term limits, his thoughts on whether we should continue to cut taxes and more!
We sit down with Michigan Teacher of the Year, Luke Wilcox, in this episode of MI SoundBoard. How is education like craft beer? What does the title Teacher of the Year mean? This and more in this episode!
In this episode, we sit down with Tyler Sawher, Senior Strategy Advisor for Education & Career Connections for Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. We dive right in with one of the hottest legislative topic for Michigan schools: concealed carry bills that would allow guns in schools.
Our conversation with Michigan Future Inc. President Lou Glazer continues. Among the topics in this episode, we discuss where recent graduates want to live and what statewide factors influence those choices. This and more on the latest episode!
Michigan Future Inc. President Lou Glazer joins us to discuss the think tank and its work and research around what makes Michigan a leader or laggard when it comes to education, and steps needed to improve the overall success of Michigan. Spoiler: Michigan can do better.
We sit down with Michigan Democratic State Board of Education Co-President Casandra Ulbrich to talk through the dynamic of a split-party State Board of Education, governance within their board as well as public school boards of education and other hot topics.
Kevin Ciak, National School Board Association President, and Georgia School Board Association Executive Director joined us for a panel at our Annual Leadership Conference to discuss Board Governance and what needs to be done to shift the perception of school boards to encourage more interest in filling board seats.