EdLeader: Recent Episodes
Dr. Rob Jackson
Educational Leadership is an ever-evolving opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of students, parents, and the community. Join Dr. Rob Jackson for conversations and reflections on improving Educational Leadership from the Classroom to the Boardroom and beyond.
EdLeader Podcast host Dr. Rob Jackson might just be a closet bibliophile, someone who has a great love of books. Occasionally he enjoys returning to touchstone texts or timeless tomes, those books that shaped him early in his career and life and bringing them forward, spending time again with the words, thoughts, and reflections that moved him then and move him still.
This latest episode is just that, a return to a treasured book. The book, Tuesdays with Morrie, became a runaway bestseller 26 years ago. It was made into a movie and a Broadway play and is said to have changed millions of lives. A successful young man made a series of trips to visit his college professor almost twenty years after graduating. The professor, Morrie Schwartz, was in the final weeks of his life as he was gradually overtaken by ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. The book recounts the fourteen Tuesday visits the young man, Mitch Albom, made, their conversations, Morrie's lectures, and his life experiences. In his final days, the professor taught his student, and all of us how to die, and consequently, how to live.
He said, “The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.”
In this episode, Dr. Jackson is beyond honored and excited to welcome another young man and his mentor to the podcast. They read and shared this book with each other and then shared it with Dr. Jackson. In his hands, it felt familiar, it felt timeless.
Regardless of what day of the week it is as you listen to this, pretend it is Tuesday. Let’s join Morrie and Mitch, and these two guests, let’s imagine opening the worn pages of this beloved book and in Morrie’s words, “Let it come in.”
The professor said, “As long as we can love each other, and remember the feeling of love we had, we can die without ever really going away. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on—in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.” As EdLeaders, you will live on in the hearts of everyone youhave touched and nurtured while you were here.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
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Elijah Jackson on Twitter
Military-connected students and families transition on average 6-9 times in a military child's academic career. Schools should thoughtfully consider how to provide every flexibility possible to ensure that military-connected students have a smooth transition when they arrive and that their unique needs are met while they are with us.
Dr. Angie Mullenix is the Director of Innovative Practices and Programs and the State Military Liaison for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. A veteran herself, Dr. Mullenix leads the state's efforts to recognize schools and school districts for their service to military-connected students and families.
In a time where a war is being fought in the Gaza Strip and in the Ukraine, and understanding the cost that is borne by military personnel and their families, taking some time to consider how schools can support military-connected students and families is time well-spent.
U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said, "Our military-connected students are resilient and know how to grow and thrive in new school environments. To do so, they need the tools and resources that we, as education leaders, must provide to support them in these new environments."
Join Dr. Mullenix and Dr. Jackson as they discuss how EdLeaders and schools may support these students.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
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The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast, has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
So metaphorically, we grab Scarborough’s reading rope and separate the strands of Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Within the Language Comprehension strands, we find the strand that is the topic for today’s episode, Vocabulary.
Building vocabulary knowledge is important to help students be better communicators, help them access more text, and increase their own expressiveness.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
When students graduate from our schools and school systems, where do they go? We hope that they are enrolled, enlisted, or employed. We hope that we have helped them accomplish their dreams and reach their goals. Today’s guest on the EdLeader podcast is focused on meeting students where they are and taking them as far as they want to go.
Dr. Jeff Cox became the 11th President of the North Carolina Community College System on June 1, 2023. Dr. Cox previously served as president of Wilkes Community College for nine years. Prior to that, he served for nine years as the superintendent of the Alleghany County Schools system. Today, he brings his experience working with students from Pre-kindergarten to the university level to lead the North Carolina Community College System, the third largest system in the U.S. serving nearly 600,000 community college students each year with 58 colleges providing education to all 100 counties.
With the unique perspective of having served as a Principal and Superintendent and as a Community College President, Dr. Cox shares his expertise and experience to assist EdLeaders in growing students and schools through building relationships, earning trust, and casting a bold vision.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
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Dr. Jeff Cox on Twitter
Leaders tend to dive into the work and forget about themselves. Later, they find themselves feeling drained, frustrated, and tired. You have heard the clarion calls to prioritize your own self-care. We have also heard that self-care is not selfish. Though important aspects, self-care is more than just exercise and eating well. It is also prioritizing your own growth, continuous learning, building a support network, achieving a work-life balance, and choosing personal joy.
EdLeader host Dr. Rob Jackson welcomes back a close friend, a past guest on this podcast, and one of the most respected educators in the state of North Carolina, Chatham County Schools Superintendent Dr. Tony Jackson! Dr. Jackson shares strategies to sustain in leadership through prioritizing growth and self-care. Being the best you is not being a great leader while being a terrible spouse, parent, sibling, and friend.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
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Dr. Tony Jackson on Twitter
In a world that tips towards negativity and defeatism, EdLeaders have the opportunity to brighten life and sew positivity through Bringing Joy into the schoolhouse and into the lives of students and staff every day. Donna L. Bledsoe, principal of Cedar Ridge Elementary School in Surry County, NC was selected as the 2023 North Carolina State Principal of the Year. She encourages every EdLeader to "Bring the Joy" every day.
Since becoming the leader of the small, rural school in 2016, Ms. Bledsoe has cultivated a community with a clear focus on student success, strong faculty collaboration, and overall school improvement. In her words, the culture of Cedar Ridge Elementary can be summed up in one word: “joy.”
"Bring the joy" is their school mantra, and it’s reflected in all aspects of the school.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
EdLeader Podcast on Twitter
Stephen M. R. Covey is the author of Wall Street Journal #1 Bestseller, Trust and Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others. Joining Dr. Jackson for a truly inspirational conversation, Covey believes that even though our world has changed drastically, our leadership style has not.
Most organizations, teams, schools, and families today still operate from a model of “Command and Control,” focusing on hierarchies and compliance from people. But because of the changing nature of the world, the workforce, the work itself, and the choices we have for where and how to work and live, these old rules of leadership no longer apply. Mr. Covey says that, “truly great leaders can create the right conditions to awaken the potential within a person” and that “they curate conditions in which a person can flourish. As a result, they see that person rise beyond every imaginable expectation.”
The 2023-2024 school year has arrived. For EdLeaders, even in the midst of all of the challenges (budgetary and others), creating and curating conditions where students, teachers, staff, and administrators all “rise beyond every imaginable expectation” is imperative. Creating those conditions occurs through authentic relationships building and deepening trust to inspire all those around us to greater heights.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
EdLeader Podcast on Twitter
Stephen M. R. Covey on Twitter
Previous episodes in the Science of Reading series have focused on the strands of fluency, background knowledge, sight word recognition, verbal reasoning, literacy knowledge, decoding, and language structures. With this episode, we continue deconstructing the reading rope.
Today, Dr. Jackson pulls out the strand of phonological awareness. His guest host for this episode is ChatGPT. ChatGPT is an AI language model developed by OpenAI. Although OpenAI does not claim personal authorship or intellectual property rights, a citation has been included in the Show Notes to attribute the content to the AI system that produced it.
Phonological Awareness refers to the ability to recognize and manipulate the individual sounds, or phonemes, that make up spoken words. This fundamental skill is a powerful predictor of reading success in children. Numerous studies have highlighted its significance in language development and literacy acquisition.
Dr. Jackson has been interested in learning more about ChatGPT and wanted to produce the next episode in the Science of Reading series. This episode is a melding of those two intellectual challenges.
In education, I am surrounded by incredibly caring people who want to make a difference. For years, as an ice breaker in a meeting, an introduction in a presentation, or in an interview question, I have asked the question, ‘Why do you want to be a teacher, a counselor, a principal, a superintendent, or an educator?’
For years, the universal answer has been and is, “I want to make a difference!”
As I think about it, with few exceptions, I can say that my colleagues have each made or are making a profound difference. I can cite countless examples of former students who recount with love and wonder the difference an educator made in their life. I think of my own teachers and even the mentors I have had within the profession who made a difference in my life.
Mahatma Gandhi, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mother Teresa, Sir Winston Churchill, the Reverend Billy Graham, and in our own state of North Carolina, Dr. Dudley Flood and Dr. Gene Causby who were charged with helping schools and communities with the task of bringing civility and goodwill to the school boards, teachers, administrators, parents and most of all the students in the early days of desegregation. They traveled the state bringing fragmented groups to the discussion table for solutions for the schools. It was their wit and courage that defused problems of great magnitude. They like the well-known names I mentioned a moment ago, made a difference.
I wonder though, if any of those I mentioned, have found themselves in moments like I have, in periods of self-doubt, periods where you really wonder if you are making more than a difference in the moment, that you are actually making a lasting difference.
Casting doubt aside and refusing to fall prey to negative self-talk, I search for examples of lasting differences among the tapestry of lives that have been woven together in my career that now spans decades and thousands of lives across dozens of communities. In that reflection, I pause in my rumination to consider the heroes among my mentors and the students I taught early in my career who are now accomplishing their dreams. Among them are doctors, attorneys, teachers, bankers, investors, real estate agents, landscape artists, etc. Beyond career success, I witness them succeeding as friends, spouses, and parents.
My own life bears witness to the lasting difference made by the public school teachers who taught and loved me as a child. My career, now in its latter stages, demonstrates the lasting difference made by the teachers and administrators who took me under their wings and nurtured me as a young teacher and later as a beginning administrator. Perhaps the success of my former students shows the “paying it forward” desire I have always had as an educator. Perhaps it is found in the Instructional Assistants I worked with who are now teachers, or teachers who are now principals, or principals who are now superintendents. Certainly, I can find positive examples of making a difference. What then, can I find in these exemplars of differences made that might just be the keys to making a lasting difference?
From my reflections, I believe that there are two key requirements to making a difference that lasts: intention and attention.
At the start of a new adventure, a new career, a new school year, a new position, a new opportunity, or a new journey, it is important to be able to state in a clear manner the intention of the work.
I know that without the intention at the outset and the attention throughout, I would still be simply talking about what I would like to accomplish instead of actually making a lasting difference.
Intention and attention, powerful tools for any leader, most especially for EdLeaders on the cusp of a brand-new school year.
In the end, only time will tell if we have each made a lasting difference, but I just cannot imagine that we have
Welcome to the 2023 - 2024 school year! It is hard for me to believe that this school year marks the EdLeader podcast’s fifth school year seeking to add value to the work and professional and personal lives of EdLeaders.
Recently I was humbled when the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction selected the EdLeader podcast as a Promising Practice in the state and added it to their collection on the Promising Practices webpage.
The EdLeader podcast community continues to grow worldwide because of your kind words and positive ratings on your favorite podcast player. Thank you for sharing it with your network of colleagues and friends.
There is no question that our ability to successfully help students achieve their potential depends in large part on our ability to recognize and meet the social, emotional, and mental health needs of our students and staff. Equipping ourselves and equipping our teammates for this work is crucial as we prepare for a new school year, a year I believe will be our finest ever.
To launch this school year on EdLeader, I thought it would be appropriate to spend time with an equipper of educators and students. Today’s guest brings a unique background and rich tapestry of experience to this work.
With over 20 years of education and mental health leadership experience, she has the unique lens of both a certified teacher and a licensed clinical therapist specializing in trauma.
After 18 years as a successful high school teacher, she stepped out of the classroom to serve as a social worker and licensed clinician. Her classroom experience coupled with her clinical work with children and families in crisis gives her incredible insight into solving youth mental health problems present in our schools.
She has earned both a Master's Degree in Education and a Master's Degree in Social Work.
She is also the co-author of the book, “Improving School Mental Health: The Thriving School Community Solution,” a global keynote speaker delivering powerful messages of hope to educators, and is the host of the Thriving School Community podcast.
I hope that you enjoy our time together with Ms. Peck. Her simple, yet powerful solutions for making a difference resonate with me, especially when she encourages us to not say to someone that they “should” do something and instead remind them that they “could” do something. I am convinced that turning “should” into “could” would absolutely make a difference in our interactions.
As a new school year arrives, please allow me to thank you for all that you do for every student, every teacher, and every staff member. You are making a difference. If no one else has told you, I want you to know that I believe in you.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
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Charle Peck on Twitter
The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast, has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
So metaphorically, we grab Scarborough’s reading rope and separate the strands of Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Within the Language Comprehension strands, we find the strand that is the topic for today’s episode, Language Structures.
Language structure is made up of a complex set of rules and conventions. Readers have to learn the rules that allow us to communicate with one another through the written word. They develop this knowledge and understanding of Language Structure as they are learning how to read.
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast, has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
So metaphorically, we grab Scarborough’s reading rope and separate the strands of Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Within the Word Recognition strands, we find the strand that most people think of first when considering the act of learning to read, the strand of decoding.
Our good friends at Reading Rockets define decoding this way: “Decoding is the ability to apply your knowledge of letter-sound relationships, including knowledge of letter patterns, to correctly pronounce written words. Understanding these relationships gives children the ability to recognize familiar words quickly and to figure out words they haven't seen before.”
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
Join Dr. Jackson as he seeks to apply his one-word to his personal and professional life through reflecting through the lens of a seminal book in the field of education.
New Year's Resolutions have been around for a while. Over 4,000 years in fact. According to History.com, the Babylonians were the first to make resolutions as they planted their crops, launching a new year. I have no idea how well the Babylonians did with sticking to their resolutions 4,000 years ago, but in modern history at least, it seems that resolutions are discarded and forgotten often before the calendar turns from January to February. Resolutions are lost much quicker than the weight loss that seems to be the focus of many a January First Proclamation of Intention.
In this moment, I choose the same word as my #OneWord2023. My one word for 2023 is elevate.The next step is to begin consideration of the application of my one word. Early on in my one-word journey, I was content to simply reflect on my one word and then commit to continuing to reflect on it as the year went along. I am confident that I did not get the benefit from my one word that I might have. In recent years, I have really made an effort to move from being content to just hanging out in the adoption phase to purposefully and meaningfully moving into an implementation phase.
This brings me to 2023 and my selection of elevate as my one word. How do I elevate my work? How do I elevate our profession? How do I elevate kindness? On a recent run, I found myself pondering this question and found myself reminiscing back to a book I read many years ago, a book first published in 2001. In this Information Age, with writers suggesting that human knowledge is doubling every two years, what could a 22-year-old book possibly have to teach me or anyone else about elevating my work in 2023? Depending on the book, perhaps quite a bit. I’ll let you judge for yourself the timeliness and timelessness of the book’s lessons.
The book I am referring to is the book titled, “Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap …and Others Don’t” by Jim Collins. For me, it is a touchstone text that continues to pop up in random discussions because of the power of the lessons.
Perhaps one of the greatest takeaways from the book and one of the most repeated phrases that I have heard from others is Collins’ assertion that good is the enemy of great. He surmised that few people manage to achieve greatness in their lives as they settle too quickly for a comfortable life. We can probably all name an Edleader who seemed destined for greatness, on the fast track to ever-increasing responsibilities, who just seemed to fizzle out, or who reached a particular level and never moved beyond it. If we are not careful and if we do not actively seek continuous improvement, we stagnate.
The pathway to the principalship is paved with passion, purpose, planning, and practice. Dr. Carrie Tulbert, 2014 North Carolina State Principal of the Year, joins Dr. Jackson to share her journey to the principalship, how she supports Assistant Principals in their professional growth, and strategies for Principals in supporting their teammates in their own leadership journeys.
Dr. Carrie Tulbert is currently in her 13th year as a middle school principal. She has led schools that truly run the gamut of student populations and sizes. A former North Carolina Teaching Fellow, Dr. Tulbert is a graduate of Meredith College with her Bachelor's Degree in English; a Master's Degree in School Administration from Gardner Webb University, and an Educational Specialist degree and Doctoral degree from Wingate University. Her greatest honor is being a mother of 2 sons. She passionately believes in public school and its power to transform students' lives. She also truly believes that being a principal is the BEST job in education! She is the 2014 North Carolina Principal of the Year, and she has served on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals' Association for 5 years.
Dr. Tulbert previously joined Dr. Jackson along with three other State Principals of the Year on a special two-episode mini-series on the EdLeader podcast to discuss recent research on the impact of principals.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
EdLeader Podcast on Twitter
Dr. Carrie Tulbert on Twitter
The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast, has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
So metaphorically, we grab Scarborough’s reading rope and separate the strands of Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Within the Language Comprehension strands, we find the strand of literacy knowledge.
Literacy Knowledge encapsulates the understanding and mastery of print concepts, such as a book’s layout. This includes everything from pre-reading skills like turning pages from right to left, reading words on a page from left to right, and top-to-bottom. It also includes more advanced skills like understanding the text features of a nonfiction book like an index, table of contents, and list of exhibits in order to efficiently find information. It also includes concepts like genre and the author’s purpose.
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
Chris Hadfield, a Canadian astronaut describes leadership this way, “Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It's about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others' success, and then standing back and letting them shine.”
That quote really seems to capture the heart of Coast Guard Captain Jennifer Stockwell, Sector Commander of Coast Guard Sector Virginia. There are not many stakes higher than a person’s life when their boat has capsized or consequences any more intense than when preparing for the impact of a hurricane. Yet, the groundwork she puts in place helps to ensure that the team she leads is ready to respond in those big stressful moments.
Captain Jennifer Stockwell's Command Philosophy is titled, "People first, the rest will follow." She joins Dr. Jackson to discuss how her beliefs about leadership and the role of leadership transcend the organization and is applicable to all leaders, including EdLeaders.
MTSS, or Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, is a framework for school improvement. From selecting materials to planning instructional activities to improving core instruction, to considering interventions for groups and individual students, MTSS guides teachers and administrators to focus clearly on process improvement and effective practices.
Dr. Tanya Turner serves as the Superintendent of the Perquimans County School System and is recognized as an effective and highly regarded instructional leader in the Northeastern Region of North Carolina and across the state. She began her career in education as a fifth-grade teacher prior to serving as an instructional facilitator. She served as a Middle School Assistant Principal, a Director of Teacher Development and Testing, and then served as a Middle School Principal leading school improvement efforts to move from a school that had not met growth in several years to meeting growth eight out of nine years, with seven of those years as high growth. After her successful tenure as a Middle School Principal, she was tapped as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction with Edenton-Chowan Schools for four years before returning to lead the school system she attended as a student.
Dr. Turner's presentations on EVAAS have been recognized at the state level and published on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s regional website as well as the NC STAR website. Her knowledge and leadership in data-driven instruction have afforded her the opportunity to conduct numerous trainings across the state for many school districts. She is a former District Teacher of the Year, District Assistant Principal of the Year, and two-time District Principal of the Year.
Last season, Dr. Turner joined Dr. Jackson on the EdLeader podcast to discuss Literacy as the one big thing in every classroom, every subject, every grade level, and every school.
Dr. Rob Jackson on Twitter
EdLeader Podcast on Twitter
Dr. Tanya Turner on Twitter
The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
So metaphorically, we grab Scarborough’s reading rope and separate the strands of Word Recognition and Language Comprehension. Within the Language Comprehension strands, we find the strand of verbal reasoning.
Verbal reasoning involves thinking about text, solving word problems, following written instructions to come up with a solution, spotting letter sequences, and cracking letter- and number-based codes. Verbal reasoning assessments measure a child’s ability to problem-solve and reason using words. These assessments are more a test of skill than of testing acquired knowledge.
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
The Science of Reading is undergirded by theories of how students learn to read and comprehend text. The theory most often cited is Scarborough's Reading Rope as conceived by Dr. Hollis S. Scarborough. Dr. Scarborough believed that the elements of Word Recognition and the elements of Language Comprehension all weave together into the rope of Reading Comprehension. Just like a true rope, the more strands present and the stronger each strand is, the stronger the rope is. It is surmised that if a student is weaker in one strand, the strength of the other strands can still help the student comprehend what she is reading.
In this new podcast series on the Science of Reading - What Every EdLeader Should Know, Dr. Rob Jackson, host of the EdLeader podcast has one goal, to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Striving readers clearly show visible relief when they encounter a sight word in the middle of a difficult string of words that have to be decoded. Sight Word Recognition, despite the simplistic name of the strand, is a powerful tool in a reader’s toolkit and must be purposefully taught by teachers.
What, then, are sight words? Dr. Cheryl Lyon, a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Connecticut, defined sight words this way, “Sight words are words that students are expected to recognize instantly. With the right support, students can become so familiar with these words that they no longer need to pause and try to decode them.
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
Recently as Dr. Rob Jackson dove headfirst into attempting to understand The Science of Reading, he found himself immersed in The Reading Wars with Whole Language or Balanced Literacy on one side and The Science of Reading on the other. Determined to push through the spirited debates and simply get to what EdLeaders need to know to support the teaching of literacy.
This latest episode in the Science of Reading series focuses on background knowledge, a crucial strand of Language Comprehension. Once a reader has decoded the print into words, reading comprehension requires inferences that are built on background knowledge and not necessarily explicitly stated in the text. As the writers at BrainTrust define it, “Background knowledge is everything a child already knows about a topic prior to engaging in the lesson or activity. So for reading, background knowledge refers to all of the information and understanding that students already have that will help them gain deep meaning from whatever text they are reading.”
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
Show notes are available at: www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
Recently as Dr. Rob Jackson dove headfirst into attempting to understand The Science of Reading, he found himself immersed in The Reading Wars with Whole Language or Balanced Literacy on one side and The Science of Reading on the other. As he researched the divide between the two, he encountered a side skirmish and made himself a note to come back to it. Lost in the vitriol over phonics instruction was the respect given to or denied to fluency as a metric to pay attention to.
At a basic level, fluency is a reader's ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression. If comprehending what they read is the goal, children must be able to read fluently. This is true in reading aloud and in reading silently. In many ways, fluency is the bridge between word recognition and reading comprehension.
Join Dr. Jackson as he attempts to peel apart the individual strands of reading comprehension and build our shared understanding of what EdLeaders need to know about learning to read.
www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
@EdLeaderPod
As an elementary teacher, elementary principal, and as a Superintendent, EdLeader podcast host Dr. Rob Jackson has watched the battle lines drawn and the theories, best practices, and curriculum shaming hurled back and forth in the "Reading Wars." Equating a war with the debate over the best way to teach children to read seems a bit excessive, but a quick glance over the blogs spewing nastiness about the thought-leaders on each side of the debate seems to give rise and credence to the name, "Reading Wars."
On one side is whole-language or balanced literacy, an offshoot of whole language. On the other side is the Science of Reading.
So...
There is a Reading War that has been going on for a really long time and the Science of Reading has taken the upper hand.
But, what is the Science of Reading and what do EdLeaders need to know? Join Dr. Rob Jackson as he crosses the battlefield of the reading wars to share just what you need to know, whether you have a background in teaching children to read or not.
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In this final episode of the EdLeader special series "Leadership Lessons from the GOAT," LockedOn Blue Devils host and lifelong fan, JJ Jackson, joins his Dad one more time to wrap a special season and a special book, "Leading With the Heart" by the GOAT, Coach Mike Krzyzewski. After a recap of the season's final game, JJ and Dr. Jackson share a special story from courtside of another memorable NCAA National Tournament, one that did end with a National Championship. Coach K's final leadership tenets are explored as he reminds us to "Stop the Success Express once in a while to enjoy the journey." Coach K's book and journey as a coach ends with the words, "Please, God, help me do my best, help me be myself, and help me lead with my heart." May we all lead with our hearts.
In Part 2 of an incredible conversation with Stephanie Harvey and Annie Ward, co-authors of From Striving to Thriving and Intervention Reinvention, the rubber hits the road as Stephanie and Annie bring the research alive and give practical advice for making a difference for students. In the conversation in Part 1, they defined “reading volume” and discussed “tabling the labels” that become self-fulfilling prophecies for striving readers. Dr. Jackson highlights the book for its readability and for the depth of research presented in an easily readable format that underpins the work. If nothing else, when a superhero like Dav Pilkey, author of the Captain Underpants books, writes and illustrates the introduction, you know that you are in for fun.
EdLeaders are instructional leaders who are charged with making decisions daily about the teaching and learning taking place in classrooms, schools, and school districts. "Children learn to read by reading and need access to books they want to read; time to read; and loving, knowledgeable teachers who trust them as powerful learners and know how to build on their strengths. An affirming approach rooted in love yields powerful results and turns striving readers into thriving readers." - Stephanie Harvey and Annie Ward, co-authors of From Striving to Thriving and Intervention Reinvention. Stephanie Harvey is co-author of numerous books for teachers, including Strategies that Work, and Inquiry Illuminated. Her many resources co-authored with Anne Goudvis include The Comprehension Toolkit series, Short Nonfiction for American History, and a wide range of classroom videos. An elementary and special education teacher for 18 years, Stephanie currently serves as a literacy consultant to schools and districts around the world. She specializes in comprehension, content literacy, inquiry-based learning, collaboration, striving learners, and the role of passion and wonder in teaching and learning. As a teacher first and foremost, Stephanie relishes learning and savors any time spent in classrooms working with kids.
Annie Ward is Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for the Mamaroneck Public Schools in Westchester County, NY. Prior to that, she was a Local Instructional Superintendent for the New York City Department of Education, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction for the Ridgewood, NJ, Public Schools, and a middle school English teacher. She is in this work every single day and offers practical insight into bringing to scale positive growth in literacy for every single student.
As the amazing poet, Maya Angelou, wrote, “The best part of life is not just surviving, but thriving, with passion and compassion and humor and style and generosity and kindness.” She must have been watching a teacher as she wrote this.
EdLeaders are instructional leaders who are charged with making decisions daily about the teaching and learning taking place in classrooms, schools, and school districts. "Children learn to read by reading and need access to books they want to read; time to read; and loving, knowledgeable teachers who trust them as powerful learners and know how to build on their strengths. An affirming approach rooted in love yields powerful results and turns striving readers into thriving readers." - Stephanie Harvey and Annie Ward, co-authors of From Striving to Thriving and Intervention Reinvention. Stephanie Harvey is co-author of numerous books for teachers, including Strategies that Work, and Inquiry Illuminated. Her many resources co-authored with Anne Goudvis include The Comprehension Toolkit series, Short Nonfiction for American History, and a wide range of classroom videos. An elementary and special education teacher for 18 years, Stephanie currently serves as a literacy consultant to schools and districts around the world. She specializes in comprehension, content literacy, inquiry-based learning, collaboration, striving learners, and the role of passion and wonder in teaching and learning. As a teacher first and foremost, Stephanie relishes learning and savors any time spent in classrooms working with kids.
Annie Ward is Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for the Mamaroneck Public Schools in Westchester County, NY. Prior to that, she was a Local Instructional Superintendent for the New York City Department of Education, Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction for the Ridgewood, NJ, Public Schools, and a middle school English teacher. She is in this work every single day and offers practical insight into bringing to scale positive growth in literacy for every single student.
As the amazing poet, Maya Angelou, wrote, “The best part of life is not just surviving, but thriving, with passion and compassion and humor and style and generosity and kindness.” She must have been watching a teacher as she wrote this.
On this brand-new EdLeader special series, Leadership Lessons from the G.O.A.T., Dr. Rob Jackson is joined by his son JJ Jackson, host of the Locked On Blue Devils podcast and the daily radio show SportsCall Auburn, as well as a Division 1 radio and television play-by-play announcer. Together, they delve into Coach K's book, Leading with the Heart, to share the leadership lessons of the basketball coach considered to be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time!)
In this episode, Dr. Jackson and JJ discuss Coach K's leadership in guiding the Blue Devils to his thirteenth Final Four. Following a tournament run through the West, a region the Blue Devils had never won on the way to a Final Four, facing college basketball's strongest defenses this year, Duke punched their ticket to New Orleans. Coach K said, "Game Day is not a time for long, drawn-out speeches. It is a time for interaction. Interacting with Coach K's writing and current season success, JJ and Dr. Jackson pull out leadership tenets ready for each of us to employ in our work.
Coach K has served as the head men's basketball coach at Duke University since 1980, where he has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Division I titles, 13 Final Fours, 15 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, and 12 ACC regular-season titles. Coach K has also coached the US men's national basketball team to three gold medals and served as the head coach of the American team that won two FIBA World Cup gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best college basketball coaches of all time.
Children who were born during the years from 1901 to 1927 would become known as the Greatest Generation. Theirs was an era marked by war and economic depression. They would endure the Spanish Flu pandemic from 1918 to 1920 and yet through all of the challenges and adversity, they developed values of personal responsibility, duty, honor, and faith. These characteristics helped them to defeat Hitler, build the American economy, make incredible advances in science and implement visionary programs like Medicare. At every stage of their lives, they were part of historic challenges and achievements of a magnitude the world had never before witnessed.
The students in our schools today were born 100 years after the Greatest Generation and have arguably endured similar challenges. The Covid-19 pandemic, the War in Iraq, and the global ramifications of the current war in Ukraine have shaped their young lives just as they did their forebears a century ago. Are we witnessing the return of the greatest generation? Will the students of today lead us forward into a Golden Age?
As we begin to move through what we hope is the final stages of this pandemic, we have an incredible opportunity to ask ourselves, What have we learned? What is now possible?
Dr. John Bryant began his career in education serving for eight years as a high school English teacher. After four years as a High School Assistant Principal, he served for three years as an Elementary School Principal. Following six years in Central Services, he was named as the Superintendent of the Henderson County Public School system in December 2020.
In the book "The Greatest Generation," American Journalist Tom Brokaw argues that the Greatest Generation's perseverance through difficult times is a testament to their extraordinary character. Their remarkable actions, during times of war and peace, ultimately made the United States a better place in which to live. As EdLeaders, we have the opportunity to equip and support our students as they prepare to lead us forward into what will be.
On this brand-new EdLeader special series, Leadership Lessons from the G.O.A.T., Dr. Rob Jackson is joined by his son JJ Jackson, host of the Locked On Blue Devils podcast and the daily radio show SportsCall Auburn, as well as a Division 1 radio and television play-by-play announcer. Together, they delve into Coach K's book, Leading with the Heart, to share the leadership lessons of the basketball coach considered to be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time!)
In this episode, Dr. Jackson and JJ discuss Coach K's encouragement for leaders to focus on the task at hand. With an update on Coach K's final season following the ACC Tournament, the lessons come alive in the context of the current season and flashbacks to the 1990 season where Duke lost in the championship game by the largest margin ever only to come back the next year to win the National Championship.
Coach K has served as the head men's basketball coach at Duke University since 1980, where he has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Division I titles, 12 Final Fours, 15 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, and 12 ACC regular-season titles. Coach K has also coached the US men's national basketball team to three gold medals and served as the head coach of the American team that won two FIBA World Cup gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best college basketball coaches of all time.
On this much-anticipated episode of the EdLeader podcast, Dr. Jackson is joined by Steve Pemberton, the author of the books “A Chance in the World” and “The Lighthouse Effect.” The first book, an autobiography, was made into a major motion picture, sharing the remarkable story of his life. The title of his book comes from a note left by a babysitter who wrote of him as a toddler: “This little boy doesn’t have a chance in the world.”
Soon after, at age 3, Pemberton was taken away from his mother, who was an alcoholic and placed with foster parents, who abused him for the next 13 years. That family trauma went back three generations. His mother was raised by an alcoholic father. His paternal grandmother died at 40 leaving 13 children orphans. No one knew what to do with his father so he was placed in a juvenile detention center. Steve was the third generation to be orphaned.
Mr. Pemberton defied the early prediction that he did not have a chance in the world. The native of New Bedford, Massachusetts went on to graduate from college, showed corporations how to diversify their workforces, broke the cycle of family trauma by raising three adult children with his wife of many years, and eventually authored the book that propelled him into national acclaim.
He is now a Best Selling Author, Philanthropist, Acclaimed Speaker, and Senior Level Executive. He achieved all this through the guidance of “lighthouses,” those people who stepped up and helped him despite what seemed as his poor prospects. He calls on each of us to be human lighthouses like those he introduces us to through his books. As he says, “Let your life be a lighthouse. There are so many lives out there that need the power and the gift of your example.”
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The role of a school counselor has evolved over time. From providing vocational guidance to some students in the early 1900's to providing more comprehensive, collaborative programs based on identified needs and inclusive of prevention and early intervention services for every student in career, academic, and social-emotional growth and skills, modern school counselors have important roles serving students and families as members of student support teams. On this latest episode of the EdLeader podcast, Dr. Jackson is joined by Brittany Norman, President of the North Carolina School Counselor Association, to discuss the comprehensive role of school counselors, including their important role as Purveyors of Hope.
Brittany Norman is a professional school counselor. She has spent the majority of her career serving military students and families in the Onslow County School System which is home to USMC Camp Lejeune. She has worked to provide students with the knowledge and skills to be healthy and successful in the 21st century. Brittany has served on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina School Counseling Association for several years and currently serves as President of the association. Brittany completed her M.S in Counselor Education as well as Master of School Administration at East Carolina University. She frequently presents on school counseling practice and leadership.
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On this brand-new EdLeader special series, Leadership Lessons from the G.O.A.T., Dr. Rob Jackson is joined by his son JJ Jackson, host of the Locked On Blue Devils podcast and the daily radio show SportsCall Auburn, as well as Division 1 radio and television play-by-play announcer. Together, they delve into Coach K's book, Leading with the Heart, to share the leadership lessons of the basketball coach considered to be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time!)
In this episode, Dr. Jackson and JJ discuss Coach K's strategies for growing leaders. With stories about Christian Laettner, Steve Wojciechowski, Wendell Moore Jr., and AJ Griffin to illustrate Coach K's teachings, this is an episode you do not want to miss.
Coach K has served as the head men's basketball coach at Duke University since 1980, where he has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Division I titles, 12 Final Fours, 15 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, and 12 ACC regular-season titles. Coach K has also coached the US men's national basketball team to three gold medals and served as the head coach of the American team that won two FIBA World Cup gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best college basketball coaches of all time.
The EdLeader podcast is back as Dr. Jackson sits down with Mrs. Mollie Mayse to discuss the role of School Psychologists. In a time when the need to support the social, emotional, and mental health of students is more recognized than ever, School Psychologists are called upon for sage advice and wise counsel as they serve alongside educators. Working directly with students, families, and school support team members, school psychologists serve a vital role.
Mollie Mayse is a 16-year veteran School Psychologist serving in the Carteret County Public School system. She earned both her Master of Arts degree in School Psychology and her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University. Mrs. Mayse says that her biggest assets and the "best" psychology" training she has ever received are her three sons, an eighth-grader, a sixth-grader, and a first-grader, and her husband, a Director of Admissions at a Rehabilitation Center.
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On this brand-new EdLeader special series, Leadership Lessons from the G.O.A.T., Dr. Rob Jackson is joined by his son JJ Jackson, host of the Locked On Blue Devils podcast, host of the daily radio show SportsCall Auburn, and Division 1 radio and television play-by-play announcer. Together, they delve into Coach K's book, Leading with the Heart, to share the leadership lessons of the basketball coach considered to be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time!)
In this episode, Dr. Jackson and JJ discuss Coach K's tenet that we need to give others our time and attention.
Coach K has served as the head men's basketball coach at Duke University since 1980, where he has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Division I titles, 12 Final Fours, 15 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, and 12 ACC regular-season titles. Coach K has also coached the US men's national basketball team to three gold medals and served as the head coach of the American team that won two FIBA World Cup gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best college basketball coaches of all time.
On this brand-new EdLeader special series, Leadership Lessons from the GOAT, Dr. Rob Jackson is joined by his son JJ Jackson, host of the Locked On Blue Devils podcast, host of the daily radio show SportsCall Auburn, and Division 1 radio and television play-by-play announcer. Together, they delve into Coach K's book, Leading with the Heart, to share the leadership lessons of the basketball coach considered to be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time!)
Coach K has served as the head men's basketball coach at Duke University since 1980, where he has led the Blue Devils to five NCAA Division I titles, 12 Final Fours, 15 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, and 12 ACC regular-season titles. Coach K has also coached the US men's national basketball team to three gold medals and served as the head coach of the American team that won two FIBA World Cup gold medals. He is widely regarded as one of the best college basketball coaches of all time.
When making her first remarks as the 2021 Wells Fargo North Carolina State Principal of the Year, Dr. Ashburn shared from Amanda Gorman's poem, "The Hill We Climb"
When day comes we step out of the shade,
aflame and unafraid,
the new dawn blooms as we free it.
For there is always light,
if only we're brave enough to see it.
If only we're brave enough to be it.
Joining Dr. Jackson on the latest episode of the EdLeader podcast, Dr. Ashburn challenges and inspires educators to be brave enough to see the possibilities for education post-pandemic and to be brave enough to make it happen.
Dr. Elena Ashburn is the 2021 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year. In making the announcement, North Carolina State Superintendent Catherine Truitt noted that “Elena exemplifies the best qualities of a strong and effective principal. She empowers teachers and staff and creates opportunities for them to grow and learn." Appointed principal of Needham B. Broughton High School in 2017, Dr. Ashburn grew up in southern Virginia and attended Longwood University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor's of English and minor in Spanish. After college, she joined Teach For America and began her career as an English teacher at Southern Durham High School. Dr. Ashburn earned a Master's of School Administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After serving as an assistant principal at Fuquay-Varina High School, Dr. Ashburn became principal of East Garner Magnet Middle School in 2014.
At East Garner, Dr. Ashburn led the school in significantly improving student achievement outcomes, including exceeding expected growth targets for the first time in the school's history, improving the school's letter grade from D to C, and moving the school out of the state-sanctioned low-performing status in 2016.
At Broughton, Dr. Ashburn leads the Leadership Team and school community in the implementation of the Broughton Five Year Strategic Plan, which was created over the course of a full year in 2017. Since implementation, the team has led in affecting meaningful change, including achieving the highest student graduation rate in Broughton's history twice in both 2020 and 2021, increasing 9th grade promotion rate by nearly 50%, and improving teacher retention to its highest rate, with an improvement of nearly 70%.
Dr. Ashburn earned a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2018 and was awarded the Michael Priddy Family Leadership Scholarship & Award for aspiring superintendents from the UNC School of Education the same year. Her dissertation research examined the underrepresentation of women in the superintendency, and in 2019, her research was presented at the annual global Women Leading Education conference in England. In addition to the principalship, Dr. Ashburn serves as a leadership coach for Magnet Schools of America, helping school leaders throughout the country implement magnet school programming in their schools and districts. In 2020, Dr. Ashburn was named the WCPSS Principal of the Year, the North Carolina North Central Region Principal of the Year, and the 2021 North Carolina Wells Fargo Principal of the Year.
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EdLeader is back for Season 3 and it is going to be bigger and better than ever! A big start with a big-time guest is here as Mr. Jack Hoke sits down with Dr. Jackson to discuss launching a new school year in the midst of challenges and uncertainty. Authentic relationships, listening more than you speak, making sure the team has what it needs to succeed, and keeping the main thing the main thing is the secret to a Leadership Launch into an amazing new school year.
Mr. Jack Hoke is one of the most respected and highly-regarded educational leaders in the state of North Carolina. He currently serves as Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association. He retired in April 2012 after serving twelve years as superintendent of the Alexander County Schools. He also served as an associate superintendent for two years in the Alexander County Schools. He previously served as principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels in the Caldwell County Schools and served for 32 years in school administration.
He served as Superintendent Advisor to the North Carolina State Board of Education from 2009 – 2011 and was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Professional Teaching Standards Commission from 2006 – 2010. He was involved in the development of the teacher, principal, and superintendent standards for North Carolina and assisted in the development of the North Carolina Education Evaluation System.
As Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association, he has designed and conducted the professional development programs for superintendents and associate/assistant superintendents including the Next Generation Superintendent Development Program, Aspiring Superintendent Program, Digital Leadership Institute for Superintendents, Future Focused Schools/Emerging Trends Network for NC School Districts, and The NC District Leaders Institute which provides executive coaching for new superintendents.
He was inducted into the Appalachian State University: Reich College of Education Rhododendron Society in 2021, received the Alexander County Schools Award of Honor and Caldwell County Schools Education Hall of Honor Award in 2017. In 2012, he received the state’s highest civilian award when he was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. Twice selected as a Regional Superintendent of the Year, he was selected as the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Superintendent of the Year in 2007.
More importantly than all of the awards and accolades and vast experience, today’s guest is who Superintendents call when they need advice, encouragement, or just a listening ear.
In the book, "Good to Great," Jim Collins highlights the hedgehog concept based on the Greek parable that the fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one thing really well. For Perquimans County Schools Superintendent Dr. Tanya Turner, her hedgehog concept is and always has been the importance of literacy in every classroom and in every grade level. In the newest episode of the EdLeader podcast, Dr. Turner sits down with her former teammate Dr. Rob Jackson to discuss the importance of literacy and the school system's plans to increase the reading proficiency of every student in the school system.
Dr. Turner is recognized as an effective and highly regarded instructional leader in the Northeastern Region of North Carolina and across the state. She began her career in education as a fifth-grade teacher prior to serving as an instructional facilitator. She served as a Middle School Assistant Principal and later moved to a role as the district's Director of Teacher Development and Testing. She then served as a Middle School Principal leading school improvement efforts to move from a school that had not met growth in several years to meeting growth eight out of nine years, with seven of those years as high growth. Through her leadership, she implemented an organizational restructuring which led to the school being designated A School to Watch in 2010 and later being re-designated in 2013. After her successful tenure as a Middle School Principal, she was tapped as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction with Edenton-Chowan Schools.
Dr. Turner's EVAAS presentations have been recognized at the state level and published on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s regional website as well as the NC STAR website. Her knowledge and leadership in data-driven instruction have afforded her the opportunity to conduct numerous EVAAS trainings across the state for many school districts. She is a former District Teacher of the Year, District Assistant Principal of the Year, and two-time District Principal of the Year.
Dr. Turner holds a Masters in Supervision and Administration from East Carolina University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Methodist University. She graduated from the North Carolina Aspiring Superintendent’s Program in 2017 as a member of the program's inaugural cohort.
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In the latest episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson is joined by Dr. Susan Enfield, Superintendent of Highline Public Schools in Burien, Washington. Dr. Enfield has served as the Superintendent of Highline since 2012, shepherding in outstanding student and staff success. In Highline Public Schools, the Graduation Rate has grown from 62.3% in 2013 to 83.8% in 2020. Central to the work of the district is the Highline Promise.
Knowing every student by name, strength, and need is the promise of Highline Public Schools. Under the leadership of Superintendent Susan Enfield, the district is implementing the second phase of its strategic plan committed to the academic and social-emotional growth of all students so they graduate prepared for the future they choose.
Dr. Enfield was selected as the AASA 2020 Women in Leadership Superintendent Award winner.
A high school English, journalism, and ELL teacher, Susan served as Chief Academic Officer and then as Interim Superintendent for Seattle Public Schools before coming to Highline in 2012. She previously held leadership positions in Evergreen Public Schools (Vancouver, WA), Portland Public Schools, and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
Susan is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, and earned master’s degrees from Stanford University and Harvard University. She also holds a doctoral degree in Administration, Planning, and Social Policy from Harvard’s Urban Superintendents Program.
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In Part II of this special two-part EdLeader series on the Effect of Principals, Dr. Jackson sits down with fellow former State Principals of the Year to review the recently released Wallace Foundation Report, "How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research." The researchers found that "an effective principal’s impact is stronger and broader than previously thought, making it “difficult to envision” a higher return on investment in K-12 education than the cultivation of high-quality school leadership, according to this research synthesis."
In a previous episode, Dr. Jackson spoke with Dr. Anna Egalite, coauthor of the Wallace Foundation Report on how principals affect students and schools, to delve into the research from the researcher's point of view. This time, skilled practitioners dig into the study's findings and find much that resonates with their practice.
Ms. Kisha Clemons is the 2020 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year. She is currently the principal at Shuford Elementary in Newton-Conover City Schools and a doctoral student in the Educational Leadership Department at UNC-Greensboro.
Dr. Carrie Tulbert is currently in her 11th year as a middle school principal. She is the 2014 North Carolina Principal of the Year. Carrie is a graduate of Wingate University with her Ed.S and Ed.D.
Mr. Tabari Wallace earned a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation from East Carolina University. In 2018, he was named North Carolina’s Principal of the Year. He was a recent guest on the Ellen show and is a passionate educator.
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How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research by Dr. Jason A. Grissom, Vanderbilt University; Dr. Anna J. Egalite, North Carolina State University; and Dr. Constance A. Lindsay, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Summary of Key Findings - How Principals Affect Students and Schools
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Effective principals are at least as important for student achievement as previous reports have concluded—and in fact, their importance may not have been stated strongly enough.
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Principals have substantively important effects that extend beyond student achievement.
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Effective principals orient their practice toward instructionally-focused interactions with teachers, building a productive school climate, facilitating collaboration and professional learning communities, and strategic personnel and resource management processes.
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Principals must develop an equity lens, particularly as they are called on to meet the needs of growing numbers of marginalized students.
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Effective principals are not equitably distributed across schools.
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Principals are becoming more racially and ethnically diverse, but representation gaps with students are growing, which is concerning, given the payoffs to principal diversity.
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Research on school principals is highly variable, and the field requires new investment in a rigorous, cohesive body of research. (as summarized by the NCDPI Weekly Top Ten)
In the latest episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with fellow former State Principals of the Year to review the recently released Wallace Foundation Report, "How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research." The researchers found that "an effective principal’s impact is stronger and broader than previously thought, making it “difficult to envision” a higher return on investment in K-12 education than the cultivation of high-quality school leadership, according to this research synthesis."
In a previous episode, Dr. Jackson spoke with Dr. Anna Egalite, coauthor of the Wallace Foundation Report on how principals affect students and schools, to delve into the research from the researcher's point of view. This time, skilled practitioners dig into the study's findings and find much that resonates with their practice.
Ms. Kisha Clemons is the 2020 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year. She is currently the principal at Shuford Elementary in Newton-Conover City Schools and a doctoral student in the Educational Leadership Department at UNC-Greensboro. She is a North Carolina Principal Fellow and North Carolina Teaching Fellow alumnus from Appalachian State University. Under her leadership, Shuford Elementary has been selected as a National Title I Distinguished School and recognized for its work with personalized learning. Ms. Clemons’ personal vision is to inspire greatness in others and she is proud to be a champion for her students, staff, and community.
Dr. Carrie Tulbert is currently in her 11th year as a middle school principal. She is the 2014 North Carolina Principal of the Year. She has led schools that truly run the gamut of student populations and sizes. She is approaching her 20th year in education. She's proud to be a North Carolina Teaching Fellow. Carrie is a graduate of Meredith College with her BA in English; Gardner Webb University with her MSA; and Wingate University with her Ed.S and Ed.D. Her greatest honor is being a mother of 2 sons, her most important "students," She passionately believes in public school and its power to transform students' lives. She also truly believes that being a principal is the BEST job in education!
In the 1990s, Tabari Wallace aspired to a career in the NFL. With his long-held dream and his future at stake, he paid a visit to East Carolina University, where he was offered a walk-on spot on the team at ECU. He eventually earned a full scholarship and a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation. His football career continued after college, but it competed with a new passion: teaching. He turned all of his attention to education and rose quickly through the ranks of public school to be promoted to his first assistant principalship in 2003. In 2018, he was named North Carolina’s Principal of the Year. He was a recent guest on the Ellen show and is a passionate educator.
With a panel of North Carolina State Principals of the Year and exciting new research on the importance of the principal on student achievement, this is going to be great!
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In the latest episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with 6th Grade Science Teacher Mr. Christopher Murray to discuss authentic student relationships. Recently, when the principal announced that Mr. Murray was recognized for Excellence in Teaching, the entire sixth grade erupted in enthusiastic excitement for their beloved teacher. From holding doors for students to saying 'Yes, ma'am' and 'Yes sir' to adolescents, Mr. Murray treats students, even those he doesn't personally teach, with the same respect he treats everyone else. His authentic respect for students results in authentic relationships with them as well.
Mr. Christopher Murray is a 6th grade Science Teacher at Broad Creek Middle School who also helps to coach the boys' basketball team. He earned his Bachelors in Middle Grades Education at East Carolina University. Mr. Murray teaches in the same classrooms that he attended and learned in 20 years ago. He has dedicated his achievements to his mother and father, who gave him a strong work ethic and determination that still drives him daily. Mr. Murray strives to help every student and wants each and everyone to receive the greatest education they possibly can. He also wants every student that he teaches to enjoy school.
For the latest episode of the Edleader podcast, Dr. Jackson is joined by two outstanding EdLeaders who are making a difference serving and supporting schools and school systems in their implementation of Multi-tier Systems of Support. But what is MTSS and what is it not? As a framework used by many schools to improve core instruction and provide targeted support to struggling students, it focuses on the “whole child.” MTSS supports academic growth and achievement, but it also supports many other areas, including behavior, social and emotional needs, and absenteeism.
Mrs. BriAnne Hall serves the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as the Integrated Academic and Behavior Systems Consultant for the Northwest Region of North Carolina. She is a passionate educator who enjoys her role of supporting districts in their implementation of an MTSS framework to promote total school improvement to maximize growth for all. With her background in mental health, exceptional children’s programming, and K-12 education, she is a strong advocate for integrated systems to support the needs of the whole child. BriAnne earned a bachelor's degree in Human Services and a master's in executive leadership studies from Gardner-Webb University. BriAnne is married to Steve Hall, who is also an educator. Together they enjoy life on the Little River with their two sons, Elliot and Kameron.
Mrs. Heather Boston serves as the Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) services for Carteret County Public Schools. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, she received her M.Ed, and Ed.S degree in School Psychology from Seattle University. Her career in education began as a School Psychologist in Illinois, where she worked for 4 years specializing in Positive Behavioral Interventions in Schools (PBIS), Responsiveness to Instruction (RtI), and Gifted Services prior to moving to North Carolina as a proud military spouse. For the last 10 years, Heather has served in the role of MTSS Coordinator/Director, adding AIG services to her title in 2016. The 2020-2021 school year marks her 17th year working in education. She is proud to serve beside the many great teachers and educators in Carteret County Public Schools and is honored to have 2 children that are a part of the CPPS family!
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On the latest episode of the Edleader podcast, Dr. Jackson is joined by two outstanding Media Specialists who are impacting the lives of students and teachers on a daily basis. Both bring their experiences in the classroom to their work in the Media Center. The flexibility and innovation of Media Specialists Mrs. Emily Golightly and Mrs. Amanda McCall are connecting their Media Centers to students and teachers in new ways and making a difference in the lives of students as readers and learners.
Mrs. Emily Golightly serves as the Media Specialist at Newport Elementary School, a school serving grades Prekindergarten through fifth grade in Newport, NC. A former classroom teacher, she is in her seventeenth year in education. She has taught kindergarten, first, second, and third grades, reading and math intervention, and English to speakers of other languages before becoming a media coordinator. She received her bachelor's degree from East Carolina University in Elementary Education. Mrs. Golightly completed a master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language through UNCW and is currently pursuing a second master's degree in Media and Library Sciences (MLS) through Appalachian State University.
Mrs. Amanda McCall serves as the Media Specialist at Morehead City Primary School, a school serving grades Prekindergarten through third grade in Morehead City, NC. She is also a former classroom teacher and also serving in her seventeenth year in education. She taught 2nd grade for 5 years and 3rd grade for 10 years. She has also served as an Academically-Intellectually Gifted Specialist. She is a Nationally Board Certified Teacher. She graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and is currently attending NC Central University to obtain a Master’s Degree in Library Science.
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In the latest episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Dr. Anna Egalite, coauthor of the recently released Wallace Foundation Report, "How Principals Affect Students and Schools: A Systematic Synthesis of Two Decades of Research." The researchers found that "an effective principal’s impact is stronger and broader than previously thought, making it “difficult to envision” a higher return on investment in K-12 education than the cultivation of high-quality school leadership, according to this research synthesis."
Dr. Anna Egalite has once again been ranked by Education Week’s 2021 RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings as one of the Top 200 education scholars who had the biggest influence on educational practice and policy in 2020. This is the second year that Dr. Egalite has earned this ranking. She was selected from a pool of more than 20,000 qualified scholars to be ranked among the Top 200.
A native of Ireland, Dr. Anna Egalite is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development in the College of Education at North Carolina State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Education Policy from the University of Arkansas, a master's degree in elementary education from the University of Notre Dame, and a bachelor's degree in elementary education and history from St. Patrick's College in Dublin, Ireland. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship in the Program on Education Policy and Governance at Harvard University. In fall 2017, she served as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Public Policy at Duke University.
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In the latest episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Sarah Johnson, an author, speaker, coach, and EdLeader who is dedicated to adding value to others through sharing a message of balance, resiliency, and faith. Sarah is passionate about leadership and developing educators into the best version of themselves to lead at home, work, and life. She says this message is the only thing that would have called her away from the daily work as a school principal.
Mrs. Johnson has been serving in educational leadership in Northwest Wisconsin since 2004, first as an English Teacher and then as a building principal. She is a co-author of Balance Like a Pirate: Going Beyond Work-Life Balance to Ignite Passion and Thrive as an Educator and contributed to Peter DeWitt’s Collaborative Leadership: Six Influences that Matter Most and Adam Welcome’s Run Like a Pirate. She is a state and national conference speaker around topics of balance, resilience, faith and is passionate about amplifying and empowering women through the IN AWE Podcast, which she hosts.
Mrs. Johnson holds an unwavering belief in the importance of the message she shares with audiences and readers of her leadership books about seeking balance, building resiliency, and transforming within their own lives to be the best leaders they can be at home, work, and life.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Dr. Jeff McDaris, Superintendent of the Transylvania Public School System to discuss leadership that lasts. Dr. McDaris promotes leadership through Conversation, Community, and Credibility. Leadership depends on frequent and authentic communication and stands on the strength of the relationships a leader has built throughout the community. Honesty, a caring approach, and compassion lend credibility to a leader's work and allow a leader to sustain in the work.
Dr. Jeff McDaris began his teaching career in 1983 after graduating from NC State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Arts Education. He taught Middle School and coached on the high school level before becoming an administrator in 1998. He is the 2011 Western Carolina University Peak Performer Award Winner and a 2017 recipient of the William and Ida Friday Award from The Friday Institute at NC State University for Innovation.
Dr. McDaris was named the Superintendent of the Transylvania Public School System in 2009 and is now one of the longest-tenured superintendents in the state of North Carolina. A graduate of the school system he now serves, Dr. McDaris has been described as one of the kindest people you will meet.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Ms. Erika Garcia. For over 20 years Ms. Garcia has served as a teacher, teacher-leader, and teacher coach in Missouri. Appropriately described as a Social Media Influencer based on the number of followers she has gained on Twitter, Ms. Garcia uses her social media platform to learn, grow, and document her journey as an educator. She has found real power in connecting with other educators who have taught her much through sharing their experiences and expertise. Armed with a sharp wit, a ready laugh, and a welcoming presence, Ms. Garcia has brought joy and laughter to all around her.
Ms. Garcia believes that human potential is limitless and describes herself as relentless in building relationships, multiplying leadership, and promoting equity. She is a contributor to Education Weekly and Edutopia and is a National Board Certified Teacher.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Dr. Donyall Dickey, Chief Executive Officer of Educational Epiphany, to discuss the critical need to prioritize literacy in all curriculum areas. Dr. Dickey shares that the conceptual understanding of academic language is arguably the most significant accelerator of student achievement. Dr. Dickey’s ideas for school improvement and organizational effectiveness are used to improve the lived schooling experience for children across the nation.
Dr. Donyall Dickey is a nationally recognized authority on curriculum, instruction, organizational development, and administration of schools. He is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Loyola University – Maryland, and George Washington University – D.C., where he earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy and wrote a ground-breaking dissertation on resilience in African American males. Dr. Dickey began his career as a third grade teacher in the Baltimore City Schools before becoming a high school English literature/SAT prep teacher and assistant principal. Dr. Dickey served as a principal in the Howard County Public School System. Unparalleled levels of student achievement and school improvement characterized his career as a site-based, instructional leader, including having led the lowest performing middle school in Howard County to the most significant gains on the Maryland School Assessment, outgaining more than 3,000 schools.
Dr. Dickey served as the Chief Academic Officer of the School District of Philadelphia. Later, Dr. Dickey served students and families in Atlanta as the Chief Schools Officer and Chief Academic Officer of the Atlanta Public Schools. He has authored and published 33 books.
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In the latest episode of the special Leadership Development series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of teamwork. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In the latest episode of the special Leadership Development series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of taking responsibility for leaders. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In the twelfth episode of the special Leadership Development series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of relationships for leaders. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In the eleventh episode of the special Leadership Development series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of character for leaders. Educators are role-models and must authentically live the very character traits they teach. A leader's character is front and center because as Rev. Billy Graham says, "...when character is lost, all is lost." Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper" offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In the tenth episode of the special Leadership Development series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of teachability in being able to have long-term success as a leader. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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Maya Angelou said, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can't practice any other virtue consistently.” In the ninth episode of the special Professional Development Leadership series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of courage and of being a courageous leader in times of crisis. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Dr. Bill Daggett, Founder and Chairman of the International Center for Leadership in Education, to discuss what the future may hold for education post-pandemic and the need for future-focused leaders and schools. Education will rapidly move into more and more personalization of content and delivery. The future success of schools depends on the ability of EdLeaders to be Trailblazers.
For 25 years, Dr. Daggett has crisscrossed our nation, as well as the industrialized world, to lead school reform efforts to effectively prepare students for their future. While an avid supporter of public education, he also challenges all of us to be more focused on our children's future than on maintaining the schools of our youth. Before founding and now serving as Chairman of the International Center for Leadership in Education, Dr. Daggett was a teacher, local administrator, and a director with the New York State Education Department.
He is the creator of the Rigor/Relevance Framework which has recently become the cornerstone of much of the nation's school reform efforts. He is also the author of numerous books about learning and education, textbooks, research reports, and journal articles.
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President John Quincy Adams said, "Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish." In the eighth episode of the special Professional Development Leadership series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of perseverance. Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Marine Corps Colonel Todd Ferry, Deputy Commander of Marine Corps Installations East (MCIEAST) to discuss how leadership is influence regardless of the setting. Charged with helping to lead the efforts to maintain readiness at six Marine Corps Bases following the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic on the East Coast, Colonel Ferry and his team never stopped learning and improving in their steps to keep the bases open and Essential Personnel available. At the same time, as a Dad, Colonel Ferry is supporting his six children in their online education with three children in college and three in the Craven County Public School System.
Colonel Todd Ferry was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant upon graduation from the United States Naval Academy in 1992. He was designated as a Naval Aviator in 1994 and was selected to fly the CH-46E Sea Knight. He served in all three active Marine Aircraft Wings including assignments with both the “Black Knights,” the “White Knights,” the “Flying Tigers” and commanded the “Knightriders” of Marine Medium Helicopter Training Squadron 164. He assumed the duties as the Deputy Commander, MCIEAST in August 2019 after serving as the Commanding Officer of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.
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In this seventh episode of the special Professional Development Leadership series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of practice. Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." Based on the book, "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper offers a weekly leadership reflection for leaders who want to keep growing and improving.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Carteret County Public Schools Teacher of the Year Jody Stouffer to discuss teaching and learning during the ongoing pandemic. An Art Educator and Football Coach, Mr. Stouffer embodies the tenets of being a "Renaissance Man." As he teaches creativity and communication, he encourages flexibility in his students and colleagues.
Coach Stouffer is the current Carteret County Public Schools Teacher of the Year. In his 26th year of teaching, he has been named Teacher of the Year in three schools and District Teacher of the Year twice. He is the former North Carolina Art Education Secondary Art Educator of the Year. Coach Stouffer believes in the importance of the Arts in a well-rounded education.
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In this episode of the special series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of preparation. To light the way for others, you must be prepared when the opportunity arises. Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail."
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Carteret County Public Schools School Nurse Jessica Shearin to discuss the work of helping to keep students, teachers, and staff members safe in schools. Nurse Shearin works tirelessly in helping to keep the White Oak Elementary School family in Cape Carteret, North Carolina safe and healthy. From Wellness Checks at school entrances to reminders about wearing a mask to helping to check that the school is properly disinfected, to contact tracing, School Nurses have seen their responsibilities expand dramatically. Their expertise is being called on as EdLeaders face decisions they have never previously had to make.
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In this episode of the special series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the importance of focus. Every challenge, including the present one, must be approached with a calm, unwavering focus and a determination to light the way for others.
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In this episode of the special series, "Lessons from the Lightkeeper," Dr. Jackson discusses the critical importance of initiative. As it has been said countless times, every journey begins with the first step.
Passion Energizes the Light! It seems that personal energy is at a premium in this time of great challenge. Oprah Winfrey says that, "Passion is energy!" What are you passionate about? In this second Lesson from the Lightkeeper, Dr. Jackson discusses how passion is the first step to achievement, that passion increases willpower and is the foundation of excellence.
Lighthouses have sent out a beacon for centuries to guide mariners to safe harbor. This light represented the difference between reaching safety or floundering on the rocky shoals. As the world contends with a pandemic and societal unrest, schools are sending out a light of hope, of strength, of safety, and of care.
EdLeaders are the lightkeepers, keeping the light shining bright. There is much to learn from the men and women who cared for the lighthouses despite the storms that raged. In this series based on the book "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, Dr. Rob Jackson applies the Maxwell's teachings to strengthen and encourage those who keep the light shining bright from schoolhouses around the world.
https://drrobjackson.blogspot.com/p/lessons-from-lightkeeper.html
Belief Lights the Light! What do you really believe about students and their learning? Beliefs lead to expectations. Expectations lead to achievement. In this first Lesson from the Lightkeeper, Dr. Jackson discusses how our beliefs in the ability and capacity of students, our teammates, our schools, and our leaders become self-fulfilling prophecies.
https://drrobjackson.blogspot.com/p/lessons-from-lightkeeper.html
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Durham Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Pascal Mubenga to discuss transformational leadership. Since being sworn in as superintendent in 2017, the district has seen increases in student academic progress and school performance, as well as improvement in the cohort graduation rate. Most notably, as student results improved, the district's enrollment grew by 500 students in one year, for the first time in four years. Dr. Mubenga works tirelessly in leading the school district to "ignite the limitless potential" of its students.
Dr. Mubenga received his undergraduate degree in Mathematics from Shaw University and a Masters in Secondary Education from Liberty University. He earned a Ph.D. from Capella University. He is serving in his third year as the superintendent for Durham Public Schools in Durham, North Carolina. Previously, he served as the superintendent for the Franklin County Schools in Louisburg, North Carolina.
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Lighthouses have sent out a beacon for centuries to guide mariners to safe harbor. This light represented the difference between reaching safety or floundering on the rocky shoals. As the world contends with a pandemic and societal unrest, schools are sending out a light of hope, of strength, of safety, and of care. EdLeaders are the lightkeepers, keeping the light shining bright. There is much to learn from the men and women who cared for the lighthouses despite the storms that raged. In this series based on the book "Talent is Never Enough" by John Maxwell, Dr. Rob Jackson applies the Maxwell's teachings to strengthen and encourage those who keep the light shining bright from schoolhouses around the world.
www.drrobjackson.com
@Dr_Rob_Jackson
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Lexington County School District One Superintendent Dr. Greg Little to discuss authentic leadership development. Dr. Little shares that leadership development cannot be a one-time event. Instead, it must be a pervasive element in the culture of the school system, the school, and the classroom. Leadership development is not just something you learn in seminars, it also grows through self-reflection and a willingness to accept and act on feedback from others. Dr. Little believes we are stronger together and that together we can achieve our goals and meet our commitments.
Dr. Greg Little is the son of two educators. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a masters and doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is serving in his fifth year as the superintendent for Lexington County School District One in Lexington, South Carolina. Previously, he served as the superintendent for the Mount Airy City Schools in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
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In this episode, Dr. Jackson sits down with 2020-2021 Carteret County Public Schools Principal of the Year to discuss the reopening of schools during the ongoing pandemic. Opening a new school year in 2020 is anything but routine. Literally every process in the school, from how to board buses, to how to walk down the hallway, to the scheduling of instruction, has been drastically changed. For an EdLeader there is no more important responsibility than keeping students and staff members safe. Mrs. Emory is leading her team in accomplishing amazing things in a school that radiates joy and positivity. Teachers are being asked to teach in a hybrid model with some students attending in person and others attending virtually. Despite the challenges, teachers and staff at Beaufort Middle School are charging forward, smiling behind their masks, happy to again welcome students into the classroom.
Mrs. Emory has led her school through incredible academic gains while negotiating major hurricanes in back-to-back years and the tragic death of a student by suicide. The school family has emerged from those challenges stronger than ever and brings that strength to the current challenge.
Mrs. Emory taught Middle School Language Arts and Science prior to becoming an Assistant Principal and then Principal in Wake County Public Schools in Raleigh, NC. In 2017, she joined the Carteret County Public Schools team. She earned her Masters Degree in Educational Administration at NC State University and her undergraduate degree at Gordon College in Massachusetts.
Dedicated to teachers everywhere, for the 21st episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Regional Teacher of the Year Julie Pittman to discuss the importance of teachers giving students a space to feel safe, a space to learn, and a shelter from the storm. This is a time of great unrest in our country as the fear and worry caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing protests against racism and the excessive use of police force leave our children scared and confused as chaos swirls around them. For students, though, there is a shelter from the storm, our teachers and EdLeaders who shine a light of hope, of strength, of safety, and of belief.
Julie Pittman was called to be an educator and community builder. She is a proud public school graduate, and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Speech Communications, as well as a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In 2003, she joined Rutherford County Schools as a high school English teacher at R-S Central High School, and was named the NC Western Region Teacher of the Year. Outside of school, Julie is a wife and a mother of twin daughters, and is also a member of several civic and community groups in Western NC and across the state that support education, women, children, and communities. She thrives on motivating students to find their own voices and roles as citizens of this world, as well as inspiring fellow teachers to grow their skills by expanding their classrooms into the global community. Ultimately, she believes each of us shares a role in supporting and nurturing all students, and thus shaping our collective future.
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The 20th episode of EdLeader is dedicated to the Class of 2020. In this episode, Dr. Jackson sits down with Valedictorian Ethan Hughson and Salutatorian Hannah Rose to discuss what this school year has been like and how it has impacted the Class of 2020. As Ethan, Hannah, and their peers around the world prepare to leave behind their K-12 school careers to head to college, career, or the military, they do so with an experience that none before them have had. Born around the time of 9/11, having lived through several major hurricanes, and now having had their senior year impacted, this class is ready for just about anything the world may throw at it.
Thank you for being a part of the EdLeader community and for helping to grow the podcast across the country and around the world. More importantly, thank you for all that you do for others! Good luck to the Class of 2020!
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with North Carolina State Board of Education Chairman Eric Davis to discuss leadership and meeting the challenges of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. Chairman Davis compares teachers, principals, and superintendents with mighty lighthouses "standing tall and sending out a beacon of hope, and safety and security and care to each one of our students." He describes that like a lighthouse, the light shines not for the sender, but for all of those who are in darkness, regardless of demographic characteristic. His message of encouragement and appreciation for all Edleaders is one most needed and most appreciated. Dr. Jackson describes this episode as one of the most powerful and moving conversations I have had.
Chairman Eric Davis was appointed as an at-large member of the NC State Board of Education in January 2015. He graduated 9th in the Class of 1983 from the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. He served as an Airborne Ranger combat engineer officer in the US Army and is a professional engineer in North Carolina. He is a public school graduate as are his children.
Show Notes are available at www.drrobjackson.com
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Dr. Michael Sasscer to discuss seven tips for parents in supporting their child’s remote learning. Developed by Larry Ferlazzo, these seven tips give concrete examples of how parents might help their children continue their academic progress even while they are away from school and away from their teachers. Just as most teachers were not trained in how to teach online, most parents have not been taught how to serve as their child’s educational facilitator. These tips for parents are just as applicable to all caregivers and are helpful for EdLeaders in supporting parents during the school closures caused by the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Michael Sasscer serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the Edenton-Chowan Schools system in Edenton, North Carolina. He has been a public school educator for 23 years. He is a former Teaching Fellow, a former Principal Fellow, and earned National Board Certification as a high school Math teacher.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with Dr. Lory Morrow, to discuss overcoming an obstacle that is faced by school districts across the country and around the world: lack of access to high-quality internet. This lack of access impacts students, families, and community members. Dr. Morrow and her team have met that challenge with collaboration, seeking out and using good data, and employing innovative solutions. They have created a “Next-Level” system of exterior wi-fi.
Dr. Lory Morrow serves as the Superintendent of the Lincoln County Schools in Lincolnton, North Carolina. She has been a public school educator for 29 years. She is the current President-Elect for the North Carolina Association of School Administrators (NCASA) and Past President of the North Carolina Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (NCASCD).
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with two gifted Instructional Leaders, Dr. Brad Breedlove and Dr. John Jones, to discuss supporting academics during remote learning in the unprecedented challenges presented by the coronavirus, COVID-19. Chief Academic Officers in large school districts, Dr. Breedlove and Dr. Jones share their belief in grace over grades, in the need to share a message of hope, in the power of well-crafted flexible plans, in meaningful feedback, and in continuing to seek unresponsive students. The trio also discuss the current role of MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) in meeting the unique needs of students during this time.
Dr. John Jones serves as the Chief Academic and Accountability Officer for Rock Hill Schools in Rock Hill South Carolina. He has been serving as in public education for 31 years. Dr. Brad Breedlove serves as the Chief Academic Officer for Union County Public Schools in Monroe, North Carolina. He has been a public school educator for 21 years. Their decades of experience leading in the area of curriculum and instruction give them a perspective and valuable insight that all EdLeaders can benefit from as they reflect on their current challenges.
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down virtually with two very experienced classroom teachers to discuss teaching with grace as the current pandemic forces teachers to radically change the way teachers deliver instruction and support students.The coronavirus pandemic finds students in all sorts of circumstances. Some are caring for younger siblings, being cared for by older siblings, home alone, dealing with the unexpected unemployment of a parent, lacking internet access, dealing with domestic turmoil, or just scared by the current events. In the midst of a very different situations themselves, still teachers and staff are giving their all for our children.
The best schools and school districts recognize and empower teachers as leaders. Ms. Stacey Banks is a 23-year teaching veteran. She teaches Fifth Grade Science and Social Studies at D.F. Walker Elementary School. Ms. Krista Perry is a seventh grade math teacher at Chowan Middle School. Each is recognized as a leader in their schools and in the school district. https://bit.ly/2VAMJAE
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In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down with the current North Carolina State Superintendent of the Year and one of the longest tenured superintendents in the state of North Carolina, Dr. Patrick Miller. Dr. Jackson and Dr. Miller discuss ongoing school district efforts to meet the unprecedented challenges presented by the coronavirus, COVID-19. After leading through the aftermath caused when a tornado ripped through a middle school in 2011, Dr. Miller’s experiences with leading through a crisis and his leadership in the state during this current pandemic give him a perspective and valuable insight that all EdLeaders can benefit from as they reflect on their current challenges. Dr. Miller serves as a mentor and thought-partner to superintendents throughout the state.
Dr. Miller has served as the Superintendent of the Greene County Schools system for twelve years, a place where he grew up, attended school, and served as a teacher and principal prior to being named Superintendent. Recently, Dr. Miller was selected as the Greene County Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year. Greene County was selected as one of 25 National Models of Innovative Successful Practices and is looked to as an innovation leader in the state.
Show Notes available at https://drrobjackson.blogspot.com/2020/04/edleader-episode-14.html
As the coronavirus, COVID-19, spread across the country, EdLeaders in schools everywhere found themselves in the midst of unprecedented challenges. Extended school closures necessitated the development of remote learning protocols and the need to provide meals to students who might live in food-insecure homes. In the middle of this massive change swirled the anxiety caused by a dread virus whose numbers grew alarmingly as days crept by. Charged with supporting the well-being of students and staff, school counselors responded with a caring sense of calm, connecting those with needs to those with resources. They counseled teachers on strategies to reduce stress in students while they themselves balanced the needs in their personal lives with the needs of those in their care.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Jackson sits down virtually with two all-star school counselors who share their approach and work to support all students, particularly the most vulnerable, during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss balancing supporting the school work of their personal children with the demands of supporting the students on their caseload. The counselors also share thoughts and recommendations for Teachers and other EdLeaders on how to best support the social and emotional needs of students during a pandemic.
Mrs. Katie Milligan serves as the School Counselor at White Oak Elementary School, a school serving students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through Second Grade. Mrs. Jennifer Cobb serves as a School Counselor at John A. Holmes High School. Both schools are a part of the Edenton-Chowan Public School System in Northeastern North Carolina. Each is in their seventh year as a School Counselor and each is a parent of Edenton-Chowan Schools students.
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Within the past few days, two school systems became among the first in the state of North Carolina to have lab-confirmed cases of Coronavirus COVID-19 connected to the school. Join the superintendents of those school systems, EdLeader host Dr. Rob Jackson and Dr. Ethan Lenker, as they discuss how they approached the unprecedented challenge presented when this ongoing pandemic enters the lives of students, teachers, staff, and the community.
Charles Swindoll said that life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. As EdLeaders, we did not ask for this challenge, but we are not going to lose faith in our collective ability to meet the needs of our students as together we hold the chaos at bay and help our students, families, staff, and communities navigate through. Leadership matters and EdLeaders around the world have stepped up in big ways.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Milken Award winner Rachel O'Kelley. Called the "Oscars of Teaching," the $25,000 Milken awards honor early to mid-career educators who are making a true difference in the lives of children. Rachel O'Kelley is a Physics, Chemistry, Physical Science, and Biology teacher at John A. Holmes High School. She uses competition and teamwork in equal measure to encourage students to achieve what they previously did not believe was possible.
Mrs. O'Kelley teaches in the same classroom she sat in as a student. From that same classroom, she shares with Dr. Jackson that this is "where the magic happens." The magic is the moment when a student "gets it" for the very first time, when they surprise themselves with their success. As an EdLeader, Mrs. O'Kelley mentors new teachers, serves on the School Improvement Leadership Team, and sponsors student clubs.
Show notes are available at www.drrobjackson.com.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with George Couros, Author of "The Innovator's Mindset" and "Innovate Inside the Box." A frequent and well-known speaker and consultant, Couros defines innovation as that that is "new and better." He draws a distinct division between traditional teaching practices and "bad" teaching practices, arguing that some traditional practices are quite powerful while others may need to be replaced. "New is not always better," he says while noting that we must ensure that and new practices should be tested to ensure that they are helping students achieve their goals.
Couros says that we must work closely together through our social networks to help build environments that best meet the needs of students in a continuously changing environment. He believes in the power of students, and that all of the children we can teach can be leaders if we help them find their passion.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with North Carolina State Teacher of the Year Freebird McKinney to delve into the transforming potential of contagious joy in educators and the absolute power of yet. "I cannot answer this math problem... yet!" "I cannot write a paper that long...yet!" Together, they discuss the sense of community built by lighthouse educators and the need to tell the stories of successful EdLeaders far and wide.
Mr. McKinney, newly minted Director of Legislative Affairs and Community Outreach for the North Carolina State Board of Education, is a bridge-builder, a village teacher, an Educator Diplomat, and an inspirational EdLeader.
Show notes are available at www.drrobjackson.com
In this episode, EdLeader host Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Educational Leadership Professor Dr. Kerry Robinson to discuss the growing need for mental health services through the schools and the importance of prioritizing our own well-being. As our awareness of social-emotional learning and trauma-informed schools grows, so to does our need to really understand what that means for students and staff.
An Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Dr. Robinson's primary areas of research include women in leadership, the superintendency, and leadership preparation. Her 17 years of experience in K-12 as a teacher, building level administrator, and district level administrator continue to inform her work.
Show notes are available at www.drrobjackson.com
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Chapel Hill - Carrboro City Schools Superintendent Dr. Pam Baldwin and Scotland County Schools Superintendent Dr. Ron Hargrave. Representing three very distinctly different school districts, nevertheless these three superintendents find commonality in their thoughts on the characteristics of amazing EdLeaders. They discuss learning and respecting school and district culture and digging beyond the surface data to really get to know how students are doing.
As always, the bell announcing the latest EdLeader Inbox Scenario rings out to challenge these experienced EdLeaders. Their thoughtful approach and their desire to help others grow in their careers shows as they tackle the Inbox.
Dr. Baldwin and Dr. Hargrave, together with Dr. Jackson, serve as Thought-Partners/Mentors in the state's Aspiring Superintendent Program. Now in its fourth year, the program is designed for senior EdLeaders who are considering moving into the superintendency.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with School System Teacher of the Year Mrs. Molli Rose. Mrs. Rose is an amazing EdLeader who has been teaching Middle School and High School English/Language Arts for 26 years. Dr. Jackson and Mrs. Rose discuss finding the awesome in the awful, the power of reflection, not being the sand in the vaseline, and what teachers wish that every principal and superintendent knew about teaching in 2020. The first EdLeader, currently serving as a classroom teacher, to be on the podcast, nevertheless Mrs. Rose hears the bell and must meet the challenge of the latest EdLeader Inbox Scenario.
This National Board Certified Teacher is a mentor, teacher coach, and department head who has a passion for helping new and novice teachers grow in their practice. Her classroom radiates joy even as she strives to be vulnerable and authentic with her students and colleagues.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Dr. Sam Houston, an esteemed EdLeader who has been serving public education for over 50 years. Dr. Houston has been described as one of the faces on the Mount Rushmore of EdLeaders in North Carolina. Dr. jackson and Dr. Houston discuss the importance of EdLeaders truly knowing themselves and their own true north star. Dr. Houston shares that STEM education is more than Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. It is Strategies That Engage Minds.They also delve into moving the curriculum from fact-driven to inquiry-driven and using Science as an introduction to all other curricular areas.
Dr. Houston is a former teacher, principal, and superintendent. He has been inducted into multiple education Halls of Fame. Dr. Houston currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the NC Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with the 2020 State Superintendent of the Year Dr. Tony Jackson to discuss courageous leadership and the cost to students and staff when a lack of courage keeps a leader from speaking up. Dr. Tony Jackson shares the tremendous honor and responsibility taking on the Mantle of Leadership brings. The Drs. Jackson also highlight the importance of being careful stewards of opportunity and personalizing education to meet the needs of students. Later in the episode, Dr. Jackson is presented with an EdLeader Podcast Inbox scenario and discusses how he would handle the hypothetical situation.
Rigor, Relevance, and Relationships were the education buzzwords dujour until educators made cliches out of them and moved on to the next great idea. Perhaps educational leaders need to reexamine their power as a lens with which to view education today.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with two of his sons, Joshua and Elijah, to discuss how graduating from public school prepared them (or not) for life beyond high school. One is a recent college graduate and one is soon to be. They share that the teachers that most made a difference in their lives were the teachers who took the time to really know them and establish a relationship with them. Joshua and Elijah discuss the relevance of the curriculum they experienced in high school with their Dad and discuss the true meaning of rigor.
In this episode of EdLeader, Dr. Rob Jackson sits down with Regional Principal of the Year Sheila Evans to discuss the importance of Early Childhood Education in helping to ensure that students are ready for school and more likely to graduate from high school on-time and college, career, and citizenship ready. Mrs. Evans shares what makes the school she serves the #HappiestPlaceInChowanCounty and how the school begins discussing high school graduation with their youngest elementary students. Later in the episode, Mrs. Evans is presented with the first EdLeader Podcast Inbox scenario and discusses how she would handle the hypothetical scenario presented to her.
Educational Leadership is an ever-evolving opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of students, parents, and the community. Join Dr. Rob Jackson for conversations and reflections on improving Educational Leadership from the Classroom to the Boardroom and beyond.
What is possible when you truly believe in students, teachers, administrators, and schools? How about every single school meeting or exceeding growth expectations, cohort graduation rates growing from 78.9% to 91.6%, and zero low-performing schools in a small, rural, high-poverty district?
In this first episode, meet show host Dr. Jackson as he shares his current work and district performance, his educational philosophy, and his background.