EPISODE 115: What Keeps School Leaders Up at Night? | AASA EDITION

March 17, 2023

In this episode, host Kevin Stoller takes us to the 2023 AASA conference in San Antonio, Texas. Kevin talks to 19 school leaders and asks them two questions: (1) What Keeps You Up at Night? and (2) Who Are Your Most Trusted Advisors?

Overview:

The answers to these questions are alarming and shed light on the challenges that school leaders face in their day-to-day work. From student safety to budget constraints, school leaders are grappling with a range of issues that affect not only their schools but also their personal lives.

Kevin and his guests discuss the need for a peer-to-peer network exclusively for school leaders. They explore the challenges of finding a supportive community that can help school leaders work through their issues while growing personally and professionally.

Throughout the episode, Kevin and his guests offer practical tips and advice on how to navigate the challenges of being a school leader. They share their experiences and insights on how to build a supportive network and find trusted advisors.

If you’re a school leader who is looking for a supportive community to help you navigate the challenges of your role, then this episode is for you. Listen in as Kevin and his guests talk through the issues that are keeping school leaders up at night and explore where they can go for help.

Meet Our Guest:

Who made this episode possible?
PJ Caposey, Superintendent
Meridian School District

Barbara Mullen, Superintendent
Rush-Henrietta Central School District

Nick Ouellette, Superintendent
Hudson School District

John Robidoux, Superintendent
Swansea Public Schools

Jesse Steiner, Superintendent
Northwestern Local Schools

Karen Cheser, Superintendent
Durango School District 9-R

Dr. Brian Yearwood, Superintendent
Columbia Public Schools

Charles Johns, Superintendent
Glenbrook High School District 225

Claudia Avery, Deputy Superintendent
Fairfield County School District

Sandy Strayer, Superintendent
Henry County Public Schools

Dale Olinger, Superintendent
Lolo School District 7

Mike Slagle, Superintendent
Raymore-Peculiar School District

Sharon Kherat, Superintendent
Peoria Public Schools District 150

Ed Nichols, Superintendent
Madison City Schools

Thomas Bongiovi, Superintendent
Orange-Ulster Boces

Tricia Mooney, Superintendent
Hermiston School District

Peter Finch, Superintendent
West Valley School District

Mike Toole, Assistant Principal
Highlands Elementary School

Edward Manuszak, Executive Director
Washtenaw ISD

The Host:

While students may only be 20%-25% of our population today, they are 100% of our future. That is why education is one of the most important investments a country can make and the sole purpose for the existence of the Better Learning Podcast.

The Better Learning Podcast brings on valued guests that talk about ways we can improve education for our kids. Because after all, they are 100% of our future!

Kevin Stoller:
Kevin Stoller is the host of the Better Learning Podcast and Co-Founder of Kay-Twelve, a national leader for educational furniture. Learn more about creating better learning environments at www.Kay-Twelve.com.

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If you are interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great guest, please visit the Better Learning Podcast website.

Our Partners:

Kay-Twelve:
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Better Learning Podcast
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Association for Learning Environments (A4LE):
The Association for Learning Environments (A4LE)
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Second Class Foundation
Second Class Foundation

Be a Guest on the Better Learning Podcast!

Do you have a favorite school-related movie that left a lasting impact? Join us as a guest on the Better Learning Podcast, where we dive into iconic films, break down memorable moments, and hand out fun awards—all while connecting them to real-world education.

From standout teachers to unforgettable one-liners, we’ll explore how these movies reflect (or totally exaggerate!) school life. Plus, you’ll get to share your own insights and experiences in education.

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About the podcast

The Better Learning Podcast combines education and entertainment in a fresh, engaging format where guests share their favorite school-related movies. Host Kevin Stoller leads dynamic conversations, exploring memorable scenes, iconic characters, and timeless lessons through award-style categories like “The John Keating Award” for standout teachers and “Realistic or Ridiculous?” to dissect school life portrayals.

With humor, analysis, and reflection, each episode celebrates the fun, flaws, and impact of these films while sparking nostalgia and insights. Whether you’re an educator, student, or movie buff, join us to relive the movies that shaped how we see school life, and share your favorites.