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Superintendents Unplugged: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Strategos Podcast Network
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- Oct 13, 202516 min
How JPEF is Transforming Jacksonville's Educational Landscape, With Rachel Fortune
In this episode of Superintendent Unplugged, host and Strategos Partner Addison Davis sits down with Rachel Fortune, President of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), to explore the power of community-driven education reform.With over 15 years of leadership experience, Fortune shares her passion for advancing educational equity and creating sustainable impact. She discusses JPEF’s role as a “think and do tank,” blending data-driven insights with real action to transform public education in Duval County. From tackling historic dropout rates to spearheading major tax referendums that secured funding for schools and educators, Fortune highlights how strategic community engagement can drive meaningful change.Davis and Fortune also dive into the importance of teacher pipeline development, literacy initiatives, and workforce readiness in the evolving education landscape. They emphasize the critical role of partnerships—between schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local government—in ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed beyond the classroom.Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or community leader, this episode delivers powerful insights on how collaboration and innovative leadership can shape the future of education. Tune in to hear how Jacksonville is setting a precedent for impactful, data-driven reform—and why every district should have a strong education foundation working alongside its schools.Listen now to Superintendent Unplugged and be inspired by the work happening in Jacksonville and beyond!Key Moments05:11 Jacksonville Schools Vision and Action07:23 Data-Driven Collaborative Strategy12:15 Imagining Future-Ready Public Schools14:01 Enhancing School-Community PartnershipsConnect with Rachel FortuneLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-tutwiler-fortune-07605429/Website: https://www.jaxpef.org/
- Oct 6, 202519 min
Turning the Tide: How Dr. Alesia Smith Drives Lasting Change in Schools
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Alesia Smith, Deputy Superintendent and Chief of Schools for Cincinnati Public Schools, to explore what it means to lead with both heart and strategy in today’s ever-evolving educational landscape. With over 30 years of transformative experience, Dr. Smith shares the wisdom she’s gained from turning around some of the nation’s lowest-performing schools and her unwavering belief that every child deserves access to rigorous, equitable instruction.From her early days in Cincinnati to her system-wide successes in Arkansas, Dr. Smith has consistently championed the power of strong school leadership and data-driven practices. She discusses her current work overseeing instructional development in Ohio’s third-largest district, where she’s laser-focused on strengthening Tier 1 instruction, leveraging platforms like iReady, and improving Algebra I outcomes.The conversation delves into Cincinnati’s proactive approach to AI integration, the importance of remaining connected to schools as a district leader, and the challenges and opportunities behind reconfiguring grade-level structures for long-term student success. Dr. Smith emphasizes that true progress stems from systemic, sustainable models — not isolated wins.This episode is a masterclass in courageous leadership and a must-listen for educators, policymakers, and anyone committed to making schools work better for all students. Dr. Smith’s passion is palpable, her insight profound, and her vision for the future of public education refreshingly pragmatic.Key Moments06:02 "Balancing District and School Roles"07:05 "School Support and Impact Focus"10:20 Educational Interaction and Collaboration15:30 Systemic Educational Success in Arkansas18:18 "Superintendent Candidate: Dr. Alicia Smith"Connect with Dr. Alesia SmithLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alesia-smith-220a52218Website: https://www.cps-k12.org/
- Sep 29, 202516 min
Strategies to Combat Portland's Literacy Crisis with Dr. Armstrong
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis, Strategos Partner, sits down with Dr. Kimberlee Armstrong, Superintendent of Portland Public Schools, for an insightful conversation on leadership, literacy, and the challenges of guiding Oregon’s largest school district.Dr. Armstrong, eight months into her tenure, shares her strategic approach to driving positive change in Portland Public Schools, emphasizing three key priorities: advancing literacy, strengthening relationships, and ensuring safe and well-maintained learning environments. She highlights the urgent need for literacy reform, calling it a “civil right” and detailing the district’s city-wide book distribution campaign.Facing a $40 million budget deficit, Dr. Armstrong discusses her proactive efforts to engage the community and legislators in securing essential funding. She also speaks candidly about the importance of trust-building, particularly in the wake of a teacher strike, and her leadership in navigating Portland’s $1.8 billion bond renewal to modernize aging school facilities.Throughout the episode, Dr. Armstrong’s passion for education and commitment to equity shine as she reflects on her personal journey from childhood poverty to leading a major urban school district. With her student-first mindset, she is determined to create a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking educational environment in Portland.Key Moments00:00 Portland Challenges: Housing and Homelessness06:06 Empowering Literacy Beyond School Hours09:35 $1B Maintenance Requires Bond Funding13:13 "Portland's Inspiring Educational Leadership"14:00 "See You in Classrooms"Connect with Dr. Kimberlee ArmstrongLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kimberlee-armstrong-88172412/Website: https://www.pps.net/
- Sep 22, 202519 min
No Excuses, Just Excellence: Buffalo’s Education Reboot Starts Here
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Tonja M. Williams Knight, superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools and a hometown changemaker with more than three decades in education. Recorded live at the Council of the Great City Schools Conference in Dallas, this conversation captures the energy and urgency behind Dr. Williams Knight’s leadership.From school counselor to the top office, Dr. Williams Knight shares her rare journey from student to superintendent in the very district that raised her. She opens up about her signature initiative, Five by 2025—a strategic plan rooted in community voice and designed to close opportunity gaps, elevate classroom excellence, ensure safety, amplify student and parent voices, and foster high-impact partnerships.Listeners will hear how she’s transforming outcomes with a bold literacy push, early childhood investment, and a restorative, relationship-driven approach to school discipline. Davis and Williams Knight also explore the importance of building a high-performing leadership team, the complexities of post-COVID attendance, and why recruiting talent is a year-round mission in Buffalo.Dr. Williams Knight’s deep roots and relentless commitment to equity make her story not just inspiring—but instructive for educational leaders nationwide. She leads with heart, strategy, and a sense of purpose that’s reshaping what it means to serve an urban district.Key Moments06:04 "Community-Driven Superintendent Initiative"07:57 "Prioritizing Safety and Community Involvement"10:30 Guidance for Future Success15:15 Early Childhood Programs: Urban Education's Game Changer16:41 Unapologetically Recruiting Top TalentConnect with Dr. Tonja M WilliamsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tonja-m-williams-59940514Website: https://www.buffaloschools.org/
- Sep 15, 202517 min
Insights from Dr. Joe Gothard: Leadership Lessons from a National Superintendent of the Year
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Joe Gothard, 2024 AASA National Superintendent of the Year and proud Madison native, for an insightful and heartfelt conversation on leadership, resilience, and coming full circle.Dr. Gothard, who began his journey in education as a biology teacher at his alma mater, La Follette High School, shares the powerful story of returning to lead the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD)—the same district where he was once a student, teacher, and parent. In a remarkable twist of fate, the very day he accepted the MMSD superintendent position, he was also named the top superintendent in the nation.Together, Davis and Gothard unpack the lessons learned from leading through adversity, including the pandemic, community tragedies, and the complex political realities facing superintendents today. Gothard speaks candidly about the importance of knowing your values, embracing failure, and fostering inclusivity in school systems. He reflects on his leadership in St. Paul, where he launched groundbreaking equity-driven initiatives such as the East African Elementary Magnet School and expanded dual-language and career pathway programs.Throughout the episode, listeners get a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead with heart, humility, and vision. From navigating national recognition to reconnecting with his roots, Dr. Gothard offers a masterclass in servant leadership—and a powerful reminder that coming home is often the boldest move of all.Key Moments06:12 "Prioritize Listening Over Reacting"09:14 Preparing for Leadership and Community Alignment10:09 Navigating Superintendent Political Role14:02 "Redefining Possibilities in Leadership"Connect with Dr. Joe Gothard LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joegothard/Website: https://www.madison.k12.wi.us/
- Sep 8, 202519 min
Dr. Morris Leis on School Safety Innovations in Coffee County
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Morris Leis, Superintendent of Coffee County Schools in Georgia. Recorded live at the AASA Conference, the conversation offers an in-depth look at Dr. Leis’ remarkable 16-year journey as a superintendent, including 14 years leading his hometown district.A native of Coffee County, Dr. Leis shares how returning home wasn’t just a professional move—it was a personal calling. From his early days as a social studies teacher to his leadership roles across Ben Hill and Wayne counties, Dr. Leis brings a wealth of experience and a steady hand to district leadership. In this episode, he opens up about the importance of board relationships, consistent communication, and hiring strong school leaders.Listeners will hear how Dr. Leis has championed community trust through the strategic use of ESPLOST funding—building state-of-the-art facilities like new elementary schools, a performing arts center, and a naval JROTC indoor training center. His focus on safety is equally strong, having established an in-district police department and layered security systems across all schools.Above all, Dr. Leis speaks to the heart of what it means to lead with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to student success. Whether you're a seasoned educator or a new leader in the field, this episode offers invaluable insights into sustaining leadership, building community partnerships, and creating a district culture rooted in care and excellence.Key Moments03:24 Transparent Communication with Board Members08:30 New Indoor Multi-Use Facility12:13 Building a Community Police Department14:18 Gaggle's Role in Student Safety16:28 Doctor Morris Leis in GeorgiaConnect with Dr. Morris LeisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morris-leis-b3142934/Website: https://www.coffee.k12.ga.us/
- Sep 1, 202522 min
Transforming Education: Strategies and Stories from "On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired."
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with two of the nation’s most respected education leaders—Dr. Kristi Wilson and Dr. Susan Enfield—for an unfiltered conversation on leadership, resilience, and the realities of the superintendency. Together, they delve into their new book, On Fire, Under Fire, or Fired, a candid chronicle of 40 superintendents navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and the political and professional turbulence that followed.Dr. Wilson, former president of AASA and long-time superintendent in Arizona, and Dr. Enfield, a nationally recognized former superintendent from Nevada and Washington, reflect on the urgent need to reframe the narrative around superintendents—not as embattled bureaucrats but as committed public servants with unmatched passion for students and communities. They explore themes like mentorship, systemic equity, political acumen, and the power of networks that sustain leaders through crises.What emerges is not just a book, but a blueprint—for current and aspiring superintendents to find strength, strategy, and solidarity in a job that’s as rewarding as it is relentless. From war stories to wisdom, the episode is a tribute to the courage and complexity of the role—and a call to action for communities to support those who lead their schools forward.Key Moments04:00 Celebrating the Superintendent Role07:56 Superintendents: Dedicated to Service11:02 Keys to Success: Prepare, Listen, Connect14:53 Team Building & Situational Awareness17:05 "Engaging and Aligning with the Board"19:19 Lessons from Crisis ManagementConnect with Dr. Kristi WilsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-wilson-ed-d-28597933/Connect with Dr. Susan EnfieldLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanaenfield/
- Aug 25, 202519 min
Driving Educational Change: Dr. Horton Discusses Strategies and Successes in DeKalb County
In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Devon Horton, superintendent of Georgia’s DeKalb County School District—home to over 92,000 students and the third-largest school system in the state. Broadcasting from AASA’s national conference, this candid conversation dives into Dr. Horton’s 25-year journey in public education and the bold transformation he’s leading in DeKalb.From his early teaching days in Chicago Public Schools to his leadership roles in East St. Louis, Louisville, and Evanston, Horton shares how every step shaped his philosophy: “students don’t fail—systems do.” Now at the helm of DeKalb, he’s reimagining those systems with precision and vision.Listeners will hear how Dr. Horton restructured DeKalb’s regional model to provide laser-focused support through the district’s Horizon initiative—a bold approach targeting the most vulnerable schools with intensive resources, coaching, and academic leadership. He discusses his strategic hiring of 63 new principals and a revamped leadership cabinet, bringing in top-tier talent to match the district’s ambition.Dr. Horton also unpacks DeKalb’s innovative moves—from launching elementary sports to planning a districtwide STEAM initiative and a sweeping student assignment redesign. Throughout, Davis highlights Horton’s values-driven leadership, commitment to equity, and relentless drive to ensure every student has access to opportunity.Key Moments04:43 Evolution of Leadership in DeKalb07:14 Educational Transformation and Leadership Focus11:11 Hiring and Supporting Effective Principals14:14 High-Impact School Closure Strategy16:03 District-Wide STEAM and Athletic RevampConnect with Dr. Devon HortonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-devon-horton-53690661Website: https://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/
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About Superintendents Unplugged
Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the inaugural episode of "Superintendents Unplugged: In Depth with Davis," the podcast where we'll dive deep into the world of Educational Leadership. I'm your host, Addison Davis, and I'm thrilled to have you join me as we embark on this inspiring journey together.As a superintendent myself, I understand the challenges and complexities that come with leading a school district. But what I've come to realize is that there's an abundance of amazing work being done by superintendents all across our country. This podcast is a platform to shine a spotlight on their incredible accomplishments and innovative approaches.Each episode will bring you exclusive interviews with superintendents from various districts across our country, both big and small, urban and rural. As they share their personal stories, triumphs, and even their moments of vulnerability, we will explore the strategies they employ to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of education. From fos
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