The Superintendent Effect
Welcome to The Superintendent Effect -- where we hear stories of strong leaders building strong communities. Each week, tune in to hear from school superintendents around the country as they work to support the various needs in their community.
Still Coaching: Leading Education Beyond the Classroom with Dr. Brian Maher
Dr. Brian Maher | Nebraska Commissioner of Education
What does it take to build stronger schools, support educators, and improve student outcomes across an entire state?
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Brian Maher, Commissioner of Education for the State of Nebraska. Originally from a small town in Nebraska, Dr. Maher shares his journey from teaching math and physics to leading three school districts and ultimately serving as his state's Commissioner of Education.
In this episode:
...
When Students Speak, Schools Change with Dr. Jonathan Cooper
Dr. Jonathan Cooper, Superintendent of Mason City Schools in Mason, Ohio, joins The Superintendent Effect to discuss how listening to students transformed his district's approach to education, mental health, and student well-being.
After students challenged district leaders to address a troubling pattern of student suicides, Mason City Schools began making significant changes, from later high school start times and a renewed focus on belonging to expanded prevention programs and student-led initiatives.
In this episode, Dr. Cooper shares how the district empowers students through real-world learning experiences, including a student-run...
Beyond Academics: Preparing Students for Life with Dave Means
What does it take to build a school community where students, families, and educators can thrive?
David Means, former superintendent of Whitefish School District in Whitefish, Montana, joins Anne Brown on The Superintendent Effect to discuss collaborative leadership, student mental health, family support, and the future of education.
Listen today!
#TheSuperintendentEffect #EducationalLeadership #StudentMentalHealth #SchoolLeadership #Whitefish #Montana #Retirement
Every Student Deserves to Belong with Dr. Dan Linford
What does it look like to put students at the center of school district leadership?
On this episode of The Superintendent Effect, host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Dan Linford, superintendent of Davis School District in Utah, to explore how schools can create meaningful opportunities for every student.
In this episode, we discuss:
Dan’s journey from high school English teacher to superintendentHow Davis School District is expanding career and technical education through its Catalyst CenterWhy student belonging matters, including support for students experiencing homelessness and housing insecurityWhy communication, collaboration, an...The Ripple Effect of Leadership with Dr. Dan Bittman
Dr. Daniel Bittman, Superintendent of Edina Public Schools in Minnesota, joins Anne Brown for a great conversation about leadership, community partnerships, student opportunities, and the lasting impact of a superintendent.
With 17 years of experience as a superintendent and a career that has taken him from Minnesota to the Clark County School District in Las Vegas and the Minnesota Department of Education, Dr. Bittman shares lessons he has learned from leading school communities of vastly different sizes.
Listen today!
#TheSuperintendentEffect #SchoolLeadership #EdinaPublicSchools #Superintendent
Becoming the Reason the World Moves with Aaron Bayer
Aaron Bayer, Superintendent of the Oregon Trail School District in Oregon, joins The Superintendent Effect to share his remarkable journey into education leadership and his vision for preparing students for the future.
Located east of Portland and at the base of Mount Hood, Oregon Trail serves nearly 4,000 students across a unique community that includes Sandy, Boring, Welches, Government Camp, and surrounding areas.
Aaron shares his personal journey from a difficult childhood and early struggles in school to becoming a superintendent who has spent 16 years serving the same district. He...
The Future of Barrow County with Dr. Dallas LeDuff
Dr. Dallas LeDuff, Superintendent of the Barrow County School System in Georgia, joins The Superintendent Effect to share his journey from special education teacher to district leader and superintendent. With a commitment to students, educators, and the community he serves, Dr. LeDuff discusses what it takes to build a school system that supports every learner and prepares students for a successful future.Dr. LeDuff talks about mental health partnerships, supporting families, innovative CTE programs, and preparing students for the workforce of tomorrow. He also shares advice for new superintendents, including the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and remembering that education...
"I Got You": The Power of Culture in Newaygo with Ben Gilpin
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Ben Gilpin, Superintendent of Newaygo Public Schools in Michigan, shares his journey from classroom teacher to principal to superintendent and the lessons he’s learned along the way about leadership, culture, community, and supporting every student.
Ben discusses his first three years leading Newaygo Public Schools, including the work of bringing three buildings together as one district, strengthening professional learning communities, balancing a $1.3 million budget, improving systems and processes, and building a stronger school culture.
One of Ben’s central leadership philosophies is s...
Taking Grand Forks to New Heights with Dr. Terry Brenner
Dr. Terry Brenner — Grand Forks, North Dakota | Grand Forks Public Schools
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Dr. Terry Brenner shares how Grand Forks Public Schools is creating new pathways for students through STEM, drone and aeronautics programs, career education, mental health supports, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.
Dr. Brenner discusses the district’s new Career Impact Academy, its partnership with Grand Forks Air Force Base, strategies for connecting every student with a caring adult, and how the district is working to make it “almost impossible to fai...
From Climbing the Ladder to Serving Others with Dr. Robert Mungo
Dr. Robert Mungo, Superintendent of Mount Holly Township School District in Mount Holly Township, New Jersey, joins The Superintendent Effect for a conversation about family engagement, leadership, resilience, and building stronger communities.
Dr. Mungo discusses the difference between family involvement and true engagement, his own journey to the superintendency, breaking generational cycles, and how his understanding of leadership has evolved over time.
His message is simple but powerful: leadership is ultimately about people and the impact we leave behind.
#TheSuperintendentEffect #SchoolLeadership #NewJersey #MountHollyTownship
Leading Students Toward a Brighter Future with Erin Kane
Erin Kane, Superintendent of Douglas County School District in Colorado, joins Anne Brown on The Superintendent Effect to discuss leading one of Colorado's largest school districts through a rapidly changing educational landscape.
Superintendent Kane shares her unconventional journey from engineering and the high-tech industry to education leadership, as well as how Douglas County is embracing AI, expanding career pathways, and making mental health and student well-being a central part of its strategic vision.
In this episode, Erin discusses:
• Why schools can't afford to close the door on AI...
The Power of Relationships in Education with Superintendent Ben Kirby
Ben Kirby, Superintendent of Forest Hills Public Schools in Kent County, Michigan, joins host Anne Brown to discuss how strong relationships create stronger schools and powerful communities.
In this episode, Ben shares his leadership journey from classroom teacher to superintendent, explains how Forest Hills is uniting three unique attendance areas into one collaborative district, and discusses the importance of investing in school culture, staff engagement, and future-ready learning opportunities.
You'll also hear how Forest Hills is expanding STEM education, health sciences, career pathways, and student-centered learning while keeping family...
The Power of Relationships in Education with Superintendent Ben Kirby
Ben Kirby, Superintendent of Forest Hills Public Schools in Kent County, Michigan, joins host Anne Brown to discuss how strong relationships create stronger schools and powerful communities.
In this episode, Ben shares his leadership journey from classroom teacher to superintendent, explains how Forest Hills is uniting three unique attendance areas into one collaborative district, and discusses the importance of investing in school culture, staff engagement, and future-ready learning opportunities.
You'll also hear how Forest Hills is expanding STEM education, health sciences, career pathways, and student-centered learning while keeping family...
How Durango Schools Are Preparing Students for Life with Dr. Karen Cheser
Dr. Karen Cheser, Superintendent of Durango School District 9-R in Durango, Colorado, joins host Anne Brown, President and CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, to discuss how visionary leadership is transforming education for students, families, and the entire community.
From innovative career pathways and maker-spaces to workforce housing for educators, mental health initiatives, and creating a shared "Portrait of a Graduate," Dr. Cheser shares how schools can prepare students not just for graduation, but for life, too.
Learn how community partnerships, future-focused learning, and servant leadership are...
Going Slow to Go Fast | How Relationships Drive Lasting Change with Katy Xenakis-Makowski
Katy Xenakis-Makowski, Superintendent of Johannesburg-Lewiston Area Schools in northeast Michigan, joins host Anne Brown to discuss how strong relationships, community partnerships, and steady leadership have transformed opportunities for students in a rural district.
From creating an on-campus health clinic and expanding Career & Technical Education programs to building a community field-house and helping students earn college credits before graduation, Katy shares how thoughtful leadership can create lasting impact.
She also explains why her leadership philosophy is simple:
"Go slow to go fast."
Connect...
Defying Expectations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with Dr. Tom McKee
Dr. Tom McKee, Superintendent of Rudyard Area Schools in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, joins Anne Brown to discuss the unique opportunities and challenges of leading a rural school district serving nearly 700 students across 400 square miles.
In this episode, Dr. McKee shares his journey from preschool teacher to superintendent at age 28, how Rudyard students are earning college credits and career certifications before graduation, and why schools must work to remove barriers created by geography and poverty. He also discusses the growing mental health needs of students, supporting families through Parent University, and what it means to...
Life Is a Team Sport: Dr. Randy Russell’s Legacy of Service
Dr. Randy Russell, Superintendent of Freeman School District in Washington State, joins Anne Brown to reflect on his 38-year career in education and his final year leading the Freeman community after 15 years as superintendent.
Serving a close-knit rural district just south of Spokane, Dr. Russell shares how strong relationships, leadership stability, and community trust have helped Freeman achieve exceptional outcomes, including a 95% graduation rate. He also discusses leading through a school shooting, community wildfire, and the challenges of the pandemic while prioritizing student well-being and mental health.
Immersion Programs, Career Pathways, and 40 Years of Leading Schools with Mr. David Law
Mr. David Law, Superintendent of Minnetonka Public Schools in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and recent President of AASA (the national association representing more than 13,000 superintendents) joins CEO Anne Brown from Cook Center for a conversation on the future of education.
Mr. Law shares his unique journey through math education, law school, and school leadership, and discusses what sets Minnetonka apart: a thriving dual language immersion program in Chinese and Spanish, innovative experiential learning pathways, and a forward-thinking approach to AI in the classroom.
He also speaks candidly about the challenges of...
Leading SAU #21 on the New Hampshire Seacoast with Dr. Meredith Nadeau
Dr. Meredith Nadeau, Superintendent of School Administrative Unit #21 (SAU #21) in Hampton, New Hampshire, joins us for an inspiring conversation about what it truly means to lead with purpose on the seacoast. Overseeing five small districts and nearly 2,000 students — with six school boards and 23 school board members, Dr. Nadeau brings a remarkable depth of experience to the role.
In this episode, we dig into the science of reading and why early literacy is the foundation for everything else. Dr. Nadeau shares her journey from pre-med student to middle school English teacher to special educator, and ho...
What It Really Takes to Lead a School District with Dr. Melissa Stager
Dr. Melissa Stager, Superintendent of Clinton Township School District and former educator at the New Jersey Department of Education, joins Chief Strategy Officer Mark Welling on The Superintendent Effect to discuss her lifelong commitment to strengthening public education and expanding opportunity for every student.
In this special episode, Dr. Stager shares the story behind her district's ambitious "80 Percent in 3" literacy initiative, her approach to empowering teachers through grassroots leadership, and why protecting student mental health resources remains a non-negotiable priority.
She also opens up about the mentors who shaped...
The Human Side of School Leadership with Dr. Cory Steiner
Dr. Cory Steiner, Superintendent of Fargo Public Schools, joins Anne Brown to reflect on his leadership journey, from rural Northern Cass to one of North Dakota's largest urban districts. He shares the philosophy driving his work: removing barriers for families, pioneering mental health services in schools, and championing the idea that every adult in a building is an educator.
Dr. Steiner also opens up about the Portraits of a Learner, Educator, and Leader framework, the role vulnerability plays in authentic leadership, and a deeply personal story about accountability and the community that showed up...
Building Planes and Breaking Barriers with Dr. Nick Migliorino
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, host and Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Nick Migliorino from Norman Public Schools in Oklahoma for a powerful conversation about visionary leadership, community partnership, and what it truly means to serve students and families.
Dr. Migliorino shares his unconventional journey to the superintendency from aspiring nurse to teacher, technology innovator, and now a transformational district leader in Norman. He reflects on nearly two decades with Norman Public Schools and the bold initiatives shaping the future of education, including a groundbreaking $50 million aviation academy that is redefining...
Building Planes and Breaking Barriers with Dr. Nick Migliorino - Part 2
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, host and Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Nick Migliorino from Norman Public Schools in Oklahoma for a powerful conversation about visionary leadership, community partnership, and what it truly means to serve students and families.
Dr. Migliorino shares his unconventional journey to the superintendency from aspiring nurse to teacher, technology innovator, and now a transformational district leader in Norman. He reflects on nearly two decades with Norman Public Schools and the bold initiatives shaping the future of education, including a groundbreaking $50 million aviation academy that is redefining...
Building Strong Schools in Rural America with Dr. Ellen Perconti
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown meets with Dr. Ellen Perconti, Superintendent of Goldendale School District 404 in rural Washington state.
Dr. Perconti discusses her 7 year journey leading with a focus on well-being for both staff and students, honoring community traditions while preparing kids for the future, and redefining success through the whole child approach.
She shares practical insights on de-stigmatizing mental health conversations, balancing technology with human connection, and the importance of staying true to your authentic leadership style.
A thoughtful conversation about strong leadership, deep student knowing, and building...
Community, Wellness, and Family Engagement with Dr. Brad Keating
Dr. Brad Keating, Associate Superintendent for Community Partnerships and Government Relations at Clark County School District (nearly 300,000 students), joins Anne Brown on The Superintendent Effect.
From Capitol Hill to the classroom and now district leadership, Dr. Keating shares how CCSD creates a “small-town feel” in a massive district through innovative parent engagement, staff wellness initiatives, and genuine community partnerships.
Highlights include:
• The emotional Ceremony of Achievement that honors parents completing 50+ hours of training
• The Night of Excellence celebrating educators and support staff
• The fun yet me...
Building Resilience and Innovation in Education with Glenn Robbins
In this episode of the The Superintendent Effect, Anne sits down with Glenn Robbins, Superintendent of Brigantine Public Schools in New Jersey, live from the AASA National Conference on Education in Nashville.Â
Glenn shares his unique journey from being a fourth-generation water well driller to becoming a leading voice in educational leadership.
We dive into his "culture-first" philosophy, exploring how his district achieved a 95% happiness and engagement rating by focusing on human capacity and positive psychology. Glenn also discusses his new book, Unclench Your Fist, which offers a look at maki...
From Rugrats to Mental Health Animation with Terry Thoren
Terry Thoren spent decades producing legendary content like The Rugrats, The Simpsons, and The Wild Thornberrys. Now, as CEO of Wonder Media, he is using his expertise to tackle the youth mental health crisis.
In this episode, Anne Brown (Cook Center for Human Connection) and Terry discuss the creation of My Life is Worth Living, the first animated series designed specifically to support teen mental health and suicide prevention. Terry explains the rigorous process of working with psychologists to "model the language" for kids who feel they don't have a voice.
<...
Why Mental Health is the Foundation of Student Success with Tobin Novasio
"If you help a family when that first child is struggling, you might be helping the second, third, and fourth child as well."
Hardin Schools Superintendent Tobin Novasio joins us to break down the "waterfall effect" of school mental health. In this episode, we explore how Montana’s first Hope Squad adopter is integrating AI-powered student support and parent coaching to create a holistic safety net for rural communities.
Inside the Episode:
The personal "why": Tobin shares his journey as a first-generation college student who navigated high sc...
Every Student, Every Day with Blake Vargas
Blake Vargas, Superintendent of Caney Valley School District, joined The Superintendent Effect at the AASA National Conference on Education to explain how he has bucked the national trend with an 11-year tenure.
In this episode, Blake shares his "Pace of Grace" approach to educator mental health, a strategy designed to attract and retain professionals in a challenging landscape. We also explore how his southeast Kansas district empowers students through a unique partnership with local community colleges, allowing high schoolers to graduate with both a diploma and an associate degree.
Whether you are a rural educator...
Protecting the Next Generation and Rural School Leadership Strategies with Dr. Joel Bailey
Summary: Can a "phone-free" school culture save a generation? Dr. Joel Bailey, Superintendent of Platte County School District in South Dakota, joins Anne Brown to discuss the future of rural education. From managing unique Hutterite colony schools to implementing a district-wide "parent coaching" model, Dr. Bailey shares how he is tackling the mental health crisis head-on.
Key Takeaways:
Tradition Meets Tech: How Hutterite colonies use advanced ag-tech while maintaining K-8 community values.
Ending the Phone Era: Lessons from The Anxious Generation and how to reclaim the school day for connection.
Leadership...
Supporting the "Umbrella" of Education Leadership with Dr. Quincie Moore
What does it take to support an entire state’s worth of educational leaders? Host Anne Brown welcomes Dr. Quincy Moore, Executive Director of the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA), to discuss the unique "umbrella" support system in South Carolina.
From high school math teacher to state-level advocate, Dr. Moore shares her career trajectory and explains why "five heads are better than one" when solving the complex problems facing today's schools.
Key Takeaways:
Comprehensive Support: SCASA provides leadership development for 34 groups, including finance, security, and in...
Dr. Gillian Chapman | From Jackson Hole to Kansas City: Leading the #1 School District in Kansas
Can human connection save our schools? Join Anne Brown for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Gillian Chapman, Superintendent of Blue Valley Unified School District. Dr. Chapman explains how her district maintains its #1 ranking in Kansas through a unique blend of "real-world" professional studies and a deep commitment to student well-being.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The CAPS Success Story: How Blue Valley’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies became a national model for industry partnerships.
Leadership at Scale: The difference between being "nimble" in small districts and "turning the barge" in large ones...
Dr. Jill Gildea | Transforming High School: Early College Pathways & Student Success
What does it take to lead a modern school system through transformative change? In this episode, we are joined by veteran educator Dr. Jill Gildea, current CEO of Colorado Early Colleges and former Superintendent of the Park City School District.
Dr. Gildea discusses her "whatever it takes" approach to student-centered learning and why she believes the future of education lies in the "Big Three": college access, industry credentials, and real-world work experience. We dive deep into her career path—from a classroom teacher to a multi-state superintendent—and her advocacy for parent coaching and mental health resources to s...
Dr. Derek Simmons: Building Strong Schools Through Mental Health, Visibility, and Culture
How do strong superintendents build strong communities?
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown talks with Dr. Derek Simmons, Superintendent of Caroline County Public Schools in Maryland, about leadership, mental health, and culture in today’s schools. Dr. Simmons shares how his rural district has improved academic outcomes, reduced behavior issues, supported parents and staff, and rebuilt momentum after the pandemic.
From investing in mental health resources for families and educators to prioritizing visibility and joy in leadership, this conversation offers practical insights for superintendents, school leaders, and anyone invested in the future of...
Dr. Justin Henry: Growth, Mental Health, and Career Pathways
Superintendent Justin Henry shares his insights on building a thriving school district in Kansas. From innovative career pathways and STEM programs to mental health initiatives for students and staff, this episode explores the strategies behind long-term educational leadership.
Learn how Justin’s 15-year tenure has shaped student success, empowered staff, and fostered a supportive community.
Key Topics:
Career pathways and STEM education
Staff recruitment, retention, and professional development
Mental health support for students and staff
Leadership longevity and community impact
Perfect for: Educators, school leaders, pa...
Dr. Andrea Norman: Leading a High-Achieving School District
In this episode, Anne Brown talks with Dr. Andrea Norman, the new superintendent of Carlsbad Unified School District, home to more than 11,000 students in Southern California. Dr. Norman shares her unexpected path to becoming superintendent, the district’s unique “basic aid” funding model, and the work behind supporting both high-achieving and Title I schools. A great listen for education leaders, district teams, and anyone interested in strong school-community partnerships.
Dr. Sharon Pepukayi: Preparing Students for Career, College & Life
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, Anne Brown talks with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools in Maryland, about leadership, school culture, mental health, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Pepukayi discusses her path from classroom teacher to superintendent, the mentors who shaped her career, and her district’s strategic plan—Align by 2029—focused on academic growth, staffing, community engagement, and student wellbeing.
You’ll hear insights on:• Strengthening mental health and wellness for staff and students• Building student advisory groups and elevating student voice• Preventing educator burnout• Supporting famil...
Krestin Bahr: Preparing Students for the Future with AI, Innovation, and Leadership
In this episode of The Superintendent Effect, host Anne Brown speaks with Kristen Barr, Superintendent of Peninsula School District (WA), about preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
Kristen shares how her district is integrating AI, project-based learning, outdoor education, and aviation career pathways to help students thrive in the future economy. She also reflects on the importance of mental health, leadership sustainability, and creating school systems that embrace innovation rather than fear it.
Whether you’re a district leader, educator, or parent, this conversation offers a grounded, forward-looking perspective on what it means to le...
Dr. Matthew Friedman: Innovative Leadership and Student Success
Join Anne Brown, President & CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, as she speaks with Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent of Quakertown Community School District in Pennsylvania, about transforming K–12 education. Recognized as the Innovative Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Friedman shares his approach to preparing students for a rapidly changing global marketplace, using the Riasec framework to help students identify their strengths and interests from kindergarten through high school.
In this episode, learn how Quakertown is building a culture of belonging and collaboration, implementing a Portrait of a Graduate, and integrating computational thinking and design thinking ac...
Dr. Ingrida Barker: From Latvia to West Virginia & Transforming Rural Education
How do you lead a district through poverty, natural disasters, and teacher shortages — and still find hope?
In this episode, Dr. Ingrida Barker, Superintendent of McDowell County Schools (WV), joins Anne Brown from the Cook Center for Human Connection to share how her team is transforming rural education through creativity, community, and care.
Dr. Barker opens up about:
Growing up in Latvia and finding her purpose in the West Virginia
Leading trauma-informed schools that prioritize mental health
Launching “Grow Your Own” to solve teacher shortages
Turning crisis into o...
