Magna AI

In this episode, Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Dr. Theron Schutte, superintendent of the Marshalltown Community School District in Iowa, to dive into what it takes to lead a district through change, innovation, and crisis. With more than four decades in education, Dr. Theron Schutte shares his journey from classroom teacher to district leader, reflecting on how his approach to supporting teacher...

In this episode, Dr. Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Dr. Kelly Coffin, Superintendent of Farmington Public Schools, to explore how forward-thinking district leadership can transform assessment practices and elevate student success. Drawing on her experience leading a high-performing district, Dr. Coffin shares how Farmington is rethinking traditional approaches to testing, instruction, and teacher...

In today’s episode, host Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Brent Vermeulen, Principal of Illiana Christian High School in Indiana. Brent shares his journey from engineering teacher to school leader and reflects on how school culture, relationships, and innovation shape daily life for both students and teachers. They explore what it means to build trust in a growing school, how to celebrate both acad...

In today’s episode, host Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Patrick Keating, principal of Baden High School. Patrick shares his journey from classroom teacher to school leader, offering candid insights into how Catholic schools can scale enrollment while staying rooted in mission. They explore the challenges and opportunities that come with rapid growth, including how Baden has expanded from under 45...

In this episode, host Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Karen Oliver , Chief Academic Officer at Options Schools in Indiana. With decades of experience spanning classroom teaching, instructional coaching, and district leadership, Karen shares her journey from journalism student to educational leader dedicated to alternative education. Together, they explore how Options Schools are supporting teacher...

In today’s episode, host Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Paul Knapstein, a seasoned educator and principal with more than three decades of experience, most of it spent in Catholic schools. Paul shares the story of his journey from classroom teacher to school leader, offering unique insights into what truly supports teachers and fosters student success. They dive into the practical strategies behin...

In this episode, host Sarvesh Bhardwaj sits down with Kelly Cota, a lifelong educator and the K-12 Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator for Cedar Falls Community School District in Iowa. With over 26 years of experience, Kelly shares her journey through the education system, from classroom teaching to state-level consulting. Together, they explore the evolving challenges of curriculum alignment,...

In our very first episode of the Magna AI Podcast , host Sarvesh Bhardwaj, PhD sits down with Michael Novak , Assistant Superintendent at Northern Highlands Regional High School and Adjunct Professor at Ramapo College. With 20 years of experience spanning the classroom and district leadership, Michael shares how teacher support has evolved from simple resource delivery to building trust, culture,...