Brighter Together

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Eden Guthrie, the Special Education Coordinator at Georgetown ISD. We delve into the transformative journey of special needs students as they progress towards becoming independent professionals. Eden shares insights from her 27 years of experience, emphasizing the importance of fostering independence through hands-on practice and real-world ski...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Jeff Punches, the superintendent of East Jackson Community Schools in Michigan. We delve into the challenges of rebuilding a community impacted by economic recession, focusing on the importance of leadership, resilience, and mentorship in education. Jeff shares his journey from educator to superintendent, highlighting the diverse needs of his s...

🏫 Rural Education Revolution: Breaking Barriers, Building Futures In a powerful conversation that challenges conventional thinking about rural education, Superintendent Loren Glasbrenner reveals the extraordinary strategies transforming small-town schools from struggling institutions to dynamic learning ecosystems. His innovative approach proves that zip code doesn't determine educational destiny...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Devin Thomas, the co-director and principal of STREAM Charter Schools in Oroville, California. Devin shares his journey from stepping into leadership to shaping a thriving educational environment. He discusses the transition he faced when taking over from the school's founder and how he has built upon the strong foundation laid before him. We e...

Breaking the Cycle: Empowering Students with Disabilities Beyond the Classroom What happens when we stop seeing special education as a destination and start treating it as a launching pad for meaningful, independent adult lives? In this groundbreaking episode, Dr. Ryan Wheeler challenges everything you thought you knew about transitional services for students with disabilities. As the Executive Di...

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Julie Harris, the Director of Student Services at Pulaski Community Schools in Wisconsin. We dive deep into the transformative strategies that some of the best districts employ to address behavior challenges, insights that took many years to develop. Dr. Harris shares her experiences in refining multi-tiered systems of support...

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Toni Shaw, the Director of Student Services at St. Augustine Preparatory Academy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Together, we delve into the transformative power of faith in education, particularly for scholars with disabilities. Dr. Shaw shares her insights on addressing the achievement gap faced by these students and highlights the...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Denise Geiger, the Senior Transition Coordinator for special education at Leander ISD in Texas. Denise shares her profound journey in transitioning students from school to adulthood, emphasizing the importance of early transition planning. She reflects on moving beyond compliance to empower students with a strong voice in their own lives. Denis...

In this conversation, Janet Courtney sits down with Steve Rosa — superintendent and principal of Pine Ridge Elementary School — to explore how a school truly becomes the heart of a community. From the devastation of the 2020 Creek Fire to the ongoing challenges of COVID‑19, Steve shares how Pine Ridge’s resilience was tested — and strengthened — through the power of relationships, service, and unw...

What happens when students lead the charge toward inclusion? In this inspiring episode of Brighter Together, Megan Hsu—Special Education Program Manager at Sunnyvale Elementary School District—shares how her district is turning traditional inclusion on its head. With a powerful 'reverse inclusion' model, general education students are stepping into special education classrooms—and becoming advocat...

In this episode of Brighter Together, join me, Janet Courtney, as I sit down with Jan Masterson, a specialist in induction and mentoring for new teachers at Leander ISD in Texas. Jan shares her passion for supporting new educators and emphasizes the importance of building confidence and community in the teaching profession. We discuss the challenges faced by new teachers, including the struggle wi...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Taylor Stanton, the superintendent of the Museum School District in San Diego, to explore the transformative power of individualized learning. Taylor shares insights on how their small charter school fosters a growth mindset among educators while prioritizing hands-on, project-based learning that integrates the arts. We discuss the challenges t...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Marty Remmers, the Director of San Joaquin County SELPA, to explore the crucial role of Special Education Local Plan Areas in supporting students, schools, and educational systems. We delve into what SELPAs do, the resources they provide, and how they navigate the diverse needs of different districts. Marty shares insights on the importance of...

In this enlightening episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Gina Lynch, the superintendent of Palmdale Aerospace Academy, to explore innovative approaches in education that prepare students for the future. Gina shares her journey to leadership and the unique challenges of managing a charter school deeply rooted in the aerospace industry. We discuss the impact of STEAM (science, technology,...

How do you prepare students for life after high school when the world wasn’t built with them in mind? In this episode, Kari Radzik, Transition Coordinator at Mattawan Consolidated Schools, shares how her 18–21-year-old students are thriving through vocational training, community partnerships, and fiercely personalized support. From making hotel beds to handling customer service, these students are...

What if school looked nothing like what we’re used to? In this inspiring episode, Superintendent Mark Odsather shares how Pleasant View Elementary School District has fully transformed traditional education into a vibrant, project-based learning environment. With open classrooms, integrated special education, and students as young as TK designing financial literacy projects, Pleasant View is provi...

Join me in this enlightening episode of Brighter Together as I speak with Paul Hungerford, the superintendent of Gratiot Isabella Regional Educational Service District in rural Michigan. Paul shares his vision for equitable access in education, emphasizing that every student, regardless of their background or location, should have the opportunity to realize their dreams. We explore the innovative...

What does it really take to lead a small, rural school district in a way that feels bold, equitable, and visionary? In this episode of Brighter Together, Dr. Nicolas Wade, Superintendent of Columbia Union School District, shares how his team is flipping expectations for what rural education can look like. From building trust and equity to integrating AI and launching expansive student support prog...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Ira Porche, the superintendent of Tulare City School District, who shares his inspiring journey of never leaving the community that raised him. Ira reflects on the importance of education in a predominantly low socioeconomic area and the close-knit, supportive environment that defines Tulare. He discusses the challenges faced in education, part...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Javier Bolivar, the superintendent of Adelante Charter School District in Santa Barbara, California. We explore the transformative power of bilingual education and how it is not merely a barrier, but a superpower for students. Javier shares insights into the school’s dual immersion program, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, and h...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I speak with Dr. Holly Lambert, the director of student services at Ingram ISD, about the profound impact of the devastating floods that struck Kerrville, Texas, on July 4th. Despite the national media coverage fading, the community continues to grapple with the aftermath. Dr. Lambert shares invaluable insights into the leadership lessons learned during this c...

In this episode, Dr. Dana Bashara, Superintendent of Alamo Heights ISD, opens up about what it really takes to lead during times of loss, scrutiny, and systemic failure. She shares how her district faced $5 million in cuts without losing sight of its culture—and how redefining accountability around community, character, and care has transformed more than test scores. This conversation is a call to...

In this inspiring episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Dr. Yolanda Vazquez, the Director of Student Support Services at Monarch River Academies and Yosemite Valley Charter Schools in California. Dr. Vazquez shares her journey of transforming school culture from merely surviving to thriving by emphasizing connection and care. We dive into the innovative programs she's developed, including...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Scott Kilgore, the superintendent of Ingleside ISD, to explore his innovative framework for supporting both students and staff. With a remarkable 100% graduation rate, Ingleside ISD stands out for its commitment to preparing students for success in a heavy industry community. Scott shares insights on the importance of career and technical educa...

In this episode of Brighter Together, I sit down with Jeff Byrd, the superintendent of Dalhart Independent School District in Texas. We discuss the vital link between education and community vitality, exploring how a strong school system can uplift a rural community. Jeff shares innovative programs that prioritize positive communication with parents and foster local talent through a "Grow Your Own...