Building Blocks

Dr. Berger sits down with Dr. Chenda Moore, Coordinator of Guidance Services for Pearland ISD, to explore the role of the counseling department in shaping the academic, emotional, and social development of students. Dr. Moore shares her vision for the district’s counseling program, the challenges on the horizon, and innovative strategies to address the growing mental health needs of students. Disc...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jim Johnson, President of the Pearland Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the Chamber's role in supporting local businesses, fostering economic growth, and its partnership with Pearland ISD. Dr. Berger and Mr. Johnson explore the vital connection between Pearland ISD and the city’s business development efforts. Finally, Mr. Johnson highlights Pearland Day in Aust...

In this engaging episode of the Building Blocks Podcast , we take a ride with Anthony Porcarello, a dedicated school bus driver for Pearland ISD and a professional musician. Anthony shares what he loves most about his role, the safety measures he follows to ensure students' well-being and the challenges behind maintaining punctual routes. He offers a heartfelt perspective on the importance of...

In this insightful episode of the Building Blocks Podcast , we sit down with Pearland ISD School Psychologist Dr. Michael Brandon to explore the critical role school psychologists play in fostering student well-being. Dr. Brandon shares a behind-the-scenes look at his day-to-day responsibilities, the common challenges students face, and how he collaborates with educators, parents, and administrato...

In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast , we shine a spotlight on the Dawson High School Band and Catalyst Color Guard, showcasing the dedication and achievements that make these programs extraordinary. We hear from Mr. Tom Bell, a former band director and now Fine Arts Director, alongside Dawson Band Director, Mr. Aaron Brown. They reflect on proud moments, share insights into their philos...

Dr. Berger sits down with newly elected State Representative Jeff Barry. Representative Barry shares what it’s like to navigate the start of this new position and addresses anticipated challenges. He shares his strategies for turning obstacles into opportunities for meaningful progress. Tune in for an engaging conversation that offers a candid look at the inner workings of public service and a hop...

In this episode of the Building Blocks podcast, Dr. Berger sits down with Emmy-winning sports reporter and Dawson High School alumnus Chance Johnson. He highlights the importance of preparation, hard work, and perseverance in achieving his goals. Mr. Johnson emphasizes the value of early hands-on experience and credits Dawson High School and his AV Production teacher, Producer Mac, for providing h...

In this festive Thanksgiving episode of the Building Blocks Podcast , Berger and Producer Mac share a fun and heartfelt conversation to celebrate the season of gratitude. They take turns asking each other Thanksgiving-inspired questions. Tune in for laughter, reflections on thankfulness and holiday cheer as we dive into the stories that make this season special. It’s perfect for listening while pr...

In this episode, Dr. Berger sits down with Mrs. Bhavani Venkataramanan, a teacher at Pearland Junior High West. She shares the influences and motivations that shaped her career path, offering inspiring stories and actionable advice for educators at every stage of their careers. If you haven’t had a chance to meet Mrs. Venkataramanan, you’ll feel like you have after this episode.  Have questions or...

Dr. Berger chats with Athul Mathew, the 2024 ESC Employee of the Year and a Turner College and Career High School alum. Our guest shares what inspired him to pursue a career in technology support and reflects on how his passion for tech in Pearland ISD serves as a way to give back to his teachers for what they did for him.  Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form: https://www.p...

Dr. Berger sits down with Dr. Susana Franco-Fuenmayor, the Director of Multilingual Programs, to discuss Pearland ISD's Dual Language and ESL (English as a Second Language) programs. She highlights these two key programs and their roles in supporting multilingual students. Listeners will hear about the unique challenges and successes Pearland ISD has experienced in implementing Dual Language...

Jasmine Johnson, the 2024 Elementary Teacher of the Year, sat down with Dr. Berger for a conversation. Mrs. Johnson, who teaches second grade at Shadycrest Elementary, shares advice for new teachers, strategies to avoid burnout, and her most rewarding moments. Her energy and passion on the microphone reflect the same enthusiasm she brings to the classroom. Parents, teachers, and students—grab a cu...

In this special episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, we sit down with Anthony Tupper to dive into the rich history behind the names of our schools. Anthony shares captivating stories about the remarkable individuals for whom our local schools are named, highlighting their contributions to the community, education, and beyond. Their values continue to inspire students and educators alike who wal...

Every year, the Pearland ISD Education Foundation Gala features a live auction. One of last year's auction items was the opportunity to appear on the Building Blocks Podcast. This year's winner, Lexi Dahlkamp, a Pearland Junior High West student, takes the spotlight. Watch how this eighth grader handles Dr. Berger's questions—and even poses a few of her own! To learn more about the...

In this episode of Building Blocks, Dr. Joseph Cahill, Pearland ISD's Advanced Academics Director, provides Dr. Berger with an overview of Advanced Academics. They discuss a new initiative focused on depth and complexity, the process for identifying gifted and talented students, and a mentorship program for future high schoolers.  Have questions or an episode suggestion, fill out this form: h...

The new Executive Director of Safe and Secure Schools, John Palombo, pulls up a seat to the mic and shares his vision for ensuring the safety and security of all students and staff. Palombo also discusses the plan to mitigate social media threats, outlines his top priorities, and explains how addressing school safety requires a multi-faceted approach. Pearland ISD's Safe & Secure website:...

RISE Mentoring is a school-based program where committed, caring adults from the community help students rise above obstacles and succeed in both school and life. In this episode, Pearland ISD's Student Mentor Specialist, Mandy Benedix, shares the vision of the RISE Mentor Program, success stories, and how you can get involved to become a mentor yourself. To learn more about RISE Mentoring, v...

In celebration of Attendance Awareness Month, the Outreach Team sat down with Dr. Berger to explain how their efforts help remove the barriers preventing students from attending school. While school attendance is important and required by law,  Outreach builds bridges between students and parents, creating lasting connections that keep students engaged.  By listening to this podcast, you'll g...

Melissa Ward, the Director of Testing & Program Evaluation at Pearland ISD, sits down with Dr. Berger to discuss STAAR, College and Career Readiness, state assessment results and the various analytics involved in interpreting test results. Whether you're a teacher, student, parent or community member, this podcast will help you understand how test results are used within our district. To...

The Pearland Livestock Show and Career Expo is a community event where students exhibit livestock, showcase career talents, and compete for scholarships and awards in art, culinary contests, and livestock shows featuring lambs, goats, swine and cattle. In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, James Gilbert, the board president of the Pearland Livestock Show and Career Expo, and Mike Akin, t...

Aliana Wynn pulls up a chair to the mic and discusses her new role as the Director of Communications. The conversation centers around Wynn's top priority: the Pearland community. She aims to communicate effectively, by being open to new and creative ideas.  If you would like to contact the communications team email us at communications@pearlandisd.org. Have questions or an episode suggestion,...

Dr. Larry Berger brings in Dawn Lyssy, Pearland ISD's Director of Elementary Instruction, to give a quick lesson on the five components of reading, the initiatives Pearland ISD is implementing, and how Pearland ISD supports students struggling with reading. They also discuss ways parents and guardians can get involved in supporting their child's reading development. Have questions or an...

Season 2 kicks off with Dr. Berger sitting down with Pearland ISD's PTA president, Jennifer Thompson. Mrs. Thompson explains what the PTA is all about and shares how parents can get involved with their child's school, highlighting the various volunteer opportunities available. As the legislative session approaches, Mrs. Thompson guides us on how to advocate for Pearland ISD. Mark your ca...

Dr. Berger and Producer Mac celebrate their 25th Building Blocks episode. With employees taking off for the 4th of July, they decide to interview each other. They go off the cuff and ask each other surprise questions that dive into their lives in and out of working for Pearland ISD. Questions include how the podcast started, why Dr. Berger is a Chiefs fan, and what Producer Mac loves most about he...

Crystal Carbone, the Pearland ISD School Board President, takes a seat at the table with Dr. Berger in this episode of Building Blocks. Mrs. Carbone shares her vision and insights for the upcoming school year and sheds light on the most misunderstood aspects of being a school board member. She provides valuable advice on engaging parents, students, and community members in the decision-making proc...