Leaders Saving Lives

In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Hans Schmitz, Director of MTSS at Manteca Unified School District in California. Together, they dive into the complex world of student safety and mental health, exploring crisis intervention, trauma-informed practices, and the multi-layered support systems that help protect and empower kids, especially those most at risk. You’ll hear about the un...

In this episode of Leaders Saving Lives, host Todd Schmid sits down with David Wildy, Chief Technology Officer at Dublin Unified School District, for a practical and eye-opening conversation about student safety, cybersecurity, and the realities of keeping students protected in an always-connected world. David breaks down how Dublin Unified approaches digital citizenship, cybersecurity communicati...

In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Paul Frisina, Executive Director of Special Education and Student Support Services at Sulphur Springs Union School District in Santa Clarita, California. Paul shares his 25-year journey from school psychologist to district leader and offers a firsthand look at how his K–6 district is addressing today’s growing mental health needs. We explore the...

Today’s episode features Jim Anderson, Director of Student Support Services at Arcadia Unified School District in California. With nearly 10,000 students in his care, Anderson shares how his district is building a proactive culture of student safety and mental health, tackling one of the most urgent challenges facing schools today. From suicide prevention policies and crisis teams to wellness cent...

In today’s episode, host Todd Schmid sits down with Jessica Swift, Director of Student Services at Morgan Hill Unified School District in California. Jessica shares his inspiring journey from science teacher to district leader, and gives us an inside look at how Morgan Hill is tackling today’s mental health challenges head-on. We dig deep into the process of building comprehensive wellness centers...

In today's episode, our host, Ray Bledsoe, sits down with Dr. Katie Ahsell, the Assistant Superintendent of Community Consolidated School District 59 located in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Dr. Ahsell brings a wealth of experience in education, particularly in creating and implementing multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) and fostering inclusive learning environments. Together, they dive into th...

Creating a safe and supportive environment is essential for student well-being. Dr. Lee Vi Moses, Director of Student Services at Belton ISD, will discuss student safety and socio-emotional support. Moses shares how his team provides crucial counseling services for emotional well-being and post-graduation readiness, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion includes proactive digi...

“At Wylie ISD, safety and student well-being are commitments that build trust within our community.” Scott Winn, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services at Wylie ISD in Texas. With over 30 years in education, Scott emphasizes the district's focus on safety and student well-being under David Vinson's leadership. Scott highlights Wylie ISD’s proactive measures, including the unique 80/20 rule f...

“Creating a safe, connected, and supportive environment is foundational to student success” Today's guest, Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora, the President of TASA, and first female superintendent of Tomball ISD, joins host Ray Bledsoe. Dr. Zamora shares insights on addressing students' emotional well-being, proactive safety measures, and innovative strategies to combat bullying and enhance digital securi...

Learn how to identify the students who need your help the most to proactively prevent crises and save student lives. Welcome to Leaders Saving Lives, the podcast that meets with K-12 district leaders to explore innovative strategies and stories from the field, all committed to the safety and well-being of their students and schools. Leaders Saving Lives is hosted by Ray Bledsoe of Gaggle. Gaggle i...