The GVA Way

Tom and Russ discuss the GVA Core Value of Otherishness - helping others succeed because it is the right thing to do! Note: This content was created during a previous school year.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA's Core Value of Purpose - acting intentionally to create safe, loved, and learning communities. Note: this content was created during a previous school year.

Tom and Russ discuss the GVA Core Value of Growth - practicing, reflecting, and improving every day. Note: This content was created during a previous school year.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #10, that student success is most likely to occur when collaboration and mutual respect exist amongst students, staff, and families.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #9, that assessment is a tool for feedback, reflection, and collaboration that supports student growth.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #8, that a uniquely positive school climate is built through character education, high expectations, skill building, and accountability.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #7, that effective instruction is grounded in neurological research and an understanding of brain development.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #6, that mastery is not reserved for the few - it is an expectation for all, accomplished through practice, reflection, and personalized support.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #5, that highly dedicated and growth-oriented faculty and staff are the most important drivers of student success.

Tom and Russ discuss GVA Core Belief #4, that academic excellence is a priority, but not more than a child's well-being, character, and sense of belonging.

Join Tom and Russ as they unpack GVA Core Belief #3, that students deserve instruction that is rigorous, meaningful, and experiential.

Tom and Russ return to discuss GVA Core Belief #2, that every classroom should be a needs-fulfilling environment where relationships are prioritized.

In episode 19, Superintendent Tom Anderson and Director of Ed Services Russ Howell discuss the first of GVA's ten core beliefs, creating a safe and inclusive environment where all students - regardless of race, language, learning needs, or life experiences - are empowered to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

In Episode 19, we introduce the GVA community to new Salida principal, Kayla Jefferson. Listen and learn about her path to GVA Salida, personal interests, and more!

In Episode 18, GVA Superintendent Tom Anderson discusses the Next 3, a three year plan that identifies priority goals and actions to help GVA students and staff thrive. Listen and learn about the plan and your opportunity to help shape it.

In Episode 17, Russ speaks with veteran GVA Modesto junior high teacher, Bev Broedlow, about the importance of developing positive student behaviors and the challenges that must be overcome to do so. Is extrinsic the way to go? Is behavior more important than character? What is the "quality world" concept and how does it apply to school?

In Episode 16, Mrs. Lindsey Duran share's her vision and excitement for the TK (transitional kindergarten) program that GVA will launch in the fall. Check it out!

In today's episode, we wrap up the conversations between Russ Howell and Joy Kerr-Owens. This episode will cover Russ' transition from Salida Principal to Director of Ed Services, some of the exciting work taking place at GVA this year, as well as Russ' reasons for considering himself a "GVA Lifer." Enjoy!

In Episode 14, Megan Kubicek, GVA's Coordinator of School-based Mental Health Services, identifies five peace pillagers of the holiday season and offers strategies to help listeners increase the peace for themselves and for their families.

Episode 13 serves as an introduction to episode 14, Increase the Peace this Holiday Season. Learn from Megan Kubicek, GVA's Coordinator of School-Based Mental Health Services, as she and Russ discuss the struggles many people face during the holiday season and, more importantly, how we can increase our peace through the holidays.

In Episode 12, Joy Kerr-Owens turns the tables on Russ Howell, asking him questions about his GVA origin story and his new role as Director of Education Services and Innovation.

In Episode 11, Principal Joy Kerr-Owens shares her personal journey, her GVA journey, and her vision for the GVA Homeschool program. Additionally, we learn about some exciting GVA initiatives that have already begun and some that will be launched in the near future. NOTE: This conversation took place in the spring of '23. This lapse in time will be evident at a few points in the conversation,...

In Episode 10: Welcome, Principal de Visser!, GVA Salida principal Russ Howell welcomes Brianna de Visser to her new role as GVA Modesto principal. Listen and learn why GVA Modesto students, staff, and families should be very excited about their newest leader.

In Episode 9: Transitions, GVA principals Mike Ruehle and Russ Howell discuss a significant transition taking place on the GVA Modesto campus: Principal Ruehle's pending departure. Join them as they reflect on Mr. Ruehle's GVA journey, and find out why you should be excited about his successor.

In Episode 8: GVA Core Value of Dedication, GVA Salida Principal Russ Howell and GVA Superintendent Tom Anderson discuss the GVA Core Value of dedication. What is it? What is it not? And why is it a core value?