Aspire: The Leadership Development Podcast

In this new BONUS episode, we learn from Dave’s story of failure as he tried to be the only one to save the campus with ALL the answers. He quickly found out that this was a direct route to failure.  About Dave Schmittou: As an educator for more than two decades, Dave has earned a reputation for being a disruptor of the status quo, an innovator, and a change agent. Having served as a classroom teacher, school-based administrator, central office director, and professor of Educational Leadership, he often uses real-life stories and examples of his own life and career to describe why and how we need to confront “the way we have always done it.” He is now the Director of Leadership and Development with the Teach Better Team where he speaks, consults, and partners with districts around the country.  He has written multiple books, including “It’s Like Riding a Bike: How to make learning last a lifetime”,  “Bold Humility”,  “Making Assessment Work for Educators Who Hate Data but Love Kids”, and “Poking the Bear”.

In this week’s episode, Martin Silverman shares the importance, as a leader, on focusing on the teachers so they can focus on the students.  In this episode, we discuss: Improving Teacher Retention The Longevity of a Principal And his upcoming book.  About Martin Silverman: Martin Silverman is a father, grandfather, husband, and long-time educator in beautiful San Antonio, Texas.  He is committed to providing the best educational experience for the students and families at Salinas Elementary school where he is the principal.  Martin has worked as a teacher and administrator in urban, suburban, and rural districts.  His interests are creating and nurturing school culture, providing enriching experiences for students and families, and developing future teachers and administrators.  As a former bilingual teacher and administrator,  Martin is committed to providing ELL students with quality programs to develop their unique skills.  He hosts a podcast called The Second Question, which highlights educators

The Aspire Mailbag In this 28th Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions on the interview process and the latest news with the Teach Better Team! Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper Follow Jeff Gargas: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffgargas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ Follow Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Teach Better Conference: www.teachbetterconference.com Use Coupon Code "ASPIRE" for $50 dollars off your registration Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter: https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam Website: https://www.te

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to a fantastic leader who was in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  I have two guests this episode and both are Principals who participated in Toddles School Leaders Bootcamps! My first guest is Ashleigh Woodard, who is located in Canada, and right after that I had the wonderful opportunity to speak with Golfdan, who is located in Egypt.  Follow Ashleigh Goodward Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsWoodward337 OFFICIAL Sponsor of the Aspire to Lead Podcast! This episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! If you want to learn more, head over to Tod

In this week’s episode, Bobby Pollicino shares how a transformation of self improvement practices allowed him to develop an important set of leadership principles.  In this episode, we discuss: Relationship Principles Fitness: Mental, Physical, Spiritual Decision Making as a leader And his book, Principled Leader About Bobby Pollicino: Bobby Pollicino is the Head of Upper School at Bullis School in Potomac, MD. He has served as a school administrator for over 15 years, also in dean of students and assistant principal roles. He has taught high school courses in science, leadership, and public speaking while also serving as a varsity assistant soccer coach and varsity head coach of the lacrosse program at Bullis School. Bobby’s academic leadership career is grounded in a healthy interest in leadership which has led to conferences with Stanley King Institute, Garnder, Carney Leadership Institute, and a fellowship with Leadership+Design. Bobby has presented for local and national organizations

In this week’s episode, Henry Turner shares his experience as a young leader and how he learned to listen to his students during a tough time in the community. As a building Principal, Henry has built a strong communication systems to enhance the voices of his students, parents, and community members. In this episode, we discuss: Strategies to Empower Students Evaluation for Culturally Responsive Practices And his book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School About Henry J. Turner: Henry J. Turner is an award-winning high school principal, author, and nationally renowned speaker.  He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K12 Principal of the Year by K–12 Dive. Henry is the author of the newly released book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School, pub

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to a fantastic leader who was in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  My guest, Katie Ahmadzai, is a Principal located in the United States and attended the Toddle School Leaders Bootcamp. We will be learning about her journey as a young leader of an international virtual school, which serves students from all over the world. Follow Katie Ahmadzai: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AhmadzaiKatie New OFFICIAL Sponsor of the Aspire to Lead Podcast! This episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! This year, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gatherin

In this week’s episode, Manny Curiel shares how he used his own experiences of overcoming a language barrier to construct emotional attachments to the reading content and lessons.  In this episode, we discuss: Incorporating engaging video techniques Breaking through the fear of technology And all the wonderful ways to use Edpuzzle  About Manny Curiel: Super Manny is the global Community Manager at Edpuzzle. He travels the world loving on teachers and reminding them to share their shine. Prior to Edpuzzle, Super Manny was a bilingual teacher. He taught 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade. When he discover Twitter it open world of opportunities and managed to snatched a job as a EdTech Specialist at his school district  Follow Manny Curiel: Twitter: @MannyDiscoTech Best way! Instagram: @MannyDiscoTech Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mannycuriel/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MannyCuriel  Other: “What is new in Edpuzzle 2023” https://youtu.be/54dILqyfjt8  Edpuzzle Certified Coach https://lea

The #1 question CJ Reynolds gets from teachers is "What classroom management strategies do you use?" So here are some of his daily practices to make sure your classroom runs smoothly. He also threw in a few weird ones just to get your creativity going. In this episode, we discuss: Student Management Techniques How to handle unengaged and defiant students And his YouTube Videos, Real Rap with Reynolds About CJ Reynolds: Mr. Reynolds is a West Philadelphia high school literature teacher, author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being. Follow CJ Reynolds: Twitter: https://twitter.com/realrapreynolds Website: https://www.realrapw

This BONUS episode is sponsored by Toddle. Toddle is an all-in-one teaching and learning platform used by over 40,000 educators around the world! On March 3rd and 4th, Toddle hosted the largest virtual gathering for school leaders across the globe with 5000+ school leaders in attendance. Today we are going to speak to two fantastic educators who were in attendance to provide their takeaways and insights from the many wonderful presentations offered.  My first guest is Adam Hill, a Principal located in China. Adam's school uses the Toddle platform and he attends as many Toddle online events as possible. We will be learning about his journey as he just started a brand new school and is implementing future ready and STEM practices on his campus.  Follow Adam Hill: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamHillEDU  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamhilledu/  My second guest is Annette de Graaf, an aspiring leader located in the Netherland’s as she too attended the Toddle School Leaders bootcamp. In this con

In this week’s episode, Maria Barrera shares how she discovered a mental health crisis and was determined to help solve the issues that were affecting students, teachers, and the community.  In this episode, we discuss: Creating a business based on a community need Partnering with schools to assist in crisis Resources to battle mental health  About Maria Barrera: Maria is the founder of Clayful, a company on a mission to help kids build the skills and resilience to tackle anything that comes their way.  Throughout her career in education, technology, and human resources, she has always been focused on solving big problems in complex systems. Now, she is tackling the biggest problem of all - the mental health crisis.  Maria's dedication to helping others is rooted in her own experiences. She ran her first coaching session when she was just 15, and has always found joy in coaching others through everyday life stressors and challenges. Her passion for education led her to start a tutoring company whil

In this bonus episode, Dr. Brenda Diaz shares how traditional student discipline didn’t improve the students behavior and the shift her campus made to implement relationship building strategies and restorative practices.  In this episode, we discuss: Trauma-informed practices Increasing diversity among educators Toddle’s School Leader Bootcamp! About Dr. Brenda Diaz: As the Executive Principal of Nashville Big Picture High School in Nashville TN, Dr. Brenda leads with love, courage, and moral character.   With an almost 30-year career in education she believes strongly in small, personalized caring learning environments that allow all students, especially those who are from underserved and/or marginalized communities, to pursue their passions and interests connected to the real-world, which prepares them to attend college and/or pursue post-secondary experiences.  Brenda received her bachelor’s degree in English from Rust College, a Historical Black College; Masters in Curriculum and Instruction fro

In this new BONUS episode, we learn from Kim’s story of failure as she was honest and authentic with her Superintendent, which left her feeling disappointed and disheartened.  About Kim Gameroz: Kim Gameroz is a change agent for schools and districts who seek to revolutionize classrooms by taking on a systematic approach to teaching social and emotional skills. For over 15 years, Kim has coached, trained, and mentored teachers, students, and families around the globe. She was invited to speak at Social Thinking’s Global Provider’s Conference in San Francisco, as well as Get Your Teach On’s Rock Your School and PBIScon22 for PBIS Rewards. She has also consulted for school districts and families in need of social and emotional support, served on SEL panels for the Cotsen Art of Teaching Foundation, and has appeared on various webinars and podcasts with leaders and companies near and far. She holds a Bachelors in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach, and a Masters in Education from National Un

In this week’s episode, Ipek Williamson shares the benefits and power of emotional regulation, mindfulness, and meditation, which creates peaceful and harmonious classrooms. In this episode, we discuss: Meditation’s support for mental health issues Cultivating awareness on the positive impact of meditation and mindfulness among educators Introducing new generations to the importance of knowing their values and implementing them into their lives  And her children's book! About Ipek Williamson: Ipek Williamson is the Founder and CEO of Ipek Williamson Coaching. She is a Change Master, Listener, Certified Insight Coach, Speaker, Author, Ikigai and Ho'oponopono Practitioner, and Meditation Advocate & Teacher. She perfectly blends her 20+ years of corporate experience with diversified areas of expertise as a coach, mentor and teacher. As one of the Education 2.0 2022 Outstanding Leadership award winners, Ipek focuses on projects and efforts toward creating a nurturing education environment for the

In this bonus episode, Jim Laird shares the story of Canyon Falls Middle School, an innovative, 21st-century learning school in Kelowna, and the purposeful educational transformation focus on engaging students and stakeholders. As an entire school community, they created a middle school that was unique, innovative, and learner-centered.  This episode is intended to share the engagement strategy, leadership moves, and process that created a school culture involving all stakeholders, guided by the voices that matter most – the learners and their families. In this episode, we discuss: Design thinking school model Community engagement strategies And Innovative approaches to education About Jim Laird: As a public school educator in British Columbia for 20 years, Jim Laird has spent most of his career in Central Okanagan, Canada. Currently the principal of George Elliot Secondary School in Lake Country, he recently spent three years as a principal in Canyon Falls, Kelowna, opening and establishing an innov

In this week’s episode, Alfonso Mendoza shares his philosophies of improvising, adapting and overcoming obstacles in education. As a tech leader, Alfonso has seen a major shift the past few years and he continues to spread his message of “keeping it simple”.  In this episode, we discuss: Tech Implementation: Getting Clicky With It Immersive Technology of ARVR AI & Chat GPT in schools And his podcast, My Ed Tech Life! About Alfonso Mendoza: Alfonso Mendoza Jr., a passionate educator with over a decade of experience, holds a Masters in Educational Technology and is in his third year of doctoral studies. With the aim of providing engaging and effective learning experiences, Mr. Mendoza has served as the district Instructional Technologist for six years now, equipping teachers with tech tools to enhance student learning. His commitment to education does not end there; for the last six years, he actively participates on many social media platforms sharing his expertise through podcasts, blogs, and o

In this bonus episode, Carolina Ulloa shares how she ventured to build a brand new school that focused on the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of every student. Join us as we discuss this incredible journey of constructing an educational environment that connects to the children and the community.  In this episode, we discuss: The Rhythmic Arts Project Development of Community Service Project And the Curriculum Development of this New School About Carolina Ulloa: Carolina Ulloa, vice president at Rhythmic Arts Project and co-founder of Mine School, believes we should expect intelligence and embrace people for who they are. Carolina is an educator by nature and at heart. She combines curiosity and wonder with belief in people, and believes that we should all set high expectations. Carolina plants the seed of possibility in students, teachers, and families. She designs and creates a path for the growth, learning, and well-being of students. Education is her life, and through her commitment to

In this week’s episode, Ashley Hubner shares how she transitioned from teacher to coach, struggled to develop a Coaching Mindset and the impact of intentional curriculum design.  In this episode, we discuss: The difficulties of leaving the classroom Differentiating for adults and finding success as a coach And her new book, Foundations of Instructional Coaching! About Ashley Hubner: Ashley Hubner is a passionate educator who values relationships. She started her career as an elementary school teacher, then transitioned into an interventionist role where she found her love and passion for supporting educators like her. Since then, she has grown her expertise as an instructional leader dedicated to helping teachers thrive within the classroom. She is committed to impacting student growth by building capacity within schools through coaching, mentoring, and professional development. She enjoys working with stakeholders to build instructional effectiveness within classrooms while cultivating a positive sc

In this 27th Aspire Mailbag episode, Jeff Gargas and I answer questions on different leadership topics provided by the listeners. Please join us for this episode as we answer questions on sustaining staff happiness, creating leadership growth, gaining support of your Superintendent, and the latest news with the Teach Better Team! Featuring Jeff Gargas and Joshua Stamper Follow Jeff Gargas: Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffgargas Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jeffgargas/ Follow Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2 Follow The Teach Better Team: Twitter: https://twitter.com/teachbetterteam Website: https://www.teachbetter.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teachbettert

In this week’s episode, Michael and Sam discuss how they changed the perception of a technology coach, pushed the scope of their impact on instruction, and differentiated their professional development to meet the needs of the teachers.  In this episode, we discuss: Building relationships with their teachers and staff to serve effectively Expanding the role of technology in the classroom And the TCEA conference presentations! About Michael Vick: I have been an educator for 12 years. I’ve been a Digital Learning Coach, Instructional Technology Facilitator, Online Algebra Teacher, 8th Grade Math Teacher, and Special Education Resource Teacher. For the last 7 years, I’ve been involved with digital learning.  I pride myself on always helping teachers get to the next step in their digital learning journey. Whether that means becoming proficient in a specific digital tool, an idea for making a lesson more meaningful for students, or ways to integrate more technology into the day to day classroom activitie