Best SpacesEDU by myBlueprint Podcasts (2025)

1
Doug Roberts on Rebranding Public Education, Retaining Leaders, and Building Trust Across the System 1:03:57

Play Pause

2M ago1:03:57

1:03:57

In the season finale of Season 3 of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Doug Roberts, Founder & CEO of the Institute for Education Innovation (IEI). Doug shares what he’s learned from years of working with superintendents across the country—and why retention, relationships, and rebranding public education are more urgent than ever. This episo…

1
Paul K. Smith on Community-Rooted Portrait of a Graduate and Skills That Stick for Life 1:01:16

2M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

In the twenty-second episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Paul K. Smith, Founder & CEO of SchoolWorks Consulting and former superintendent of East Hampton Public Schools. This episode explores what it takes to bring a Portrait of a Graduate to life through inclusive, community-rooted design. Paul shares his eight steps to success fr…

1
Michelle Cavazos on Student Voice, Experiential Learning, and Progress Over Perfection 52:29

3M ago52:29

52:29

In the twenty-first episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Dr. Michelle Cavazos—2024 ESC Region 2 Superintendent of the Year and Superintendent of Gregory-Portland ISD—for a powerful conversation about leading with authenticity, empowering student voice, and making progress over perfection. With 30 years in education and a deep belief…

1
Damian LaCroix on Leadership Loneliness, Reflection, and the Power of Purpose 1:11:21

4M ago1:11:21

1:11:21

In the twentieth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Damian LaCroix—former superintendent, executive coach, and education consultant—for a candid conversation about leadership loneliness and how to move through it with intention. Drawing on 33 years in education, including 19 as superintendent, Damian shares deeply personal stories…

1
Dr. Chad Lang on Family Engagement and Standards-Based Grading Reform 1:02:57

4M ago1:02:57

1:02:57

In the nineteenth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Dr. Chad Lang, Assistant Superintendent of School Improvement at Glenwood Community School District. This episode dives into what it takes to successfully lead standards-based grading reform, why clear communication with families is critical, and how building a strong adult lear…

1
Dr. Joshua Matthews on Local Accountability and Making Learning Real for Students 49:25

5M ago49:25

49:25

In the eighteenth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Dr. Joshua Matthews, Superintendent of Shelby County Public Schools. They dive into how Kentucky’s Portrait of a Learner is reshaping instruction, why local accountability matters, and how real-world programs like Ranger Academy help students connect learning to life. Josh also …

1
Jeff Petty on Rethinking Classrooms and the Power of Reflective Teaching 1:02:17

5M ago1:02:17

1:02:17

In the seventeenth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan is joined by Jeff Petty, a longtime educator, coach, and school founder affiliated with Big Picture Learning. Jeff reflects on his unconventional start in education as a mountaineering instructor and how that immersive, reflective experience shaped his view of teaching and learning. Together,…

1
Reimagining Learning with Jed Stefanowicz: From Compliance to Creativity 52:19

6M ago52:19

52:19

In this episode, we sit down with Jed Stefanowicz, Director of Digital Learning and Innovation at Nashoba Regional School District, to explore the power of content creation in education. Jed shares insights on shifting from a compliance-driven curriculum to a student-centered learning model, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy, learner c…

1
Dr. Matt Townsley on Reimagining Assessment Through Standards-Based Grading 57:11

6M ago57:11

57:11

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan speaks with Dr. Matt Townsley, associate professor of educational leadership at the University of Northern Iowa. They explore how standards-based grading provides a more meaningful diagnosis of student learning compared to traditional point-based systems. Matt shares his journey from high school math te…

1
George Philhower on Cultivating Joy and Growth Through Community-Centered Education 51:36

7M ago51:36

51:36

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan speaks with George Philhower, Superintendent of Eastern Hancock Schools in Indiana. They explore Eastern Hancock's innovative approach to education built on four key promises: joy, connection, growth, and success. George shares insights on hosting the Joy Jam conference, transitioning from teacher evalu…

1
Brenda Pena on Building Holistic Student Support Through Social-Emotional Learning 1:01:09

7M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan speaks with Brenda Pena, Director of Mental Health, Social-Emotional Learning, and Specialized Student Supports at Chelsea Public Schools. They explore Chelsea's comprehensive approach to student wellbeing, including their successful restorative practices and district-wide SEL leadership model. Brenda s…

1
Brandi Kelly on Leading School Districts with H.O.P.E 54:07

7M ago54:07

54:07

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Dr. Brandi Kelly, Superintendent of Mount Olive School District and author of the upcoming book "Lead with Hope." They explore how personal tragedy inspired her journey into education and shaped her transformative leadership framework centered on H.O.P.E (Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Passi…

1
PJ Caposey on Building Durable Skills for Student Success 1:03:09

8M ago1:03:09

1:03:09

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with PJ Caposey, Superintendent of Oregon Community Unit School District 220 and Meridian CUSD 223. They discuss the critical importance of durable skills in K-12 education, how to effectively measure student growth, and preparing students for future success beyond traditional academics. PJ sh…

1
Cynthia Ritchie on Flexible Learning Models and Student-Centered Change 51:56

9M ago51:56

51:56

In the tenth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Cynthia Ritchie, Superintendent of New London Schools in Connecticut. They discuss innovative instruction, flexible learning models, and the shift away from the traditional school-year calendar. Finally, Cynthia shares her insights on driving innovation in school districts while keep…

1
The Road to Future-Ready with Michael Crawford 57:16

9M ago57:16

57:16

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Michael Crawford, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at America Succeeds. Together, they explore the transformative impact of prioritizing durable skills in teaching and learning. Drawing from his own experience, Michael shares valuable advice for leaders and educators striving to ad…

1
Alissa Muller and the Power of Mastery-Based Learning 55:53

10M ago55:53

55:53

In the eighth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Alissa Muller, Director of Policy at the Washington State Board of Education, to discuss mastery-based learning (MBL). Together, they explore the concepts of culturally responsive-sustaining MBL and examine the challenges and benefits of these teaching models. Alissa also shares val…

1
Spotlight on the Learner with Alin Bennett and Bobbi Macdonald 59:39

10M ago59:39

59:39

In this episode of Growth over Grades, Alin Bennett and Bobbi Macdonald from Education Reimagined join Jordan to share their expertise in learner-centred education. They delve into the foundations of this approach, discussing what it means to place learners at the center, the evolving role of teachers, and the key changes needed in assessment pract…

1
The Portrait of a Learner in Action: A Discussion with Claire Romzek 47:31

10M ago47:31

47:31

In this episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan speaks with educator and Magnet Coordinator Claire Romzek about how the Portrait of a Learner cultivates future readiness in her students. Claire emphasizes that, alongside the Portrait of a Learner (POL), ungrading, project-based learning (PBL), and competency-based learning (CBL) collaboratively equip…

1
Preparing Future-Ready Students with Dana Addis 43:20

11M ago43:20

43:20

In the fifth episode of Growth Over Grades, Jordan sits down with Dana Addis, an experienced educational leader dedicated to equipping students for the future through the Portrait of a Graduate (PoG). In this engaging conversation, they delve into the PoG, with Dana sharing valuable insights and practical strategies for leaders eager to transition …

1
Educational Innovation and Mastery-Based Learning with Julia Bamba 53:08

11M ago53:08

53:08

In this episode of the Growth Over Grades podcast, Jordan Lewis chats with Julia Bamba, a principal on special assignment, driving secondary innovation in Washington. They dive into the benefits of mastery-based learning, discussing how to engage families, leverage technology, and celebrate student success. Julia also shares practical tips for educ…

1
Innovative Strategies for Shaping Future-Ready Students with Michael Hale 56:57

12M ago56:57

56:57

In this episode of the "Growth Over Grades" podcast, host Jordan Lewis sits down with Michael Hale, Co-Founder of Expeditionary Schools, to discuss the transformative power of Expeditionary Learning. Michael discusses how building strong community connections and aligning Standards-Based Grading with the Portrait of a Graduate can foster deeper stu…

1
Advancing Education Through Innovation: The Shift to Deeper Learning with Rob Collins 57:56

1y ago57:56

57:56

The Kentucky Division of Innovative Learning has been pivotal in advancing practices that promote deeper learning in classrooms. In the second episode of Season 3 of the "Growth Over Grades" podcast, host Jordan Lewis speaks with Rob Collins, Innovative Programs Consultant. They discuss the essential role of fostering a reciprocal relationship betw…

1
Embracing Competency-Based Education with Liz Perry & Bryanna Hanson 1:04:20

1y ago1:04:20

1:04:20

The traditional education model has long been critiqued for its focus on grades over genuine learning. In the first episode of Season 3 of the "Growth Over Grades" podcast, Jordan Lewis delves into this issue with Bryanna Hanson, Director of Learning Design, and Liz Perry, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Learner-Centered Collaborative. Th…

1
Growth Over Grades: Season 3 Trailer 1:28

1y ago1:28

1:28

The Growth Over Grades podcast is back for season 3! We're connecting you with thought leaders, pioneers, and change agents who are leading the charge to support schools and districts in making the shift toward competency-based education and promoting growth over grades. Follow our podcast to stay updated on the latest episodes and be part of this …

1
Growth Over Grades: LIVE from IDEAcon Episode 4 23:47

1+ y ago23:47

23:47

In our very last episode of LIVE from IDEAcon, we feature three amazing women educators and leaders: Kit Jenkins, Sarah Said, and Mandy Froehlich. Kit Jenkins is a retired teacher and professor emeritus who still teaches one class a semester at Webster University. Her story of attending IDEAcon might just blow you away. She came to find out more ab…

1
Growth Over Grades: LIVE From IDEAcon Episode 3 24:33

1+ y ago24:33

24:33

Listen to our third LIVE episode from IDEAcon in Schaumburg, IL. This exciting episode features Victoria Thompson, Becky Keene, and Andre Daughty. Victoria Thompson a.k.a. "Victoria the Tech" is an educator, author, speaker and Education Strategist at CDW. She shares about her sessions, which highlight cross-curricular teachers working together, in…

1
Growth Over Grades: LIVE from IDEAcon Episode 2 20:37

1+ y ago20:37

20:37

Listen to our second LIVE IDEAcon featuring IL educator, Carrie Baughcum, and Featured Speaker, Jed Dearybury, who returns to the Growth Over Grades Podcast. Carrie Baughcum has been an educator for 26 years and specializes in teaching students with IEPs. Her new session was about helping create a strong foundation for educators to help them throug…

1
Growth Over Grades: LIVE From IDEAcon Episode 1 22:38

1+ y ago22:38

22:38

Listen to our first LIVE From IDEAcon Episode featuring Illinois Educators Don Sturm, Tyler Hunt, and Dr. Rachael Mahmood. This LIVE episode is uncut and super fun! Don Sturm has been an educator for three decades and is the President-Elect of IDEA. We talk about the importance of adapting to change in education and edtech and the importance of hel…

1
S2 Episode 12 | Growth Over Grades: Adam Watson "The Impact of Game-Based Learning" 40:09

1+ y ago40:09

40:09

In this episode, we speak with Adam Watson, Deeper Learning Design Specialist of Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative. Adam is an award-winning educator who was named KySTE Outstanding Leader of the Year in 2018-19. Before his current role he served as an English teacher and Shelby County’s first Technology Integration Coach. Adam has MANY accomplis…

1
S2 Episode 11 | Growth Over Grades: Seth Fleischauer & Allyson Mitchell "Leveraging Live Video in Distance Learning & Face-To-Face Classrooms" 53:36

1+ y ago53:36

53:36

In this episode, we speak with Seth Fleischauer and Allyson Mitchell. Seth is the president of Banyan Global Learning, which he founded in 2008 after teaching elementary school via NYC Teaching Fellows. Banyan provides unique live virtual teacher training in AI Literacy and mindful tech adoption. With Banyan he first pioneered a unique daily distan…

1
S2 Episode 10 | Growth Over Grades: David Cook "A New Vision: Portrait of a Learner" 45:17

1+ y ago45:17

45:17

In episode 10, we speak with David Cook, Kentucky Department of Education Director of Innovative Learning. David has helped bring to life a new vision from United We Learn, that involves community stakeholders and an adoption of a Portrait of a Learner. David Cook and his team have an important role with the Kentucky Department of Education. From t…

1
S2 Episode 9 | Growth Over Grades: Thomas D'Amico "Leadership in Deeper Learning" 41:17

1+ y ago41:17

41:17

In episode 9 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Thomas D'Amico, educator, leader, and Director of Education at Ottawa Catholic School Board.Tom has helped bring a “Deeper Learning” movement into his district. We are going to dive into what that means, what it looks like, and its impact on learning and teaching. Tom is a s…

1
S2 Episode 8 | Growth Over Grades: Coach William Jeffery "Leadership That Inspires Growth" 39:57

1+ y ago39:57

39:57

In episode 8 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Coach William Jeffery, Director of Assistant Principals Leadership Academy in Houston ISD, author, podcaster, and speaker. Coach has visited our SpacesEDU booths at ISTE interviewing us for his own podcast, the award-winning FlipboardEDU Podcast. He has been a regular of our…

1
S2 Episode 7 | Growth Over Grades: Starr Sackstein "Student-Led Assessment Through Portfolios & Conferences" 52:25

1+ y ago52:25

52:25

In episode 7 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Starr Sackstein, Chief Operating Officer at Mastery Portfolio, LLC, Author, Speaker, Educator, and Assessment Reformer. Starr has written numerous books and articles about ways to help students and teachers learn or teach in a more natural way that respects the agency of bot…

1
S2 Episode 6 | Growth Over Grades: Dr. James Neihof "Competency-Based Education & Student Agency" 37:12

2y ago37:12

37:12

In episode 6 of the Growth Over Grades podcast by SpacesEDU, we spoke with Dr. James Neihof, Co-Director of Deeper Learning for the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative (GRREC), Education Consultant, and former Superintendent. Dr. Neihof is on a mission to encourage public school educators and provide leadership coaching. In this episode, D…

1
S2 Episode 5: Stefanie Crawford "The Big IDEAs in EdTech" 39:18

2y ago39:18

39:18

In Episode 5 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Stefanie Crawford, who has served as classroom teacher, instructional coach, and has recently become the Executive Director for IDEA the IL ISTE affiliate, who also hosts an annual educator conference right outside of Chicago called IDEAcon.As part of her role, Stefanie s…

1
[Special Episode] Empowering Tomorrow's Workforce: Strategies for K-12 School Districts to Enhance Student Career Readiness 53:09

2y ago53:09

53:09

In a rapidly evolving job landscape, equipping K-12 students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their future careers has never been more crucial. Join Sierra Holtzheuser, VP of SpacesEDU, and three K-12 career readiness experts as they share strategies and best practices that district and school administrators can implement to ensure stude…

1
S2 Episode 4: Tara Desiderio "Portrait of an Elementary Learner" 32:21

2y ago32:21

32:21

In Episode 4 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Tara Desiderio, who has served her elementary school community as Principal for the past 14 years. Before this, she was also a kindergarten teacher and leader. Tara is dedicated to helping educators & students embrace a love of learning & happiness. She recently received …

1
S2 Episode 3: Yaritza Villalba "Leadership: Bringing Out the Best In Your Students" 30:12

2y ago30:12

30:12

In Episode 3 of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we hosted a conversation with Yaritza Villalba, who has served as a teacher and principal in public education. She is also a Keynote Speaker, author, and DEI Consultant. Yaritza Villalba has a passion for connecting globally with students and educators. She is known internationally and uses her creati…

1
S2 Episode 2: Dr. Henry Turner “DEI: Change The Narrative” 32:56

2y ago32:56

32:56

In Episode 2 of the Growth Over Grades podcast we hosted a conversation with Dr. Henry Turner, an exceptional leader and co-author of "Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School" with Kathy Lopes. Dr. Turner's passion for community, inclusion, and amplifying young voices defined his 12 years as a high school principal,…

1
S2 Episode 1: Danelle Alamaraz “Leading From the Middle” 31:20

2y ago31:20

31:20

Join us for the Season 2 premiere of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, with an inspiring conversation with Danelle Almaraz, an educational trailblazer with decades of experience. Almaraz introduces the revolutionary concept of "Leading From the Middle," challenging traditional top-down education systems by fostering a culture of collaboration and sha…

1
Ep. 17 | ISTELive23 Review Panel 55:27

2y ago55:27

55:27

Welcome to "Growth Over Grades," where we present an extraordinary panel of guests, all seasoned attendees of the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) conference. Host Melody McAllister, joins other esteemed educators and innovators who are tirelessly changing education on a larger scale. These personal friends of the show share…

1
Ep. 16 | Michele Jones “Finding Focus With Formative Assessment" 30:01

2y ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of the Growth Over Grades Podcast, we explore the transformative power of formative assessment with Michele Jones, the Executive Director for the Alberta Assessment Consortium. Michele's insights emphasize the importance of confident assessment practices for teachers without overwhelming workloads. Discover various formative assessm…

1
Ep. 15 | Dr. Randall Sampson “The Champion Culture” 32:25

2y ago32:25

32:25

Join us on the "Growth Over Grades" podcast as we sit down with Dr. Sampson, a dedicated education leader and author of "Welcome To The Grind: How Educators Achieve Exponential Results." Based in Columbus, OH, Dr. Sampson has a wealth of experience as an educator and administrator at all levels. Through his consulting business, Liberty Leadership D…

1
Ep. 14 | Adam Mokelke “Fostering a Culture of Growth” 36:40

2+ y ago36:40

36:40

This Growth Over Grades Podcast Guest is my friend and award-winning Principal Adam Mokelke. I’ve been wanting to have Adam as a guest for this past year. But that was when he was just part of my PLN. Now I have seen him in the role of principal to my two middle school children at Anchorage STrEaM Academy and he is now my administrator. Adam Mokelk…

1
Ep. 13 | Katie McNamara & Dr. Alec Couros "Empowering Educators: Using Chat GPT" 31:20

2+ y ago31:20

31:20

In this episode, we delve into the topic of ChatGPT and its impact on education. Our guests, Katie McNamara and Dr. Alec Couros, share their insights on using this AI platform to help educators reclaim time, plan instruction, and even assess student learning. While some educators may be hesitant to use ChatGPT, our guests highlight its potential be…

1
Ep. 12 | Jamilla Fort, Nicole Biscotti, and Barbara Bray: Women of Purpose in Education 56:12

2+ y ago56:12

56:12

Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our SpacesEDU Educator Community. Join Melody McAllister as she sits down with Jamilla Fort, Nicole Biscotti, and Barbara Bray to discuss all things education through each of their unique perspectives. Although each educator is in a differen…

1
Ep. 11 | Jed Dearybury: "The Importance of Play in the Classroom" 30:31

2+ y ago30:31

30:31

Welcome to the Growth Over Grades Podcast where we talk about education ideas and topics that matter most to our SpacesEDU Educator Community. Jed is an educator who has taught early child elementary and post-secondary education in training future educators. He models culturally responsive teaching while infusing his lessons with play and has co-au…

1
[VIDEO] Ep. 10 | Tom Schimmer “Assessment: What’s Hope Got To Do With it?” 33:15

2+ y ago33:15

33:15

In this episode, we meet and discuss assessment with Tom Schimmer. Tom Schimmer is a recognized voice when it comes to learning about assessment and grading. He’s an award-winning author and has at least 8 published books and I know more are coming. He’s been an educator for over 30 years. Schimmer advocates for change in both assessment and gradin…

1
Ep. 10 | Tom Schimmer “Assessment: What’s Hope Got To Do With it?” 33:15

2+ y ago33:15

33:15

In this episode, we meet and discuss assessment with Tom Schimmer. Tom Schimmer is a recognized voice when it comes to learning about assessment and grading. He’s an award-winning author and has at least 8 published books and I know more are coming. He’s been an educator for over 30 years. Schimmer advocates for change in both assessment and gradin…

SpacesEDU By MyBlueprint Podcasts