In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug sits down with Dr. Matthew Wienclawski, Superintendent of Pathways in Education in Chicago. Matthew shares insights into the unique model of alternative education that Pathways offers, supporting students aged 16 to 22 who are overage and under-credited, and often juggle life responsibilities, such as work or caregiving, alongside their education.Discover how Pathways provides flexible programming,students attend just four hours per day, with options for one-on-one, small group, or online learning. Matthew discusses the challenges and benefits of partnering with Chicago Public Schools under a contract model, maintaining autonomy while meeting district metrics, and running four campuses spread across the city (all coincidentally on the same avenue!).Listen as Matthew reveals the entrepreneurial spirit behind Pathways, from individualized student success plans and hands-on mentorship to building an active alumni network and hiring graduates. He also opens up about his leadership journey, the impact of mentorship, and his focus on leading with humanity and grace, encouraging staff to learn from mistakes and fostering a responsive, supportive school culture.Tune in for practical lessons in alternative education, flexible pathways to graduation, and creating a caring environment that values both students and staff.Key Moments00:00 Flexible programming limits student tenure to prevent disservice; offers varied teaching modalities: 1-on-1 instruction and small group instruction.05:48 Model for integrating young adult components in high schools, emphasizing hands-on training and trades over traditional college paths.09:23 Early in my career, as a principal in Oakland, my mentor emphasized purpose using the proverb: "One generation plants the trees, another gets the shade." This taught me that our actions now may not show immediate results, but will eventually flourish, much like nurturing students despite their hardships.12:24 Embrace imperfection and encourage mistakes for learning without fear of repercussions.13:54 Guiding students to complete plans and hearing their success stories later is fulfilling and highlights the lasting impact of Pathways.Why You’ll Love This Episode:Be inspired by Dr. Matthew Wienclawski's authentic leadership journey rooted in community, driven by equity, and focused on transforming educational outcomes through collaboration and clarity.Discover how he is working to increase the retention of Black male educators, address the “invisible tax” many educators face, and build leadership pipelines grounded in mentorship, representation, and respect.Gain insight into school turnaround strategy, leadership density, and how he leads with clarity, compassion, and cultural relevance, alongside a powerful vision for future superintendency rooted in impact, not ego.Connect with Dr. Matthew WienclawskiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wienclawski-5869489 Website: https://pathwaysineducation.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more conversations on building powerful school cultures one little win at a time.

In this episode, host Doug sits down with Tim Wolff, Director of Human Resources for Scranton Public Schools in Pennsylvania. Tim gives us a behind-the-scenes look at life in Scranton, the real electric city made famous by "The Office" and shares how the community has embraced its pop culture roots.Tim also opens up about his journey from health and physical education teacher to HR director, and how strong mentorship and a passion for helping others have shaped his career. He dives into the district’s recent challenges and successes, including restoring programs, improving teacher retention, and fostering positive workplace culture under new leadership. Along the way, Tim offers honest insights into the joys and headaches of HR, the importance of professional networks, and why Scranton’s future is looking brighter than ever.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and the power of embracing both change and community.Key Moments04:13 "Feedback and Recognition Initiatives"09:25 Building Capacity and Knowledge Sharing12:04 District Funding Challenges and Opportunities13:54 Scranton's Growing Educational CapacityWhy You’ll Love This Episode:Be inspired by Tim Wolff’s authentic leadership journey rooted in community, driven by equity, and focused on transforming educational outcomes through collaboration and clarity.Discover how he supports district leaders in aligning vision with execution, ensuring instructional strategies, community engagement, and resource planning all work together for long-term student success.Learn how Tim champions inclusive decision-making and adaptive leadership, balancing urgency with sustainability, and helping systems stay student-centered even in times of rapid change.Gain insight into the power of partnerships, professional learning networks, and shared leadership, alongside a hopeful vision of schools as hubs of innovation, inclusion, and impact.Connect with Tim Wolff LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-wolff-3379b91b/ Website: https://www.scrsd.org/ssd/OurSchools/Whs/Wesths Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode, host Doug Roberts sits down with Dr. Melissa Dandy Walker, a digital learning specialist with Atlanta Public Schools, to explore the power of community, mentorship, and innovation in education. Melissa shares insights into her unique role supporting instructional technology bridging math education with digital tools and her creative approach to leadership. From launching initiatives like the district-wide Technology Innovation Competition to expanding opportunities for students and families through programs like Grow with Google, Melissa demonstrates what it means to be an “educreative” leader.She reflects on her journey from classroom math teacher to district coach, highlighting the role of mentorship in her career, and pays tribute to the mentors who shaped her outlook, especially her lasting relationship with Pamela Benford. The conversation dives deep into building strengths-based communities, navigating the changing landscape of public education, and ensuring digital equity for all students. Plus, Melissa shares practical stories about how Atlanta schools use tools like Prodigy and Minecraft to make math engaging and accessible for diverse learners.Key Moments04:17 Early-Stage Teacher Mentorship Success08:25 Superintendents Leaving Due to Politics10:52 "Scaling Mentorship in Schools"14:35 Prodigy Game Concerns Parent18:13 "Discovering Hidden Potential in Others"Why You’ll Love This Episode:Discover how she helped launch a districtwide Technology Innovation Competition and brought Grow with Google to not only students but also teachers, parents, and alumni across Atlanta Public Schools.Learn how Melissa champions Gallup Strengths coaching to build capacity, culture, and community helping teachers discover talents they didn’t even know they had.Be inspired by Melissa Dandy Walker’s journey from math teacher to digital learning specialist and how she brings creative spark and heartfelt mentorship to everything she touches.Gain insight into how game-based platforms like Prodigy are shifting math mindsets so much so that parents think their kids are just having fun (they are… and they’re also learning deeply).Connect with Dr. Melissa Dandy WalkerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-dandy-walker/ Website: https://www.atlantapublicschools.us/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug Roberts sits down with Dr. Devon Horton, Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools in Georgia, for a powerful conversation about transforming district culture, empowering educators, and creating systems that truly support students.Dr. Horton unpacks “H-PRIDE,” his district-wide framework centered on Humanization, Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dignity, and Empathy. More than just a slogan, H-PRIDE is DeKalb’s cultural blueprint, redefining how staff, students, and the community engage with one another. Horton discusses how this values-based model began as a leadership tool and evolved into a systemic movement one that’s reshaping how people show up across a district of 92,000+ students.He also shares how restorative practices, de-escalation training, and community-embedded support staff (called “FACE Advocates”) have helped DeKalb reduce suspensions by thousands, while increasing connection, accountability, and trust. From internal promotions to personal mentorship of future superintendents, Horton is building a pipeline of empowered educators and modeling what it means to lead with both strategy and soul.Key Moments04:43 "Transferring Skills for Systemic Change"09:06 Weekend Mentorship for Aspiring Leaders10:03 Networking's Role in Career Fluidity14:02 "Restorative Training for School Staff"16:20 "Transformative Support for Students"Why You’ll Love This Episode:Dr. Devon Horton isn’t just shifting policy, he’s rebuilding trust and human connection in a system long overdue for change. His focus on culture as the foundation of academic success is both timely and timeless. Whether you’re a district leader, school board member, or aspiring superintendent, this episode offers practical strategies, deep insights, and a hopeful reminder: when systems prioritize people, students thrive.Connect with Dr. Devon HortonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-devon-horton-53690661Website: https://www.dekalbschoolsga.orgFollow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug Roberts sits down with longtime II superintendent member and author Dr. PJ Caposey, superintendent of both Meridian and Oregon school districts in Illinois. This candid conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really means to lead boldly, mentor intentionally, and manage the complexities of public education without losing yourself in the process.Caposey shares what it’s been like managing two very different districts at once, navigating rural school leadership, and scaling back a thriving speaking career to focus on what matters most. He discusses the importance of time management, the role of ego in leadership, and how self-awareness has shaped his evolution as a superintendent and mentor.The conversation turns personal as Caposey reflects on key mentors, lessons from leading during crisis, and the flat nature of school district hierarchies that often limit upward mobility. His take? Great leaders “see more and before,” and their job is to speak potential into existence for students, teachers, and peers alike.Key Moments05:57 Forge Relationships Through Sincere Questions09:25 "Visionary Leadership and Mentorship"11:17 Rural Education Challenges and Opportunities15:10 Illinois' Future Amid Uncertainty16:54 Leadership Insights and Education CrisisWhy You’ll Love This Episode:Dr. PJ Caposey doesn’t sugarcoat the work but he brings heart, humor, and hard-won wisdom to every challenge. Whether you’re leading a district, mentoring rising leaders, or trying to balance ambition with sustainability, PJ’s story will remind you that leadership is both art and endurance and that the best leaders lift others as they go.Connect with Dr. PJ CaposeyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mcusdsupeFollow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode, host Doug sits down with Dr. Frankie Pollock Jr., soon to earn his doctorate and currently serving as Senior Executive Director at Houston ISD in Texas. Together, they explore Dr. Frankie's groundbreaking research on the retention of Black male educators in urban school districts, the critical role of representation for all student groups, and what it takes to recruit and retain diverse talent in the classroom and beyond.Dr. Frankie Pollock Jr. shares powerful stories from his career, including a bold experiment where he spent a day as a student in his own high school to better understand and empathize with the challenges kids face daily. He also lifts the curtain on the complex realities of educational leadership, from moving across cities for new roles to guiding schools through major turnarounds. Doug and Frankie discuss mentorship, balancing politics, and why embracing side hustles can help keep talented leaders in the field.Key Moments06:31 "Shaping Perspective on Student Experience"08:12 School Adjustment Challenges11:28 Transformational Leadership in Education14:58 Leadership Growth and Opportunities18:06 Building Leaders Through Mentorship19:43 Mentor's Impact on Student GrowthWhy You’ll Love This Episode:In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Frankie Pollock Jr. shares his groundbreaking research on retaining Black male educators, the power of representation, and what it really takes to lead school turnarounds. From spending a day as a student in his own high school to mentoring future leaders, Frankie brings empathy, insight, and practical wisdom to the challenges of urban education. A must-listen for anyone passionate about equity, leadership, and impact.Connect with Dr. Frankie Pollock Jr.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankiehpollockjr/ Website: https://www.scrsd.org/ssd/OurSchools/Whs/Wesths Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode, host Doug sits down with Dr. Jermaine Dawson, Deputy Superintendent for Academic Services at the School District of Philadelphia. Together, they dive into the remarkable progress happening in Philly’s public schools under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Tony B. Watlington, Sr. and the ambitious “Accelerate Philly” plan. Dr. Dawson shares firsthand insights on rising enrollment numbers, improved graduation rates, and the innovative strategies being used to support all learners including initiatives around AI integration, pipelines for future educators, and increased access to advanced courses for every student. Plus, Dr. Dawson reflects on his own inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Atlanta to educational leadership, and the powerful impact mentors have had along the way. Whether you’re an education leader, teacher, or advocate, this episode is filled with wisdom, hope, and actionable ideas for uplifting students and communities.Key Moments00:00 Deputy Superintendent Responsibilities Overview05:29 Empowering Teachers: Inclusion and Input09:02 Data-Driven Educational Success11:53 "Accelerate Philly: Collaborative Vision"15:16 Temple Program and School Partnerships18:08 "Prioritize Grade-Level Learning"21:20 Breakfast Sacrifice and Teacher Support25:26 "Unexpected Journey: A Life Lesson"Why You’ll Love This Episode:Be inspired by Dr. Jermaine Dawson’s remarkable journey from experiencing homelessness as a child in Atlanta to leading academic services for 350+ schools in the School District of Philadelphia.Discover how his deeply personal mission to serve “every child, every day” is driving bold academic gains, from increased enrollment to historic proficiency rates in literacy and math.Learn how his team is blending AI with humanity, building smart, supportive systems that protect teacher time without ever replacing the power of real relationships.Explore how “Accelerate Philly” is transforming opportunity through expanded AP access, dual enrollment, and “best by 11th” Algebra goals making sure students graduate with options, not obstacles.Connect with Dr. Jermaine DawsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jermainedawsonedd/ Website: https://www.philasd.org/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.

In this episode of Stories from the Field, host Doug Roberts is joined by Iranetta Wright, Superintendent Emeritus of Cincinnati Public Schools and founder of The Wright Way Leadership Group. This no-fluff, all-substance conversation covers what it takes to drive student outcomes and sustain yourself as a leader in today’s educational landscape.Wright shares how her tenure in Cincinnati defied the norms: leading the district to its best academic outcomes in over 15 years and outperforming peer districts and the state in both reading and math. She breaks down her action-based leadership model, grounded in strategic planning, coaching, and authentic assessment, and now used in school systems across the country.Wright also speaks candidly about post-superintendency life: launching leadership cohorts, mentoring educators from multiple states, and staying deeply connected to classrooms. She reflects on the joy of student interaction, the power of mentorship, and the non-negotiable need for self-care. Her message is clear: you can’t pour from an empty pitcher, and outcomes follow when leaders lead with intention, balance, and heart.Key Moments05:56 From Good to Better Outcomes10:20 "Prioritizing Self-Care for Productivity"11:38 Lead by Example, Self-Care First16:53 Support Systems Through Shared Experiences17:58 Leading with Informed DecisionsWhy You’ll Love This Episode:Iranetta Wright doesn’t just talk about leadership—she lives it. From turning around student outcomes to building national leadership networks, her work is rooted in clarity, compassion, and real results. If you're navigating high-stakes roles in education, this episode will leave you energized to lead with purpose, invest in people, and protect your own well-being along the way.Connect with Iranetta WrightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iranetta-rayborn-wright-00053937Website: https://www.cps-k12.org/Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode?Subscribe to Stories from the Field and leave us a review!Share this episode with education leaders, mentors, and anyone who believes in outcomes with heart.

In Season 5, Episode 9, of “Stories from the Field: The Superintendent Podcast,” Doug Roberts, the CEO & Founder of Institute for Education Innovation visits Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, to discuss tough decisions and how community connections enhance the coming-together of Denver for addressing the Whole Child and Social Emotional Learning.

In Season 5, Episode 8, of “Stories from the Field: The Superintendent Podcast,” Doug Roberts, the CEO & Founder of Institute for Education Innovation visits Dr. Alex Marrero, Superintendent of Denver Public Schools, to have tough conversations about being a strong district leader looking out for his students and the Denver community, while maintaining equity and considering safety.