Discover the revolution in school culture as we engage with Gerry Correa, Principal of Carr Intermediate School, who shares his journey towards creating an environment where every student's efforts and personal development are celebrated. In our conversation, we unveil the subtle yet impactful changes in aesthetics and the powerful practice of daily affirmations that have transformed Carr into a community where open communication and support thrive. Learn how embracing innovation and a forward-thinking philosophy are pivotal for educators to stay on the cutting edge, and why the traditional co ..read more

Once a skeptic, now a believer, Gerry Correa joins us to unveil the remarkable impact AI has had on his life and career in education. His story, from navigating language barriers and stereotypes to becoming the principal of Carr Intermediate School, strikes at the heart of perseverance. Together, we unearth the power of technology, as Gerry recounts how ChatGPT transformed his approach to writing accreditation reports—proving that AI can indeed be a formidable ally in the realm of education. Our conversation takes an emotional turn as Gerry shares the story of the teacher who saw a spark in a ..read more

Unlock the secrets to building a thriving educational community with Lisa Solomon and Elisa Briseño-Sandoval, the trailblazing leaders of the FACE team at Santa Ana Unified School District. Our conversation is a celebration of engagement, uncovering the innovative strategies that are connecting schools with families and community partners alike. Discover how the FACE team is championing parental voices, ensuring their inclusion in the decision-making fabric of their children's education, and seamlessly weaving the Eight Dimensions of Wellness into the heart of their programs. Step into our co ..read more

Embark on an inspiring exploration with Jerry Almendarez, the trailblazing superintendent of SAUSD, as he shares the riveting tale of his voyage through the realms of educational leadership and technological innovation. Engage with his vision of a future where AI and blockchain are not just buzzwords but critical tools in levelling the academic playing field. Jerry opens up about his evolution as a leader, his efforts in amplifying the voices of students, teachers, and the community, and the delicate art of balancing tech-savvy solutions with the irreplaceable value of human connections. Feel ..read more

Ever wondered how stories of resilience and struggle can inspire young minds? Here's a golden chance to peek into the diary of Ernesto Cisneros, an acclaimed author and educator, as he reveals how his personal journey has shaped his writing. He shares his trials in getting published, the significance of diverse representation in literature, and how his narratives have made a profound impact on students, propelling them to dream big and find their own voice. Engage with Ernesto as he navigates through a myriad of themes ranging from overcoming self-doubt to addressing complex topics in childre ..read more

Ever wondered how stories of resilience and struggle can inspire young minds? Here's a golden chance to peek into the diary of Ernesto Cisneros, an acclaimed author and educator, as he reveals how his personal journey has shaped his writing. He shares his trials in getting published, the significance of diverse representation in literature, and how his narratives have made a profound impact on students, propelling them to dream big and find their own voice. Engage with Ernesto as he navigates through a myriad of themes ranging from overcoming self-doubt to addressing complex topics in childre ..read more

Imagine the challenge of transferring to a new school district for high school, constantly trying and struggling to fit in. Now, imagine transforming that mindset, rising above adversity, and embarking on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. This is the story of our guest, Eric Salcedo, a proud alumnus of Santa Ana Unified School District. Eric's tale is a testament to resilience and determination, shaped by the indelible influence of his custodian father, his struggles in school, and the profound impact of a young substitute teacher's message that forever altered his attitude towa ..read more

Imagine being the youngest and the first LGBTQ+ member to serve on the Board of Education? That's right, we're sitting down with Hector Bustos, the remarkable clerk of SAUSD's Board of Education. This episode takes you along a heartfelt journey, from Hector's days at Segerstrom High School to now leading the Board of Education, showcasing his unyielding devotion to public education, diversity, and inclusion. It's a powerful narrative of resilience and determination that breaks barriers and fosters a generation of empathetic leaders. Curious about Hector's perspective on ethnic studies in our ..read more

What if you could transform an entire school community with empathy, commitment, and innovative thinking? Our spirited guest, Principal Nata Shin, has done just that, and she's here to share her inspiring story. As a woman with a deep-rooted passion for mathematics and a clear understanding of her cultural background, Nata's journey in education has not been ordinary. She guides us through her experiences, from her early days as a student teacher to her current role as the principal of Century High School, illuminating the challenges she overcame and the successes she achieved. Century High S ..read more

What if the challenging behaviors of your early learners are actually their way of communicating their needs and emotions? This episode takes you on a journey into the fascinating world of early learning with Diana Torres, Damaris Sandoval, and Andrew Montoya. We explore the importance of empathetic connections and unique insights into how we can understand these silent messages behind every action. Diana gives us an insight into the significance of understanding the 'why' behind every behavior, while Damaris elaborates on the impactful role of classroom environments and their contribution to ..read more