Shows
Coach 360346. Jonathan Lamb: Leading with Purpose at Pflugerville ISDWhat does it take to lead through transition without losing the heart of your mission? In this episode of Coach 360: Beyond The Game, we welcome back Coach Jonathan Lamb—now Athletic Director at Pflugerville ISD—for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, character development, and embracing growth through change. Having spent nearly two decades in Leander ISD, Coach Lamb shares his journey from a place of comfort to one of challenge and new opportunity. Whether you're a coach considering a professional transition or an athletic leader looking to grow your impact, this episode is full of timely insights. Tune...2025-07-0729 min
On the Street: A #1LISD JourneyJuneteenth & Shaping a Path for Educational AccessAs part of a special panel series highlighting public education in Texas, Leander ISD was invited to share how it is honoring Juneteenth through its ongoing commitment to educational access for each and every student.In this episode, Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., and Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street are joined by LISD parent Serenity Coats and her daughter Jaya, a proud Leander High School graduate. Together, they reflect on the historic and personal significance of Juneteenth, and how meaningful relationships, representation, and opportunity continue to shape the student experience in Leander ISD.2025-06-1831 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyLGBTQ+ Month With Alexandra PeoplesDeWayne sits down with Alexandra Peoples to discuss her backstory and why this month means so much to so many.Introductions (0:00-1:17)Backstories (1:17-8:08)Why LISD? (8:08-11:01)Favorite Place You Have Visited (11:01-17:14)What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self (17:14-29:32)Open Discussion (29:32-30:54)Outro (30:54-31:18)2025-06-1131 min
TLA's Libraries Transform Texas PodcastVoices for All: Enhancing Library Services for Bilingual CommunitiesIn this episode, guest host Carolyn Slavin, bilingual librarian at Reed Elementary in Leander ISD, talks with Carmen Lazo, Children’s Community Programs Administrator at the Pflugerville Public Library, about the vital role libraries play in supporting bilingual communities. Drawing from their experiences in both school and public library settings, Carolyn and Carmen discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of serving Spanish-speaking patrons. They share creative program ideas, trusted resources, and some of their favorite bilingual books, offering practical inspiration for librarians looking to create more inclusive, accessible spaces for all readers.Libraries Transform Te...2025-05-2029 min
Collaborative PartnersAll About EvaluationsLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson, is joined by Coordinator of Evaluation and Related Services, Mary Beth Pinell, for an informative conversation about the special education evaluation process, related services, and how families can navigate important conversations and collaborate with their child’s support team.Ashley starts by asking Mary Beth to share a little about herself and her roles in the district (00:46). Later, Ashley and Mary Beth have a conversation centered around:Special Education Evaluation Process (1:21)Private Evaluation Considerations (6:18)Parent Questions (8:29)Related Services (8:45)Explaining a Full Individual Evaluation (FIE) to Your Child (9:5...2025-05-1916 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyOn The Street: Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islanders Month with Austin PrumOn The Street: Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islanders Month with Austin PrumKnowles Elementary’s Physical Education teacher, Austin Prum sat down with Chief of the Office of Educational Access, DeWayne Street, to chat about Asian American Pacific Islanders Month. He uses his culture and life experiences to teach his students about diversity and acceptance. In his 11 years of education, Austin has seen many students come and go and has left a lasting impact on all of them. Enjoy this episode as we wrap up the school year.DeWayne sits down with Austin to learn mo...2025-05-1427 minCollaborative PartnersLittle Learners, Big ImpactLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson, is joined by Special Education Early Childhood Coordinator Erica Metcalf for an engaging conversation about early childhood education services and how families can create meaningful learning experiences at home.Ashley starts by asking Erica to share a little about herself and her roles in the district (00:46). Later, Ashley and Erica have a conversation centered around:Early Childhood Services (2:37)Parents as Teachers (3:50)Parent Questions (5:25)Attending School for the First Time (14:46)Fostering Learning at Home (16:48)Ways for Families to Collaborate (17:03)ResourcesCollaborative Pa...2025-05-0518 minCollaborative PartnersExploring the JourneyLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by Area Superintendent, Paul Johnson for an insightful conversation on fostering campus collaboration and building strong support networks to help families plan for the future.Ashley starts by asking Paul to share a little about himself and his roles in the district (00:52). Later, Ashley and Paul have a conversation centered around:Campus Collaboration (3:03)Parent Questions (10:53)Medicaid Waiver Lists (13:25)Community Connections (14:46)Life After Exiting Service (16:48)Ways for Families to Collaborate (24:10)ResourcesCollaborative Partners Question FormSpecial Programs HandbookDistrict LeadershipDestination LifeMedicaid Waiver ListsGuardianship and Guardianship...2025-04-2126 minCollaborative PartnersWhat's a Parent Liaison?Leander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by Assistive Technology Specialist, Cici Fritts to talk about the supports available for families.Cici starts by asking Ashley to share a little about herself and her role in the district (00:44). Later, Cici and Ashley have a conversation centered around:What Questions are Parents Asking? (4:26)Advice for Parents Feeling Overwhelmed (7:25)Parent Questions (9:40)Ways for Families to Collaborate (19:27)ResourcesCollaborative Partners Question FormSpecial Programs HandbookFamily Workshop ConferenceDestination...LifeSpecial Programs Family Advisory Council (SPPAC)2025-04-0920 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyWomen’s History Month with Ashley Anderson, Donna Simons, Dr. Erika CruzSeason 2 Episode 7 – Women’s History Month with Ashley Anderson, Donna Simons, and Dr. Erika CruzDeWayne sits down with Ashley, Donna, and Erika about their backgrounds and the inspirational women in their lives.Introductions (0:00-1:30)Backstories (1:30-8:13)Favorite Subject, Favorite Teachers (8:13-13:53)Why LISD? (13:53-21:43)Why Women’s History Month is Important in LISD (21:43-27:54)Open Discussion (27:54-35:41)Outro (35:41-36:16)2025-03-2635 minCollaborative PartnersChild FindLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by Child Find Coordinator, Monica Kaloustian to discuss Child FindAshley starts by asking Monica to share a little about herself and her role in the district (00:35). Later, Ashley and Monica have a conversation centered around:Child Find (01:46)Parent Questions (3:27)Student Involvement in Meetings (7:24)Ways for Families to Collaborate (13:33)ResourcesCollaborative Partners Question FormSpecial Programs HandbookLISD Child Find2025-03-2414 minCollaborative PartnersSpeech & Language in SchoolsLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by Lead Speech Language Pathologist, Jenny Blackmon to discuss speech services.Ashley starts by asking Jenny to share a little about herself and her role in the district (00:35). Later, Ashley and Jenny have a conversation centered around: Speech Pathologist in the School Setting (01:23) The Difference between School and Community Speech Services (02:04) Speech Development and Language Skills (3:33) Child Find (5:15) Parent Questions (6:08) Supports for Multilingual Families (8:05) Ways for Families to Collaborate (11:12)Resources Collaborative Partners Question Form Special Programs Handbook Speech and Language Development Speech Strat2025-03-0312 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyAfrican American History Month with Leander HS Coach Kris PriceLeander High School’s head football coach and Athletic Coordinator Kris Price joined the Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street to discuss what African American History Month means to them and what it’s like being a coach in this day and age. Price has more than 20 years of coaching experience and has called Leander ISD home for the last six years. He takes pride in preparing his student-athletes for the next level on an athletic and academic level.DeWayne sits down with Coach Price to learn more about him as a coach and pers...2025-02-2531 minCollaborative PartnersDiving into Section 504Leander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by 504 Coordinator, Angela Patrick to discuss supports for our students served under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.Ashley starts by asking Angela to share a little about herself and her role in the district (00:35). Later, Ashley and Angela have a conversation centered around: Understanding Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (01:47) The Difference between Special Education Services and 504 Plans (02:46) 504 Evaluations (4:31) Parent Questions (7:45) Helping Student's Leverage their Strengths (9:10) College Accommodations (10:58) Ways for Families to Collaborate (12:16)Resources Collaborative Partners Question Form Sp...2025-02-1713 minCollaborative PartnersPreparing for TransitionsLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison, Ashley Anderson is joined by Senior Transition Coordinator, Denise Geiger to discuss transition support and services.
Ashley starts by asking Denise to share a little about herself and her role in the district (00:41). Later, Ashley and Denise have a conversation centered around:
LISD Transition History (02:06)
Parent Questions (05:45)
SELF 18+ Services (06:05)
Supporting Students with Dignity (10:25)
Moving from High School to 18+ Services (12:45)
Post-Secondary Education Accommodations (13:50)
Summary of Performance (17:16)
Employment Accommodations (18:59)
Job Accommodation Network (20:54)
Levels of Independence (21:42)
Ways for Families to Collaborate (21:42)
Resources:
Collaborative Partners Question Form
...2025-02-0524 min
Progress Texas PodcastsDaily Dispatch 2/4/25: Protests Against Trump and Abbott Immigration Policies Spread, and MoreStories we're following this morning at Progress Texas:
Protests against Donald Trump and Greg Abbott's immigration policies and deportation efforts have begun rising across Texas, including Houston: https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/politics/immigration/2025/02/03/512709/hundreds-march-through-west-houston-in-opposition-of-immigration-policy-changes/
...And Conroe: https://www.khou.com/article/news/local/immigration-protest-arrests-conroe-texas/285-add40d0c-73a2-466a-a1b8-76358d4861e4
...And Austin: https://www.fox7austin.com/news/anti-ice-protest-north-lamar-rutland-drive-north-austin-texas
...And San Antonio: https://www.sacurrent.com/news/san-antonio-isd-students-organize-walkout-to-protest-threat-of-ice-raids-in-schools-36678048
...And Leander: https://www.fox7austin.com/news/leander-texas-glenn-high-school-students-walkout-protest-ice
...Meanwhile a national protest...2025-02-0409 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyMLK Day with Rodney Page2025 marks the 39th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. MLK was a pioneer and trailblazer who inspired many during his time and continues to be a source of wisdom and guidance today.
The guest for this episode of On the Street, Rodney Page, was one of many who took the civil rights leaders’ words to heart. Page went on to become not only the first women’s basketball coach at the University of Texas but also the first African American coach at UT.
Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street sat down...2025-01-2051 min
High School Football News for Austin TXAustin's High School Football Playoffs: Surprises, Standouts, and the Road to VictoryIn the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, the high school football scene is buzzing with excitement as the 2024 season comes to a close and the playoffs kick off. Here are the highlights that have everyone talking.### Austin High's Triumphant Return to PlayoffsAfter a four-year hiatus, Austin High School's football team has secured a playoff spot, defying the odds in a thrilling matchup against Bowie. Led by the stellar performance of Bryson Batts, who scored two touchdowns and made crucial plays on special teams, Austin High emerged victorious, silencing predictions that had Bowie winning by a...2025-01-0303 minCollaborative PartnersExploring Behavior SupportsLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison Ashley Anderson is joined by Behavior Specialist Bonnie White to discuss behavioral supports available for students.
Ashley starts by asking Bonnie to share a little about herself (00:36) .
Later, Ashley and Bonnie have a conversation centered around:
(03:22) Student Successes
(05:21) Parent Questions
(06:29) Requesting an Evaluation for Services
(07:19) Behaviors Across Settings
(11:11) Behavior Supports at School
(13:30) Ways for Families to Collaborate2024-12-0314 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyNative American Heritage Month with Fran HarperChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Camacho Elementary School Instructional Assistant Fran Harper to speak about her 17-year journey in LISD and what Native American Heritage Month means to her.
(00:43) DeWayne starts by asking Fran about what led her to the instructional assistant role.
Later, DeWayne and Fran have a conversation centered around:
(07:36) The importance of celebrating Native American Heritage Month
(13:35) Raising awareness of Native American communities
(17:19) Research the history
(24:04) Closing 2024-11-2024 minCollaborative PartnersMaking ConnectionsLeander ISD’s Special Programs Parent Liaison Ashley Anderson is joined by Low Incidence Disability Coordinator Lisa Robertson to discuss Special Programs resources and ways to connect with your community.
Ashley starts by asking Lisa to share a little about her backstory as a person and a professional (00:40).
Later, Ashley and Lisa have a conversation centered around:
(14:29) Ways for Families to Collaborate
(01:37) Low Incidence Disabilities
(02:34) Individualized Community Academic Program aka ICAP
(03:15) Parenting Neurodivergent Children
(06:12) Getting Support for Your Family
(7:05) Preparing for Your Admission Review an...2024-11-1815 minOn the Street: A #1LISD Journey#1LISD with Tom Glenn and Bruce GearingChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street had a special two-guest episode – current LISD Superintendent Bruce Gearing and Tom Glenn, a former LISD superintendent – to discuss the idea of #1LISD and, more specifically, the importance of unity across our 200-square-mile school district.
Tom was able to offer a unique perspective of LISD being a one high school town – and just six schools in all – in the 1980s when he started as superintendent. Bruce's experience as superintendent of a school district with six feeder patterns and 48 schools offered interesting contrasts and challenges.
At the end of th...2024-10-3043 minCollaborative PartnersAAC Awareness MonthIn the inaugural podcast for the Special Programs' department – Collaborative Partners – Ashley Anderson, the Special Programs Parent Liaison, is joined by Assistive Technology Specialist Cici Fritts to discuss Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness.
(00:45) Ashley starts by asking Cici to share a little about her backstory as a person and a professional.
Later, Ashley and Cici have a conversation centered around:
(01:25) Communication Board Project
(02:10) Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
(03:13) How Parents Can Find Out How Their Child Would Benefit From Assistive Technology
(04:13) Challenges of Using AAC
(5:56) P...2024-10-2812 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyHispanic Heritage Month with Martha HinojosaChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited one of Leander ISD's district receptionists, Martha Hinojosa, to learn more about her journey and what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her. In her current role, she serves as one of the first people community members interact with when seeking to learn more about the district. Martha started with LISD in 1996, and over the past nearly 30 years, she's worn many hats at campuses across the district – all while raising a family and seeing her kids graduate from LISD schools.
(00:39) DeWayne starts by asking Martha to share a li...2024-10-0517 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneySafety & Security with Shā RogersChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Leander ISD’s new executive director of safety and security, Shā Rogers, to speak about her law enforcement background and what led her to be a police officer in public education. Rogers joined Leander ISD in May. Her position will transition to become the chief of police after LISD’s police department application has been approved by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
Video Format2024-09-2331 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyCultural Competency with Dr. Bruce GearingBack for Season 2, the On the Street podcast will continue to explore opportunities to continue the conversation around educational access and highlight #1LISD’s efforts around increasing cultural competency for Leander ISD staff. Our work is about bringing people into the conversation and increasing dialectical practice.
Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., to share his thoughts on the topic of cultural competency.
Video Format2024-09-1136 min
Texas Minute9.11.2024: Dade Phelan gets another challenger.Phelan Used Government Plane for Personal Benefit and Campaign Fundraising…Cole Hefner Used State Plane to Skip Impeachment Vote, but “Voted” Anyway…James Frank Challenges Phelan for Speakership…Leander ISD Middle School Publicly Shared Students’ Vaccine Records…2024-09-1105 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyLGBTQ+ Pride Month with Dr. Matthew GutierrezChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Leander ISD Chief of Schools Matthew Gutierrez, Ed.D., to speak about his journey in education and the meaning and history of LGBTQ+ Pride Month.
DeWayne starts by asking Matthew about himself as a person and a practitioner, along with his favorite childhood memory (00:49).
Later, DeWayne and Matthew have a conversation centered around:
(09:03) The connection between educational access & resources
(19:32) Favorite educator
(22:13) The importance of observing LGBTQ+ Pride Month
(25:56) Connecting the struggle...2024-06-0431 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyBrown v. Board of Education’s 70th Anniversary with Shawn SwisherIn recognition of the 70th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision, Chief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Shawn Swisher, LISD’s general counsel in the Legal Services department, to commemorate the Brown v. Board of Education court case and reflect on the ripple it has had throughout the country.
(00:48) DeWayne starts by asking Shawn about his background as a person and a practitioner in the education space.
Later, DeWayne and Shawn have a conversation centered around:
(05:52) Why choose education as a...2024-05-1533 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyAsian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Ramona KarChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Leander High School Instructional Assistant and Job Coach Ramona Kar to speak about her journey and the significance of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month.
(00:52) DeWayne starts by asking about Ramona’s background and what attracted her to Leander ISD.
Later, DeWayne and Ramona have a conversation centered around:
(03:55) Ramona’s transition to the U.S.
(07:27) Advice she’d give her younger self
(11:25) Why celebrate AAPI Heritage Month?
(14:40) Closing 2024-05-1515 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyCelebrate Diversity Month with Charlie LittleChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Vandegrift High School Principal Charlie Little to speak about his journey and the significance of Celebrate Diversity Month.
(00:46) DeWayne starts by asking about his background as a person and as an educator.
Later, DeWayne and Charlie have a conversation centered around:
(07:05) Leading in a fluid environment of changing ethnic and income diversity
(16:55) Fostering different types of diversity
(27:40) Favorite educator
(31:39) The importance of celebrating diversity
(34:38) Closing
--
2024-04-1636 min
SLP Coffee TalkAAC as a Busy School SLP with Cici Fritts and Candace HaydenDo you find AAC overwhelming? You aren’t alone! No need to worry though, because in this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, I sat down with Cici Fritts and Candace Hayden. They are experts in all things technology and AAC for our speech students and they are here to help you understand how to best help your students with their communication through AAC. Topics covered in this episode include:How Cici and Candace help educate others on AAC use in speechHow to embrace AAC if there are no AAC...2024-04-0833 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyWomen's History Month with Angela Hodges, Tracie Franco & Jody HormannChief of the Office of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited a panel of guests – Area Superintendent Angela Hodges, Senior Director of Transportation Tracie Franco and Senior Executive Director of Campus Activities Jody Hormann – to speak about their journey and the significance of Women’s History Month.
DeWayne starts by asking the three of them to share a little bit about themselves personally and professionally and why they chose the field of education. For good measure, he asked about their favorite teacher (00:48).
Later, DeWayne and the group have a conversation centered around:
Lessons learned (12:27)
...2024-03-1934 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyA Culture of Voting & the State of Public Education with Dr. Bruce GearingIn the first video episode of the podcast, Chief of Educational Access DeWayne Street invited Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., to speak about the Culture of Voting in Leander ISD and the state of public education.
Don’t forget! Early voting ends Friday, March 1, and then Election Day is Tuesday, March 5. The Compass: A Culture of Voting
DeWayne starts by asking Bruce to share a little bit about Bruce’s passion for public education and where that journey began (00:40). Later, DeWayne and Bruce have a conversation centered around:
What was the impact of Gearin...2024-02-2831 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyAfrican-American History Month with DeWayne StreetIn a special role-reversal episode of the podcast, Chief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion DeWayne Street served as the guest while Chief Communications Officer Crestina Hardie played host, asking him to speak about his journey and the significance of African-American History Month.
Crestina starts by asking DeWayne to share a little bit about himself as a person and as a professional (01:05). Later, Crestina and DeWayne have a conversation centered around:
Street’s roots in education (03:36)
Importance of African-American history (10:06)
Why has African-American history become polarizing? (14:26)
Putting in the work (16:46)
Closing (19:00)
2024-02-0619 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyMLK Day with Vincent HawkinsChief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion DeWayne Street invited Vincent Hawkins, the principal of Rouse High School, to speak about his journey and the significance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
DeWayne asks Vincent to share a little bit about himself and what led him to become and educator (01:07). Later, DeWayne and Vincent have a conversation centered around:
What Does MLK Day Mean in 2024? (09:21)
How Hawkins’ Life Would Be Different Without the Work of Dr. King (14:46)
Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy as Practitioners (22:27)
About Hawkins’ Journey (24:36)
2024-01-1227 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyEquitable Access with Paulette JonesChief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion DeWayne Street invited Paulette Jones, the dean of instruction at Glenn High School, to speak about the focus on equitable access and students' opportunities to take advanced classes and AP courses.
DeWayne asks Paulette to share a little bit about herself and what led her to become and educator (01:15). Later, DeWayne and Paulette have a conversation centered around:
The Role of Enhancing Educational Access (05:03)
The Importance of Enhancing Educational Access (09:49)
Advice for Signing Up for Advanced Courses (13:33)
A Rewarding Experience as a Dean of Instruction (16:38)
2023-12-2018 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyNative American Heritage Month with Tracy EdwardsFor Native American Heritage Month, Chief of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion DeWayne Street invited Tracy Edwards, a special education teacher at Akin Elementary, to speak about her journey and the significance of the month.
DeWayne asks Tracy to share a little bit about her journey (01:10). Later, DeWayne and Tracy have a conversation centered around:
Growing Up Native American (02:31)
Rock Your Mocs Week (06:12)
Family History (07:21)
Critical Issues Facing Native Americans Today (13:22)
Importance of the Month (16:46)
Who Tracy Admired Growing Up (20:16)
2023-11-1522 min
The Path ForwardNew BeginningsWelcome back to The Path Forward at the TASA/TASB TexED Conference! In today's episode, Rick Fernandez is joined by Dr. Matthew Gutiérrez, former Superintendent of Seguin ISD. Join us today as we dive into Dr. Matthew Gutiérrez’s time at Seguin ISD and his massive impact on the school. Matthew is now looking ahead and moving into a role at Leander ISD as the Chief of Schools, in this episode he shares more about his excitement for the future and his reasons for moving. You won’t want to miss this check-in with a great and influe...2023-11-1322 minOn the Street: A #1LISD JourneyHispanic Heritage Month with Dr. Sally SosaIn the inaugural podcast for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – On the Street: A #1LISD Journey – DeWayne Street, the Chief of DEI, invited the recently hired principal for River Ridge Elementary, Dr. Sally Sosa, to speak about her journey and the significance of Hispanic Heritage Month.
DeWayne asks Sally to share a little bit about her journey (1:41). Later, DeWayne and Sally have a conversation centered around the following questions:
Why was education so important? (3:23)
Why is it important to observe Hispanic Heritage Month? (11:17)
How has her identity impacted her journey as an educator and a le...2023-09-2624 min
Progress Texas PodcastsDaily Dispatch 9/19/23: Paxton Legal Hurdles Remain, and MoreFollowing his acquittal from impeachment, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faces even more serious state and federal charges: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/18/us/texas-ken-paxton-legal-problems.html
...While Republicans who voted to convict him face problems from within their own party: https://www.texastribune.org/2023/09/16/ken-paxton-impeachment-kelly-hancock-robert-nichols/
...Former President Trump takes credit (of course) for Paxton's acquittal: https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4210367-trump-says-he-saved-paxton-from-being-convicted-in-texas-impeachment-push/
...And Senator Angela Paxton spins the affair (no pun intended) into an opportunity for anti-feminist religious manipulation: https://www.texasmonthly.com/news-politics/angela-paxton-ken-impeachment-biblical-womanhood/
Governor Greg Abbott spews Epoch Times falsehoods about...2023-09-1909 min
The Texan PodcastWeekly Roundup - August 11, 2023Show off your Lone Star spirit with a free Texas flag hat with an annual subscription to The Texan: https://go.thetexan.news/texas-flag-hat/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=weekly_roundupThe Texan’s Weekly Roundup brings you the latest news in Texas politics, breaking down the top stories of the week with our team of reporters who give you the facts so you can form your own opinion. Enjoy what you hear? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Got questions for the reporting team? Email editor@thetexan.new...2023-08-111h 01
Empowered Endeavors: Business Strategy for the Purpose-DrivenLife After Divorce with Kelly MabryMeet Kelly Mabry, a Leander ISD Dance Team Director who is slaying this life after divorce stage in life.
She has been divorced for 13 years. She has two daughters, two step-children, and has now been remarried for 8 years.
She and her husband are empty-nesters who have successfully launched all 4 of their children into adulthood.
She has many wise words on what it means to heal after divorce and how to balance taking care of a blended family and making sure your own needs are being met.
You can follow Kelly here:2023-06-0819 min
Accelerating Texas K12 ScienceSTAT Teacher Spotlight: Olga de la Torre GuzmanThe STAT Teacher Spotlight is a video Q&A series featuring great teachers who inspire discovery of the world through science. If you know a colleague with an amazing story, nominate them to be featured in a future Teacher Spotlight by emailing STAT at stat@statweb.org with the subject line Teacher Spotlight.Meet Olga de la Torre Guzman, who has been working in various positions in education for almost 19 years. She has taught in two countries: Mexico and the United States. She held several leadership positions in Mexico, such as Director of Academic Services in EGADE...2023-04-1026 min
Accelerating Texas K12 EducationSTAT Teacher Spotlight: Olga de la Torre GuzmanThe STAT Teacher Spotlight is a video Q&A series featuring great teachers who inspire discovery of the world through science. If you know a colleague with an amazing story, nominate them to be featured in a future Teacher Spotlight by emailing STAT at stat@statweb.org with the subject line Teacher Spotlight.Meet Olga de la Torre Guzman, who has been working in various positions in education for almost 19 years. She has taught in two countries: Mexico and the United States. She held several leadership positions in Mexico, such as Director of Academic Services in EGADE...2023-04-1026 min
The TXWaterpolo PodcastEuro Friendlies, ODP Super Regionals, LISD Opts OutListeners get some special inside info about how high flying podcasting actually works. That and we intro the new year with a review of the USA Men's National Team friendlies in North Texas, ODP's new and improved Super Regional tournament, and we preview the coming spring highlighting just how different it will be from past years. And, to punctuate, we introduce the subject of the Leander ISD publicly stating that it cannot sponsor UIL water polo in 2023.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-txwaterpolo-podcast/donations2023-01-2231 minAccelerating Texas K12 EducationAdvancing Science Teaching with Jennifer MeyerThe Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT) serves and supports a diverse community of science educators across the state representing varying geographies, grade levels, disciplines, and areas of science. But one common thread amongst the STAT community is the passion for “inspiring discovery of the world through science.” The Inspiring Leaders series focuses on STAT volunteer leaders, their experiences as educators, and ways they believe the Texas science education community can continue to inspire students’ discovery of the world through science. In this episode, learn from Jennifer Meyer, 2021-2022 STAT President and elementary science coordinator for Le...2022-09-2321 min
The Librarian Influencers PodcastCollection Development Matters: with Becky Calzada and Liz Philippi The Librarian Influencers of the Week is a dynamic Texas duo! Let’s meet Becky Calzada and Liz Philippi. Becky is the District Library Coordinator in Leander ISD. Liz Philippi is the School Program Coordinator for the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. Shownotes: https://www.laurasheneman.com/post/collection-development-matters-with-becky-calzada-and-liz-phillppi2022-04-1540 min
After SectionalsAS 614 - High ExpectationsIn this special episode I am joined by friend and colleague Robert Herrings from our sister school Henry Middle School in Leander ISD. We talk about our time working the GMEA Middle School All State Bands as well as what high expectations LOOKS like in our band halls. Hint hint: it's not yelling, tears, and hating band.2022-03-091h 20
Sketchbook with Daniel Montoya Jr.Hector Gil (Vista Ridge HS)Hector Gil is in his 18th year of teaching and joined the staff at Vista Ridge High School and Henry Middle School as the Director of Percussion in 2008. He attended Texas A&M University-Commerce where he received his Bachelor of Music Education degree in 2001, and he completed one year of graduate work at Texas Christian University. While at A&M – Commerce, and TCU, Mr. Gil performed in various ensembles including the Texas A&M University-Commerce Wind Ensemble, the Texas A&M University-Commerce Drumline, the Texas A&M University-Commerce Steel Band, the Texas Christian University Wind Symphony, the Texas Christian University Sy...2022-03-081h 34
MG Book PartyfREADom Fighters InterviewWe are so pleased to join two wonderful school librarians, and members of the @FReadomFighters—Nancy Jo Lambert and Becky Calzada for an interview about censorship, #FReadom, and access to books for children. Along with Carolyn Foote and other librarian colleagues, these women launched the #FReadom hashtag which has trended nationally to the tune of 13,000 tweets! Their goal: Shine a light on the positive impact that books make as we ensure they are accessible from many diverse viewpoints. These educators inspired us, striving to unite everyone behind the common goal of connecting children with books as we fo...2022-02-0929 min
Sketchbook with Daniel Montoya Jr.Zach Santos (Vista Ridge HS)Zach Santos graduated from Round Rock High School in 2014. He attended the University of Texas at Austin where he received his bachelor’s degree in music studies in 2018. While attending UT he earned his trumpet performance certificate from the Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music, and his business foundations certificate from the McCombs School of Business.
Zach is currently one of the associate band directors at Vista Ridge High School in Cedar Park, Texas. His responsibilities include choreographing for the marching band, assisting in rehearsal, and conducting the symphonic and concert bands. Zach's professional experience includes consulting for Rhythmic Fo...2022-02-011h 22
The Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Monday January 24 2022Local COVID hospitalization rate saw a slight single-day drop on Friday, but hospitals remain crushed and positivity rates sky-high. FEMA is to step in locally to help with testing. Two downtown demonstrations over the weekend - one against abortion at the Capitol and one for stronger COVID precautions for Round Rock ISD at the Governor's Mansion. New Texas teachers are quitting after a single year in droves. District 4's special election for its City Council seat sees the end of early voting, with only Election Day tomorrow to go - less than 6% have turned out thus far. A Leander...2022-01-2410 minThe Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Tuesday January 18, 2022The MLK holiday creates a lag in COVID stat reporting, but Friday's count indicated a continued climb in numbers. New COVID safety signage rules for local businesses went into effect Monday. Hutto, Lago Vista and Johnson City ISD's delay the return to class after MLK weekend for its students. A petition-driven ballot initiative to decriminalize marijuana possession and outlaw no-knock warrants will be considered for enactment by the Austin City Council tonight. Early voting to replace Greg Casar in the District 4 City Council seat sees very slow turnout - KUT and the Austin Monitor will host another candidate forum...2022-01-1807 minThe Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Friday January 7 2022Our local COVID related hospitalization average has surpassed the peak of the first pandemic wave of the summer of 2020. Complicating things, hospital, medical and first responder staffs are impacted with high sick outages. Same for teachers, with Austin, Leander and Lake Travis ISD's facing difficulty covering classes and student transit. Austin returns to Stage 5 precautions, but their dining guidelines are inconsistent with limitations placed on local restaurants by the state. Round Rock ISD superintendent Dr. Hafedh Azaiez finds himself suspended amid accusations related to an alleged mistress, and further accusations that he has inappropriately directed school police to silence...2022-01-0709 minThe Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Wednesday December 15, 2021Daily average of new COVID hospitalizations hits a steady five-day rise, while local CRT continues rising as well. City and County officials extend pandemic mandates through June - new studies show only a 30% protection rate for current vaccines against infection, but better protection against severe disease. Austin Water is distributing meter keys and bib covers to help locals prepare for future winter freezes. Williamson County officials agree to a $5 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Javier Ambler's family, while WilCo commissioners withhold federal relief funds from Round Rock and Leander ISD's over books in their libraries...2021-12-1509 minThe Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Thursday November 4 2021Local COVID numbers continue gradual drop through Stage 2 range as two pandemic-related state constitutional amendments are overwhelmingly approved. Leander ISD leaders consider next steps as two bond elections to fund public schools are voted down. Austin Fire Department arson investigators release photos of a man suspected of firebombing the Congregation Beth Israel synagogue on Halloween night. Fredericksburg-area State Rep Kyle Biedermann is stepping down. Texas Football sees a possible discipline-related departure, a second recent transfer portal departure, and the crazy Halloween Monkey Bite story gets even crazier. Austin FC wins its last home match of the club's inaugural season...2021-11-0409 min
The Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Monday August 30, 2021Our thoughts focus on New Orleans and the rest of Louisiana impacted by Hurricane Ida - the extent of the damage will become more clear today. Local COVID stats regarding new hospitalizations and deaths remain steady at a higher than comfortable rate - deaths are now surpassing last year's count for August. UT begins offering prizes up to $10k for shots, but are still not requiring vaccines or masks. The City increases requirements for public event permits. Leander ISD sends two middle schools worth of sixth graders home for 10 days. Austin Police Department officers and staff lag behind the...2021-08-3009 minThe Austin Daily DropAustin Daily Drop - Wednesday August 25, 2021Local COVID hospitalizations hold a high plateau, while deaths begin to climb - a daily average of 4 in Austin, and half of recent COVID deaths in Williamson County are people under 50, all unvaccinated. Cases are jumping anew, especially among people under 18, and Austin Public Health draws a connection to school resuming. AISD reacts to the new Pfizer vaccine FDA approval with incentives, and likely eventual vaccine requirements for staff. Leander ISD defies advice from WilCo Health, refusing to shut down in spite of a big spike. AISD finds considerable traffic from Kazakhstan amidst online commentary on masking policy. Austin...2021-08-2509 min
The Monica Cline ShowEroticizing Sexual Abuse - Part 1Eroticizing Sexual Abuse In Your Child's Public School Library. Sexual abuse should never be trivialized and certainly not eroticized. The parents of Leander ISD in Texas are combatting the school district over their approved list of sexually explicit books that eroticize sexual abuse, adult child "romantic" relationships, sexual violence and racism. The books are written at a 3rd grade reading level, but Leander ISD continues to defend these books as literary achievements that address "diversity." Find out from a parent leader how they are fighting the district and what you can do to investigate your own schoo...2021-03-2226 min
Sketchbook with Daniel Montoya Jr.Yearbook, w/Jameil Brown: Leander ISDWelcome to the newest series on Sketchbook titled, Yearbook. Listen to Jameil Brown and me take a look back at shows, contests, schools, eras, highlights, records, or whatever marching arts-related topic we decide we want to talk about. In this episode, we discuss the Leander Independent School District.
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Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sketchbookpodcast/message2021-03-011h 53
Cyber Security Grey Beard®S2E5 Cyber Security Threats in Remote Work and School EnvironmentsToday's remote work and school environments enhance cyber security risks. I discuss real attacks and technologies now bypassed due to work at home policies. With so many new devices, and millions of additional individuals working and going to school remotely, there are increased and enhanced threats impacting anyone utilizing devices to access the Internet. I conclude with solutions and dwell on the fact that we all must be diligent to this new world of Internet access.Thank you Populum for sponsoring this episode. https://populum.com/. Thank you Anita A. of Canada for this Topic....2020-09-1615 min
Mastering Social Media for SchoolsStorytelling through Podcasts with Justin DearingStorytelling takes many forms. Podcasts might be the next medium for your school to consider! IN THIS EPISODE, JUSTIN DIVES INTOThe secret behind adding over 2,500 Instagram followers to the school’s account in one yearThe process of including student interns in communications effortsWhy your district should consider starting a podcastWhat type of podcast format might work the best for your schoolSPECIAL GUESTJustin DearingA...2020-06-1543 min