Voices for Excellence

In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with one of education’s most innovative and heartfelt leaders, Superintendent Glenn Robbins. Together, they explore what it means to lead with authenticity, courage, and compassion in the ever-evolving landscape of education.From redefining school culture through relationships and student voice, to building genuine community partnerships and integrating AI with purpose, Glenn shares how his district has become a living ecosystem of learning, leadership, and innovation.Listeners will walk away inspired by practical strategies for creating psychological safety, embracing creativity, and leading with calm in the midst of chaos. This is an episode for anyone striving to prepare Generation Alpha and Generation Beta for a world that demands agility, empathy, and relentless curiosity.

Austin ISD is rewriting the playbook on equity in advanced academics. In this Back to School edition of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner is joined by Cody Pruitt, Blake Haygood, and Tony Castilleja of Riverside Insights to explore how the district is leveraging the CogAT to expand opportunity and disrupt traditional measures of achievement. Together, they unpack how Austin ISD is redefining giftedness, creating new pathways into AP and IB programs, and ensuring underrepresented and multilingual learners are recognized for their true abilities. From breaking down systemic barriers to reimagining identification practices, the conversation highlights how culture, mindset, and access are being reshaped in ways that elevate both student confidence and academic success. With practical insights and bold vision, this episode showcases what it means to center access and opportunity, embrace strength-based learning, and build systems that prepare every student—not just a select few—to thrive in the AC (After COVID) stage of education.

In this Back-to-School edition of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Dr. Bill Bradford, Assistant Superintendent of Academics and School Leadership for Fayette County Public Schools (KY). Together they unpack how Fayette County is transforming education through its Portrait of a Graduate 2.0, aligning a five-year strategic plan with classroom practice, and preparing students for the demands of the 22nd century. Dr. Bradford shares how his district has embedded four promises—lifelong learning, civic engagement, future readiness, and resiliency—into every student’s journey from preschool through graduation. He explains how Fayette County empowers teachers as leaders, pilots defenses of learning, and scales innovation across 80 schools. The conversation also explores Fayette’s early work with AI integration, professional learning for both staff and students, and the power of “yes, and” thinking in balancing traditional achievement measures with future-focused competencies. Dr. Bradford closes with his three C’s for the future: communication, collaboration, and confidence—pillars that he believes every system must cultivate to thrive in an unpredictable world.

In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Candice Sears, Director of Instructional Services at the Montgomery County ESC and a leading voice in AI and educational innovation. From remote learning and alternative education programs to statewide AI policy and workforce development, Candice shares how her work is reshaping instruction, aligning systems, and meeting the needs of Gen Alpha and Gen Beta learners. Together, they unpack how Ohio is building statewide coherence around AI readiness, the role of empathy in educational leadership, and the urgent need to shift educators from experts to facilitators. Candice introduces the concept of the “learnerverse,” explains what future-ready learning truly means, and offers practical strategies for implementing AI in ways that enhance—not replace—human connection. This episode is a powerful exploration of how emerging technologies, thoughtful design, and human-centered leadership can transform education from the classroom to the policy level.

In this thought-provoking episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Steven Iglesias—Chief Innovation Officer at Doral Academy and one of Florida’s most forward-thinking voices in educational AI. Together, they explore the urgent need to reimagine the education system for the era of AI, automation, and superintelligence. The conversation challenges outdated assumptions, including the overreliance on test scores and one-size-fits-all models, and calls for a radical reframe: from teaching tools to teaching thinking. Steven breaks down why schools need to emphasize resilience, agency, and relevance—equipping students with real-world skills through experiential learning, not just rote instruction. They also unveil the AI Mindset Institute—a new professional learning initiative launching Fall 2025, built to help educational leaders develop the strategic mindset, fluency, and practical frameworks needed to integrate AI into learning ecosystems with confidence and clarity. This episode is a must-listen for education leaders ready to move beyond theory and take action in shaping a future-ready generation.

In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Wes Kriesel, Administrator of Innovation and AI at the Orange County Department of Education, to unpack what real innovation in education looks like. Together, they explore the difference between flashy tech and meaningful use, the need for a two-brain approach to AI governance and experimentation, and why equity, fluency, and humanity must drive every decision we make. Wes offers a grounded, systems-level perspective on aligning AI tools with instructional goals, preparing students for emerging careers, and building learning communities rooted in purpose, curiosity, and joy.

What does it really take to lead with courage, clarity, and conviction—especially when the political winds are shifting? In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with the unstoppable LK Monroe—former Alameda County Superintendent of Schools and founder of TeamED Up for Good—to unpack what legacy leadership looks like in the A/C (After COVID) era of education. From navigating the political realities of elected leadership to building bridges between athletes, artists, and educators, LK shares her lived experience as a third-generation educator who never intended to follow in her family’s footsteps—but did so with bold vision and unshakable purpose. Together, they tackle: The real meaning of leadership when kids come first—even when it costs you.How to help non-educators (like NBA stars) support schools the right way.Why culturally responsive teaching isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the reality of who’s in our classrooms.The uncomfortable but necessary tension of integrating AI and innovation in learning.Why LK’s leadership mantra—Justice, Partnership, Excellence—is more relevant than ever. Whether you’re a superintendent, a system leader, or someone passionate about transforming education for the next generation, this conversation will leave you challenged, inspired, and better equipped to lead.

In this special episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner takes the guest seat as Executive Producer Serena Reynolds steps in as host. Together, they unpack the vision, research, and real-world impact behind the Agile Diagnostic and AI Platform—a groundbreaking system transforming how school districts approach strategy, change management, and continuous improvement. Dr. Conner shares the origin story of the platform, the science behind the Disruptive Effect Model, and why preparing for the 22nd century starts now. The conversation explores how AI-powered insights, research-driven frameworks, and future-ready thinking are helping education leaders design more responsive, equitable systems. With powerful takeaways on continuous improvement and what it means to lead in the A/C stage of education (After COVID), this episode offers a bold, behind-the-scenes look at the future of education—and the tools to help leaders shape it.

In this episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Jennifer Womble—Chair of the Future of Education Technology Conference (FETC) and District Administration—to explore how AI, innovation, and authentic leadership are reshaping the education landscape. They discuss what it takes to build scalable professional development, the power of one-on-one tutoring powered by AI, the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades, and how schools can start building intentional, human-centered strategies for today—not tomorrow. With real-world insight and boundless optimism, Jennifer offers a roadmap for school leaders to embrace the now and lead with purpose.

In this powerful episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with Christine Fowler-Mack—former Superintendent of Akron Public Schools and current CEO of Reimagine Solutions—to unpack what it truly takes to lead large, complex school systems in the A/C (After COVID) stage of education. Christine shares her three signature leadership principles—authenticity, adaptive coherence, and collective genius—and challenges us to move from compliance-driven practices to bold, equity-centered transformation. Together, they explore the critical intersection of policy, innovation, and human-centered design, highlighting how generative AI, disciplined inquiry, and intentional pacing can elevate outcomes for all students. Whether you're a superintendent, strategist, or systems leader, this conversation offers actionable insight on how to lead with purpose—and build blueprints that last.

Dr. James Lane is the chief executive officer of PDK International and Educators Rising. He most recently served as Acting Assistant Secretary and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education after serving as Senior Advisor to U.S. Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona.

Susan M. Bearden, CETL is a strategic, growth-oriented education technology leader who approaches IT from an educator mindset. A former teacher and K12 IT leader, she is currently the CEO of Bearden Education Technology Consulting and is passionate about facilitating best practices in education technology in support of innovative teaching and learning.

Dr. Barber is currently the Deputy Superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools. Barber has more than 20 years of experience as an educator, having previously served as superintendent of Frankfort Independent Schools and more. In that position, Dr. Barber established highly qualified, cross-functional teams in order to streamline district operations and foster greater communication and connection between stakeholders.

Dr. Pedro Roman joined the Hyde Park Central School District as the Superintendent of Schools in July 2023. In his role as Superintendent, Dr. Roman is responsible for working with the Hyde Park Board of Trustees and school community to promote the district’s vision and mission, manage finances, personnel, and resources, and ensure students and staff have optimal teaching and learning conditions to empower them to strive for excellence and embrace the opportunities of our globally connected world.

Dr. Lisa Schleer brings over three decades of PK-12 administrative and special education expertise to her role as founder and CEO of LMS Educational Consulting. Her approach integrates data-driven decision-making with deep expertise in educational equity, as evidenced by her doctoral research on postsecondary access for Black and Hispanic low-income students.

Danelle Almaraz is an esteemed educational leader with an impressive track record over three decades. Throughout her distinguished career, Danelle’s unwavering commitment to student success and equity has consistently guided her efforts, making her a formidable advocate for the welfare of students, always prioritizing their best interests.

Dr. Vallerie Cave is the Superintendent of Allendale Country Schools. She is an experienced K-12 Turnaround Instructional Leader. Dr. Cave is highly skilled in transformation and school turnaround. She has a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. Vallerie is skilled in Educational Consulting, Classroom Management, Educational Technology, Instructional Design, and Curriculum Development. Dr. Cave is a strong business development professional with a Doctor of Philosophy focused in Leadership and Curriculum from Walden University.

Dr. Andraé Townsel is the Superintendent Calvert County Public Schools who demonstrates commitment to educational excellence. Dr. Townsel has led impressive academic gains, including contributing to Maryland’s meteoric rise in proficiency levels on the latest the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) from 40th to 20th in fourth grade reading nationally, driven by a district-wide commitment to the Science of Reading. 

Kai Frazier is an educator turned EdTech entrepreneur passionate about using technology to provide inclusive and accessible opportunities for underestimated communities. As the founder and CEO of Kai XR, she leads an innovative learning platform that empowers schools to transform education through immersive technologies and high-quality instructional materials (HQIM). Through virtual field trips, collaborative 3D makerspaces, and interactive assessments, Kai XR boosts classroom engagement, fosters deeper learning, and makes education relevant to the modern world.

Ken (He/Him/His) currently holds an M.A. in Education with a specialization in Educational Technology as well as New Media Design and Production. Ken has provided consulting and professional learning support to many school districts/systems Nationally and Internationally as well as businesses, including non-profits, in the areas of educational/learning technology, organizational culture, equity, diversity, inclusion, and race. Ken also works with State Education Departments on educational policy and advocacy.