Season 3, Episode 10 | Dr. Rhonda Taylor, Superintendent, Lakeside Union School District and Scott Goergens, Principal, El Capitan HS
Update: 2025-04-10
Description
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 10 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."
Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Taylor, the Superintendent of Lakeside Union School District, joined by the outstanding Principal of El Capitan High School, Scott Goergens.
Background and Career Journeys of Rhonda and Scott
The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934. Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/
Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring Dr. Rhonda Taylor, the Superintendent of Lakeside Union School District, joined by the outstanding Principal of El Capitan High School, Scott Goergens.
Background and Career Journeys of Rhonda and Scott
- Rhonda shares her 32-year tenure with the Lakeside Union School District, starting as a student teacher and progressing through various roles.
- She discusses her time in Poway and her election to the Lakeside School Board, eventually becoming the Superintendent.
- Scott mentions his six-year tenure at El Capitan and his previous roles in Cajon Valley and Lakeside.
- Both Rhonda and Scott reflect on their long-standing professional relationships and mutual support.
- Rhonda highlights the strong community support in Lakeside and the district's involvement in community events like "Touch a Truck."
- She emphasizes the importance of community partnerships and the district's collaboration with El Capitan High School.
- Scott discusses the positive impact of word-of-mouth and community engagement on school enrollment, noting a significant increase in student numbers.
- Both Rhonda and Scott stress the importance of mixed staff demographics and the energy and dedication of young and experienced teachers.
- Rhonda and Scott discuss the collaborative nature of Superintendents and Principals in San Diego County, emphasizing the importance of support and shared perspectives.
- Rhonda mentions the regular meetings and breakfasts with other East County Superintendents to discuss common challenges and solutions.
- Scott shares his long-standing relationship with Rhonda and other Principals, highlighting the value of brainstorming and problem-solving together.
- The conversation touches on the broader context of collaboration in education, particularly in challenging times.
- Rhonda introduces the trilingual program at Riverview, which offers Spanish and Mandarin as primary languages, with English as a third language.
- The program has grown from kindergarten to eighth grade and includes a pathway to El Capitan High School.
- Scott shares his experience with the program, noting its success and the students' ability to communicate fluently in multiple languages.
- The discussion includes the benefits of the program for students, such as multiple seals of biliteracy and opportunities for international travel and cultural exposure.
- Rhonda praises the Dream Academy, a full school with a waiting list, focused on project-based learning and animal-focused projects.
- The Academy provides a unique environment for students who struggle in traditional settings, offering a smaller, more personalized learning experience.
- Scott adds that the Academy's projects are based on state standards and help students develop social skills and a passion for their areas of interest.
- The conversation highlights the importance of providing diverse educational opportunities for students with different learning needs.
- Rhonda discusses the various pathways available at Lakeside, including Project Lead the Way and Future Farmers of America (FFA).
- Scott highlights the dual enrollment program with Grossmont College, allowing students to take college courses on campus and earn credits.
- Both Rhonda and Scott emphasize the importance of providing students with multiple pathways to success, including AP courses and international travel opportunities.
- The discussion underscores the need for flexible and diverse educational programs to meet the needs of all students.
- Rhonda talks about the district's partnership with Viva Wellness and the importance of professional development focused on mental health.
- She mentions the presence of a school counselor at every school site and the use of PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) to foster positive behaviors and mindsets.
- Scott discusses the importance of supporting staff mental health through conversations about hobbies and personal well-being.
- Both Rhonda and Scott emphasize the need for open communication and support systems to address mental health challenges among students and staff.
- Rhonda and Scott discuss the impact of budget cuts on their respective districts and the importance of keeping support for students intact.
- Rhonda mentions the need to cut certain contracts and services while prioritizing student support.
- Scott highlights the importance of community involvement and support for school programs, such as internship opportunities and financial contributions.
- Both emphasize the need for transparency and collaboration with the community to address budget challenges and ensure the success of students.
- Rhonda shares her passion for horses and archery, as well as her interest in country line dancing.
- Scott talks about his love for walking his dogs and trout fishing, noting the relaxation and enjoyment he finds in these activities.
- Both Rhonda and Scott reflect on the importance of personal interests and hobbies in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.
- The conversation concludes with a focus on the personal and professional fulfillment that comes from their work in education.
The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934. Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/
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