Transforming Public Schools: Don Haddad and Jackie Kapushion Discuss Their Vision

More Than a Test

In today's episode, we are honored to have, Don Haddad and Jackie Kapushion, leaders in the St. Vrain Valley School District. We'll explore how high schools can prepare students for diverse post-graduation pathways, from college to vocational fields and the military. Our guests will also address the importance of learning durable skills beyond standardized tests, along with the challenges posed by reduced classroom time and four-day school weeks.

Don and Jackie share their concerns about the politicization of public education and emphasize prioritizing students' needs. Don sheds light on his legislative efforts and the critical role public education plays as an equalizer, while Jackie aligns with Don's vision for creating pathways to success for all students. We'll also touch on personal anecdotes, their love for technology, and influential books that shape their educational philosophies.

Facing rapid growth—from 33,000 to an anticipated 70,000 students—the district's impressive performance in academics, arts, and athletics is a testament to its dedication. With initiatives like the STEM diploma and encouraging college credits before graduation, St. Vrain Valley is setting high standards.

Join us as we uncover the compelling vision behind St. Vrain Valley's achievements and explore the critical focus on delivering personalized education in today’s competitive environment.

Timestamps

00:00 Quality public education is crucial for America.

05:33 Competing in the education market, urgency, and responsiveness.

07:26 High school students seek specific education paths.

12:52 Balanced community with strong school-business partnership.

16:54 Embracing diversity, competitive advantage, and strong education.

19:50 Saint Vrain ensures readiness for various paths.

24:44 Competency-based education challenges traditional school.

26:45 School year shortened, impacting education and competitiveness.

33:23 Urging the state to elevate education standards with integrity.

37:13 Advocating for children's best interests is crucial.

41:09 Principal vs superintendent responsibilities, scale, management.

44:36 Safety and well-being are crucial for schools.

48:52 Reading books led to a better learning experience.

51:41 Passion for education and equality in society.

Connect with Don Haddad

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-haddad-ed-d-622a3650

Website: https://www.svvsd.org/

Connect with Jackie Kapushion

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-kapushion-ed-d-b5940921/

Website: https://www.svvsd.org/

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About More Than a Test

Our goal is to take a hard look at the shortcomings in literacy education and tech while still finding a sense of hope in what's possible in education through learning and technology.

Our guests include non-profit leaders, tech CEOs, state and district leadership, research leaders from top institutions, and a few teachers with stories that might bring you to tears.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0JWhVG2nXZfC3FxOviFoR0

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-a-test/id1685012543

Listen on Other Platforms: https://more-than-a-test.captivate.fm/

About Amira Learning

Amira is the world’s first intelligent reading assistant that provides personalized tutoring to students at school, after school, or home. Students working with Amira experience significant improvements in their reading fluency.

About your Host, Laura Glaab

Laura Glaab is a VP of Strategy at Amira Learning. She is a lifetime educator following behind educator parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents.

She's worked as a teacher and leader in public, private, and charter schools in places as far as India and as close to home as Boulder, Colorado. She holds degrees from Stanford, the University of Wyoming, and Kellogg School of Management.

Everyone should read Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw and the entire Piggie and Elephant Collection by Mo Willems.

Connect with Laura

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab/

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Produced by Old Soul: https://bit.ly/3KuYfrD