Bridging Policy and Practice in Ohio Schools ft. Craig Burford | Lessons Learned | Ep 2

How do Educational Service Centers (ESCs) help turn policy into practice in Ohio’s schools?“How do you reverse engineer what the future could look like into the type of profession that interests you? That could provide you with the income and the quality of life that you need to be able to do [the things you love]? What's the education you need to get there? And [we’re] finding that in all instances, it doesn't take a four year degree. Trying to force everybody into that—the square peg into a round hole—just doesn't work.” -Craig BurfordIn this episode of Lessons Learned, Matt is joined by Craig Burford, Executive Director of the Ohio ESC Association (OESCA), to discuss the role Educational Service Centers (ESCs) play in shaping student success across the state.With over 25 years of experience in the field, Craig shares how ESCs serve as critical connectors—bridging state legislation with on-the-ground implementation in school districts. The conversation dives into Ohio’s strategic focus on high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and career and technical education (CTE), emphasizing how ESCs support schools in delivering personalized, future-ready learning experiences.Throughout the episode, we explore key topics like:How ESCs provide essential support to districts by leveraging public-private partnerships and shared expertiseThe evolving role of ESCs in aligning student pathways with workforce and postsecondary demandsWhy individualized learning journeys are central to Ohio’s vision for educationThe practical impact of HQIM and CTE initiatives at the local levelHow state-wide efforts are grounded in community context and educator collaborationWhether you’re a policymaker, district leader, or educator, this episode highlights actionable strategies and insights for building responsive, student-centered systems that prepare learners for life after high school.Connect with our guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-e-burford-7b32432/ Website: https://www.oesca.org/home Ways to tune in:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4bzi3DLY1fCuBknsxWySw6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/lessons-learned/id1714296987 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c715776e-3d77-4a8b-806b-207e01b861af YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@betterlesson4313