CC#117: Career Reflections from the Many Chairs w/ Principal Mike Wiley (USD 233) and Asst. Superintendent of Special Education Dr. Mark Schmidt (USD 229)

SHOW SUMMARY: In this heartfelt conversation, two seasoned educators, Mike Wiley, Principal of California Trail Middle School of Olathe Public Schools (USD 233) and Dr. Mark Schmidt, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education in the Blue Valley School District (USD 229), both retiring at the end of the 2025-26 school year, share insights on their careers, leadership, and the evolving landscape of education. They reflect on impactful moments, mentorship, and the importance of resilience, listening, and purpose in shaping future educators. Connect with the guests: Mike Wiley Dr. Mark Schmidt Other Cool Coffee Episodes Featuring Principal Mike Wiley CC#9: “See you at the Crosswalk” https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-gx8ec-16eadbd CC#25: “Father’s Club” https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-572p4-1728fd6 CC#30: “The Interview Episode” https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-ddt7a-1789436 CC#86: “Responding to Parents” https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-xpfxa-198a4fe ----------------------------------------------------- Contact Cool Coffee host, Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected] The mission of the Kansas Principals Association, an organization committed to educational excellence and the lifelong success of all students, is to develop and support all principals through optimized learning, collaborative leadership, networking, and service. Read more about the KPA HERE. Provide Cool Coffee feedback! Click HERE to share thoughts and suggestions--including guests to have on the show! Click for ALL Cool Coffee episodes! Connect with Cool Coffee on... Follow us on X: @KSPrincipals; @KPACoolCoffee Facebook: KSPrincipals Contact host Principal Rick Sola: [email protected] or [email protected] Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Reflections 02:52 Navigating the Transition to Retirement 05:28 Mentorship and Leadership Development 08:00 Reflections on Career Experiences 10:36 Changes in Education and Student Dynamics 13:14 Post-COVID Educational Landscape 15:52 The Importance of Listening in Leadership 24:20 The Evolving Role of Principals 25:22 Impacting Students' Lives 26:57 Transitioning to Retirement 34:48 Advice for Aspiring Principals 39:00 The Power of Mentorship