S.4 | Ep. 6: Building Opportunity on Purpose with Superintendent David Ritchey

In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Devoud sits down with David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa Independent School District in rural West Texas. David shares how his district is leading with heart and innovation—creating equitable opportunities through technology, strong Tier 1 instruction, and community-rooted career pathways.Together, Wendy and David explore how Lamesa ISD is transforming teaching and learning by pairing high expectations with genuine care. From providing iPads for every student to launching a P-TECH early-college model that graduates students with certifications or degrees, David’s story reveals how a clear vision and a culture of belonging can change outcomes for an entire community.Key Moments00:00 Overcoming tech glitches and getting started00:51 Innovating with Apple technology in every classroom03:02 Every student—Pre-K through 12—has an iPad05:17 Leading through visibility and relationships07:11 Strengthening Tier 1 instruction district-wide10:38 Launching P-TECH for college and career pathways13:53 Ensuring every graduate leaves with opportunity and choice17:52 Building homegrown leadership and teacher pipelines27:21 Coaching administrators to coach teachers34:33 Leading with empathy, consistency, and careWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis is a powerful look at what’s possible when small districts dream big. Superintendent Ritchey shows how to turn vision into action—through Tier 1 excellence, authentic relationships, and opportunities that last long after graduation. If you believe leadership starts with love and ends with impact, this one’s for you.Connect with Superintendent David RitcheyWebsite: https://www.lamesaisd.net/Follow UsWendy York Devoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryorkLead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.comLead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.