Season 3, Episode 15 | Monika Hazel, Superintendent and Tavga Bustani, Assistant Superintendent | Fallbrook Union Elementary School District

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 15 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 Monika Hazel, the Superintendent of Fallbrook Union Elementary School District and Tavga Bustani, the Assistant Superintendent of Education Services.  Their Vibrant District and Personal BackgroundsMonika describes Fallbrook Union Elementary School District as a vibrant community nestled in an agricultural area, with a mix of veteran and young teachers.Tavga highlights the student-centered design of the schools, emphasizing the importance of holistic needs and social-emotional support.Monika shares her epiphany about becoming an educator, initially wanting to be a doctor but finding her passion in education after a transformative experience with a supportive teacher.Tavga recounts her journey from an immigrant family to becoming an educator, inspired by kindergarten teachers and a desire to give back to underserved communities.Collective Leadership and Research-Based PracticesMonika discusses the collective effort in Fallbrook, leading to significant gains in student outcomes, recognized by the State of California.The importance of collective efficacy, implementing research-based practices, and living in a culture of continuous improvement is emphasized.Tavga explains the investment in principal leadership, developing their capacity to be in classrooms, and providing professional learning on effective pedagogy.The implementation of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and the alignment of systems and structures to improve student outcomes are highlighted.Challenges and AI ImplementationThe discussion shifts to the challenges faced by the district, including the implementation of AI in education.Tavga mentions the early stages of AI implementation, focusing on maintaining confidentiality and integrity while enhancing teacher practice.Monika emphasizes the importance of aligning AI implementation with core values and involving teachers and students in the conversation.The need to educate the community about AI and its benefits is acknowledged.Mental Health and Student Well-BeingMonika highlights the district's focus on the whole child, including mental health and social-emotional support.The district has a full-time counselor at every school, social workers, behavior techs, and community liaisons to support students.The impact of social media on student anxiety is discussed, with a focus on trauma-informed instruction and creating safe classroom environments.The importance of student voice and involvement in decision-making is emphasized.Curriculum Relevance and Skills AlignmentTavga discusses the importance of curriculum relevance and skills alignment, focusing on essential standards and vertical alignment.The district leverages professional learning communities (PLCs) to identify critical concepts and align assessments to standards.The need to make curriculum relevant by incorporating culturally relevant texts and problem-based learning is highlighted.The challenge of balancing essential standards with innovative teaching practices is acknowledged."Leader in Me" Program and Student LeadershipMonika shares her excitement about Fallbrook being a district-wide "Leader in Me" program, promoting leadership skills for all students.The program includes student-led clubs, assemblies, and Board meetings, fostering a culture of student voice and leadership.The impact of "Leader in Me" on student engagement and leadership development is discussed.The district's commitment to continuing the program and its positive effects on students is emphasized.Personal Interests and PassionsMonika shares her interest in educational policy, influenced by her internship at the White House under President Clinton.Tavga discusses her passion for spending time outdoors with her twins, exploring new places, and gardening.Her interest in school and district culture, influenced by a book study on "The Culture Code," is highlighted.Both Monika and Tavga emphasize the importance of continuous learning and personal growth in their roles as educators.Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 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/