Strengths-Based Coaching and Digital Innovation in Atlanta Public Schools.

In this episode, host Doug Roberts sits down with Dr. Melissa Dandy Walker, a digital learning specialist with Atlanta Public Schools, to explore the power of community, mentorship, and innovation in education. Melissa shares insights into her unique role supporting instructional technology bridging math education with digital tools and her creative approach to leadership. From launching initiatives like the district-wide Technology Innovation Competition to expanding opportunities for students and families through programs like Grow with Google, Melissa demonstrates what it means to be an “educreative” leader.She reflects on her journey from classroom math teacher to district coach, highlighting the role of mentorship in her career, and pays tribute to the mentors who shaped her outlook, especially her lasting relationship with Pamela Benford. The conversation dives deep into building strengths-based communities, navigating the changing landscape of public education, and ensuring digital equity for all students. Plus, Melissa shares practical stories about how Atlanta schools use tools like Prodigy and Minecraft to make math engaging and accessible for diverse learners.Key Moments04:17 Early-Stage Teacher Mentorship Success08:25 Superintendents Leaving Due to Politics10:52 "Scaling Mentorship in Schools"14:35 Prodigy Game Concerns Parent18:13 "Discovering Hidden Potential in Others"Why You’ll Love This Episode:Discover how she helped launch a districtwide Technology Innovation Competition and brought Grow with Google to not only students but also teachers, parents, and alumni across Atlanta Public Schools.Learn how Melissa champions Gallup Strengths coaching to build capacity, culture, and community helping teachers discover talents they didn’t even know they had.Be inspired by Melissa Dandy Walker’s journey from math teacher to digital learning specialist and how she brings creative spark and heartfelt mentorship to everything she touches.Gain insight into how game-based platforms like Prodigy are shifting math mindsets so much so that parents think their kids are just having fun (they are… and they’re also learning deeply).Connect with Dr. Melissa Dandy WalkerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-dandy-walker/ Website: https://www.atlantapublicschools.us/ Follow Us OnHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougrobertsiei/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-education-innovation/ Company Website: https://www.instituteforedinnovation.com/ Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to IEI for more powerful conversations on educational leadership, innovation, and the stories shaping our schools.