GAEL UnscriptED

The fastest way to stall school improvement is to treat leadership like a set of tips you can download. Real change asks something harder: adults have to be willing to learn, unlearn, and look in the mirror. We sit down with Leslie Hazel Bussey (CEO and Executive Director of GLISI), Jennie Welch (Chief Strategy and Growth Officer), and Dr. Brian Keefer (Fulton County Schools) to talk about what leadership development looks like when it’s built for transformation and not compliance.We unpack how GLISI designs professional learning that actually sticks by creating psychological safety, building trust through community, and pushing teams to identify the true root of a problem of practice. Leslie and Jennie explain why defining a clear district leadership profile matters for culture, shared expectations, and retention. Brian shares what he saw as a principal and now as a central office leader, including why middle school leadership teams often get overlooked and how intentional team learning creates accountability that follows you back into the school year.We also zoom out to the outcomes everyone cares about: teacher retention, leader retention, and student success. Brian challenges the “high-achieving school” label by asking a sharper question: are kids doing great, not just scoring great? The conversation highlights practical ways districts can measure student experience through engagement, attendance, and culture while strengthening working conditions for educators. If you want smarter school leadership, stronger professional learning, and a repeatable process for change, hit play, then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review so more Georgia education leaders can find the show.

Turnover doesn’t just drain a district’s budget, it drains trust, momentum, and student support. We talk with Lisa Steele and Dr. Brian Keefer from Fulton County Schools about a different way to approach the problem: build a clear, incentive-based professional learning pathway that helps people see a future inside the organization.We walk through Level Up Fulton, a three-tier professional development model designed for every employee, from school leaders to classified staff. Level One anchors people in district values and shared language through tools like CliftonStrengths. Level Two gets role-specific with meaningful problems of practice and portfolio-based evidence so learning shows up in daily work. Level Three offers distinct paths that expand leadership capacity at scale, including executive coaching training, high-quality professional learning design, and leadership academy programs for aspiring principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, and non-instructional leaders.The results are the headline, but the design choices are the real lesson. We dig into how Fulton uses employee feedback to refine the program, why marketing matters for participation, and how “building the bench” reduces the need to recruit leaders from outside. We also share practical ideas smaller districts can use immediately by tapping internal experts and creating simple, structured growth paths.If you care about teacher retention, principal retention, leadership development, and professional learning that actually changes outcomes, this conversation offers a blueprint worth stealing. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review with the one retention challenge you want solved next.

The first year as a superintendent can feel like drinking from a firehose, and the pressure to prove yourself fast is real. We sit down with Dr. Robbie Hooker (Retired from Clarke County Schools) and Dr. Philip Brown (Jackson County Schools) to talk honestly about what makes that first year work: humility, visibility, and the kind of trust you can only earn over time.We unpack the transition from the principal seat to district leadership and the habits that help you learn a new community quickly. You’ll hear why a 90-day plan matters, how listening tours and town halls shape a credible vision, and why transparency with stakeholders builds resilience when decisions get hard. We also dig into practical “walk the halls” leadership, treating district office work as service, and how mentoring students keeps leaders connected to the mission.The conversation goes deeper into the biggest challenges facing public education leaders right now: emotional composure, political and cultural noise, enrollment shifts, and competition from homeschooling, private schools, and charter options. We talk about focusing on what improves student outcomes, using simple but powerful data points like literacy rates, buses on time, and lost instructional minutes, and treating the strategic plan as a living document that can change when the data demands it.If you’re a new superintendent, aspiring district leader, or a principal considering the jump, this one is built for you. Subscribe for more leadership conversations, share this with a colleague who needs it, and leave a review with the best first-year advice you’ve ever gotten.

You can feel it in every school building right now: the pace is relentless, the stakes are high, and even great people can slide into survival mode. We bring in Leslie Hazle Bussey and Jennie Welch from GLISI, the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement, to talk about a different path, one built on leadership development that changes culture, not just calendars.We dig into how GLISI partners with districts across Georgia, including strategic planning with the Georgia School Boards Association, and why their work is designed to be deeply place-based. We also get specific about professional learning: when an intact leadership team steps away from the daily fire drill for experiences like Base Camp and Leadership Summit, trust can form faster, thinking gets clearer, and leaders can start acting with intention. That off-site design is not fluff; it is a practical way to restore capacity and build shared language across a community ecosystem.Then we get to impact. GLISI shares outcomes tied to school improvement and student success, including partner graduation rates that average higher than the state, stronger intent-to-stay signals connected to teacher retention, and meaningful boosts in educator satisfaction. We also explore “Portrait Of A Graduate” work that uses creative student input and empathy interviews to reshape what learning can look like, making it more engaging, relevant, and workforce-aligned.If you care about education leadership, principal coaching, teacher retention, and sustainable school improvement, this one is for you. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review, then tell us: what is one leadership move that kept you in the work?

Leadership in public education can feel lonely until you find the right people in your corner. We’re joined by former GAEL executive director, Dr. Jimmy Stokes and GAEL COO, Dusty Smith for a fast-moving conversation on how Georgia’s education leaders build community, preserve the best traditions, and show up as advocates when public schools need a stronger voice. We trace GAEL’s roots back to 1974, the legacy of H. M. Fulbright, and why the summer conference at Jekyll Island still matters for new superintendents, principals, and district administrators. Then we spotlight the partners who quietly strengthen the work, including Bowen Grad and the University of West Georgia, and what it looks like to invest in leadership development that lasts beyond one job or one year. We also break down the awards and scholarships that carry GAEL’s values forward: the H. M. Fulbright Distinguished Service Award, the Eileen McGill Award, the Skip Yow Award, and the recognition that happens across affiliates. You’ll hear how the Gold Dome Group tracks Georgia education legislation during the session, why coordinated advocacy matters, and how new leaders can plug in quickly. If you care about public school advocacy, education policy, and becoming a more effective school leader, this one gives you both history and next steps. Subscribe for more GAEL conversations, share this with a colleague who’s new to leadership, and leave a review so more Georgia educators can find the show.

Students are already using AI for school, whether we approve it or not and that reality is forcing district leaders to make choices fast. We sit down with Erin Burchik of Trek AI and Brent Coleman of GET to get honest about what’s happening in classrooms, what’s going wrong with unapproved tools, and what “safe AI for schools” should actually mean when academic integrity is on the line. We dig into the accuracy problem that rarely makes it into the marketing. If an AI model can hallucinate, a confident answer can still be the wrong answer, and that is a deal breaker for learning. Erin and Brent explain how Trek AI is built around K-12 content and a Socratic tutoring approach that guides students step by step rather than becoming an answer machine, plus visibility features that let educators coach students early by reviewing logged chats. We also get practical about the upside for teachers and students: standards aligned support for Georgia classrooms, world language conversation practice, help for English language learners, math walkthroughs from a simple photo upload, and teacher tools that can reduce planning and grading time. The bigger takeaway is a framework for AI policy that feels like a learner permit: guardrails first, skills and judgment next, then broader independence. If you’re a superintendent, principal, instructional tech leader, or classroom teacher trying to balance innovation with trust, press play and take notes. Subscribe for more conversations like this, share the episode with your leadership team, and leave a review so more educators can find it.

Ever wonder what really drives a snow day decision? We pull back the curtain with Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young to map the real playbook behind closures and delays—from scanning multiple forecast models to walking buildings at dawn and keeping a community’s economy in mind. The stakes go far beyond “school’s out”: buses must start, roads must be safe end to end, power has to hold for heat and meals, and nearly half the staff may be commuting from other counties facing different conditions.We share how a focused inner circle—safety, transportation, facilities, communications, and the chief of staff—meets in tight, frequent check‑ins, translating shifting data into clear choices. Relationships power the process: utility providers offer restoration timelines, the hospital flags workforce pinch points, county leadership and the sheriff align messaging, and neighboring superintendents compare conditions so families don’t get mixed signals across district lines. Instead of chasing social media’s clock, we commit to accuracy, a predictable communication order, and transparent reasoning, so principals, the board, staff, and families all know what’s happening and why.The toughest call might surprise you: reopening. Conditions rarely improve evenly; shaded hills and back roads can lag days behind. We talk through how to return the safe majority while directly supporting families on inaccessible routes with targeted communication and online options. You’ll also hear how our team captured lessons from a first-year storm into a simple SOP and a short explainer video, turning chaos into a repeatable process. If you care about student safety, instructional time, and a community that can plan with confidence, this candid breakdown will change how you see the next forecast.If this was helpful, follow the show, share it with a friend who leads in schools or local government, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find it.

What does it take to lead 43 schools without losing the soul of each community? We brought in Superintendent Mitch Young of Forsyth County Schools to pull back the curtain on a playbook that trades micromanagement for trust, and slogans for a simple, living framework that people actually use.Mitch’s path from coach to teacher to principal to superintendent reveals a steady theme: leadership is coaching at scale. He explains how Forsyth’s leader profile—centered on relationships, effective communication with active listening, intentionality that avoids jumping to solutions, and growing leaders at every level—keeps the district coherent without stamping out local identity. We dig into why the principalship often feels like the “best job” in education, how to turn assistant principal tasks into real leadership reps, and why classified leaders in custodial, nutrition, transportation, and front offices are the hidden engines of culture.We also explore a counterintuitive hiring strategy: interview and develop principal candidates before roles open, then match strengths to schools for better fit and longer tenures. Mitch shares how the district resists top-down impulses by co-creating initiatives with school leaders, uses active listening to anticipate the consequences of decisions, and treats the tension between autonomy and brand as a healthy force that drives performance. The result is a district experience families recognize—clear expectations, consistent care, and leaders who multiply other leaders.If you’re building leadership capacity in any system—school, nonprofit, or business—you’ll leave with practical moves: define a few shared expectations, invest in every layer of staff, slow down to listen, and give real autonomy with clear checkpoints. Subscribe, share this episode with your team, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so we can keep elevating the conversation.

What happens when a trusted school partner meets a statewide youth movement with real pathways to growth? We sit down with Georgia 4-H leaders Melanie Biersmith and Mandy Marable, plus alumna Alyssa Haag, to trace how classroom access, summer camps, and student leadership create confident, capable young people across all 159 counties. From fifth-grade introductions to statewide conferences, we unpack the design behind 4-H: nurture sparks, connect youth with caring adults, and turn engagement into agency.You’ll hear how 4-H at the University of Georgia blends standards-aligned lessons with hands-on adventures, including the beloved Summer GAEL coastal program that gives families high-quality childcare and kids a living lab on Georgia’s shore. Alyssa’s journey—from freezing during an early speech to majoring in consumer economics at UGA—shows how judging teams, district project achievement, and camp counseling transform nerves into poise, and curiosity into a calling. We dig into agriculture as both Georgia’s number one industry and a powerful hook for life skills, demystifying careers from poultry science to environmental stewardship while shaping smarter consumers and advocates.Civic engagement runs through it all. Local service projects lead to teen leadership and a sea of green at the Capitol, where hundreds of 4-Hers learn how policy is made. We spotlight statewide camps and conferences that build independence, community, and direction, and we recognize the Georgia 4-H Foundation and honors like the Green Jacket and Friend of 4-H for sustaining excellence. Principals, parents, and district leaders will find practical ways to open the first door—say yes to your county 4-H agent and watch opportunities multiply.If this conversation sparks ideas for your school or family, share it with a colleague, subscribe for more stories that matter, and leave a quick review with your favorite 4-H memory or takeaway.

Georgia wants teaching to be a first‑choice career, not a fallback—and we brought in the right guide to show how. We sit down with Selena Blakenship, veteran teacher, beloved principal, district HR leader, and now the voice behind Teach in the Peach, the statewide effort to recruit, support, and celebrate Georgia’s educators. From simplifying certification to elevating classroom stories, Selena shares a clear plan to fill vacancies, strengthen schools, and keep great teachers in the profession.We dig into the tools candidates actually need: a one‑stop website that maps steps for high school students, career changers, and out‑of‑state teachers; direct links to district HR pages and open roles; and resources for educators looking to move within Georgia. We also explore solutions that change the math on staffing—registered teacher apprenticeships that let people earn while they learn, pre‑apprentice pathways in high schools, and grow‑your‑own pipelines that lift paraprofessionals into hard‑to‑staff classrooms. Along the way, Selena shows why retention is the new recruitment, with induction and mentoring programs that push early‑career retention toward 85–90 percent.What sets Georgia apart is not only competitive pay and a strong retirement system, but a decade of aligned support from RESAs, districts, universities, and state leaders. We talk about the new Teacher Ambassador pilot amplifying positive teacher voices, Future Georgia Educator Days that spark interest early, and Educator Signing Day that honors commitments to teach. We also highlight a simple but powerful CTA: nominate an educator on the Teaching the Peach site so the state can broadcast more of the everyday impact happening in classrooms.If you care about teacher recruitment, school culture, and building a durable pipeline, you’ll find practical steps and fresh energy here. Listen, share with your HR team or principal group, and help us spread the word. Subscribe for more conversations with Georgia’s education leaders, and leave a review with one idea you’re taking back to your district.

Leadership feels different when someone is asking the right questions instead of handing you quick fixes. We sit down with co-directors Kerensa Wing and Rickey Edmond to unpack how executive coaching is reshaping growth for Georgia’s school leaders—principals, assistant principals, district directors, and superintendents—through a safe, structured, and goal-driven process that outperforms traditional mentoring.From the ground up, this statewide effort was built on research, storyboarding, and relentless feedback. Kerensa and Rickey explain how an advisory board of RESA directors, superintendents, universities, and GAEL affiliates helped refine the model, and why partnerships with the Georgia Department of Education and regional networks unlocked trust and access. You’ll hear how they selected coaches with growth mindsets, trained them with Engage to Learn, and standardized practice using the GROW model and the Grow Lab platform—anchoring every session in clear goals, data, and progress.We take you inside the engine room: how districts self-selected, why confidentiality is non-negotiable, and what the matching process looks like when analytics and human judgment produce a 98% fit. The conversation moves from structure to impact—ten sessions a year, flexible formats, Georgia Leads-aligned rubrics—and the real-world outcomes when leaders own their development. Whether you’re building a pipeline from teacher leader to AP, stabilizing a school through turnover, or seeking a sounding board as a superintendent, this episode shows how coaching turns reflection into results.If you believe “so goes leadership, so goes the organization,” you’ll find a playbook here for sustainable improvement and courageous growth. Subscribe, share with a colleague who leads, and leave a review telling us the one question you wish someone would ask you right now.

What happens when a teacher treats a classroom like a launchpad? We sit down with Georgia’s Teacher of the Year to explore how agriculture education, FFA, and work-based learning give students real skills, real mentors, and real chances to lead. From the greenhouse to the state boardroom, this is a story about saying yes to hands-on learning and watching students grow into confident citizens.We trace her path from a farm upbringing and Wyoming ranch camp summers to a career that blends animal science, leadership, and entrepreneurship. She breaks down the ag education three-circle model—classroom instruction, FFA, and supervised agricultural experiences—and shows how each part feeds the others. You’ll hear how national FFA convention opens doors for 70,000 students, why a school livestock barn changes daily teaching, and how SAEs translate into paid work, portfolios, and national recognition.The highlight is a blueprint any school can adapt: a floral design program launched with $1,000 that now generates $60,000 through wreath classes, monthly subscriptions, weddings, and major events. Alongside that, a citywide service initiative sends hundreds of students to parks, nonprofits, and shelters in a single day, turning service hours into civic pride. We talk candidly about logistics, leadership that finds a way to say yes, and the moments when students transform their teacher—like the welder who found purpose in the shop and the alum who returned to design flowers during a family tragedy.We also pull back the curtain on her role with the State Board of Education, how funding and accountability connect, and why expanding CTAE and work-based learning drives equity across districts. Public education’s superpower is choice: AP, dual enrollment, IB, and technical pathways that help students discover what truly fits—and what doesn’t—before it costs time and tuition.If you care about career readiness, community partnerships, and programs that pay their own way, you’ll come away with practical ideas and fresh energy. Subscribe, share this episode with a colleague who dreams big for their students, and leave a review telling us the one hands-on project you’d launch first.

What if the same video that protects teachers also helps them teach better? We sit down with Kloud-12’s Brent Coleman and Kelly Martinez to unpack how classroom cameras and a modern intercom can turn daily practice into measurable growth while closing safety gaps that keep leaders up at night. Brent connects a decade in sports with a decade in schools to make a crisp point: film is how professionals improve. Kelly brings the classroom lens—how video reframed a student’s behavior and changed her support plan—showing why reflection beats guesswork.We get practical about adoption. Teachers set schedules, control recordings, and choose who can view—backed by transparent district policy that draws a hard line between coaching and evaluation. That clarity builds trust and speeds buy-in when paired with an easy workflow that drops videos straight into Google Drive or OneDrive. For leaders, the payoff lands on both pillars that matter most: safety and instruction. Real stories highlight the stakes, from resolving medical uncertainty during a seizure to disproving false accusations and streamlining discipline with facts instead of hearsay.Then we broaden the frame with Kloud-12’s More Voice Unity, an IP-based bells, paging, and intercom system built for K-12. Integrated with Syntegix, a crisis alert can surface the right classroom feed to responders and record office audio for post-event analysis, turning drills and incidents into data that improves the next response. We also explore scalable instructional wins: building libraries of best-practice lessons, supporting ESOL when staff are out, and sharing expertise across campuses. Because Kloud-12 designs and owns its hardware and software, districts get nimble updates, health checks that catch failures, and support led by former educators—plus a realistic timeline of roughly 90 days from purchase to live.If every coach uses film to win, schools can use it to learn. Subscribe, share with a colleague who cares about safety and PD, and leave a review telling us how your district would use classroom video to lift teaching and protect staff.

Ready to turn career choices into retirement confidence? We sat down with Georgia’s Teacher Retirement System leadership to decode the rules that matter most: how promotions interact with anti-spiking safeguards, why your highest 24 months drive your benefit, and when a June paycheck might outweigh an earlier COLA. We walk through clean, real-world scenarios so you can compare April 1, June 1, and July 1 retirements without guesswork—and understand the trade-offs.We also dive into the workforce challenge facing Georgia schools and the role TRS plays as both a recruitment magnet and a retention anchor. You’ll hear what an independent audit found about return-to-work programs, how new bills could expand opportunities without harming the fund, and what the average retiree’s path looks like before stepping back into the classroom. If you’ve wondered about the “25 years” headline, we set the record straight: eligibility to return is not a shortcut to full retirement.Two constants rise to the top: COLAs and security. Georgia’s long record of cost-of-living adjustments—prefunded through member contributions—helps retirees keep pace with inflation while driving billions into local economies. Just as important is protecting what you’ve earned. Only about half of members have current beneficiary information, and that gap has real consequences. We cover the quick fixes: log in annually, update beneficiaries, and turn on multi-factor authentication. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of leadership, community impact, and why professional networks like GAEL shape better decisions over an entire career.If this conversation helped you plan your next step, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review telling us the one question you still want answered. Your feedback shapes future episodes.

A bus route to the boardroom isn’t a cliché here—it’s the real path two former superintendents took before stepping into leadership at Georgia’s Teacher Retirement System. We open with their unexpected journeys, the mentors who nudged them forward, and the idea that leadership is transferable when anchored in service, data, and relationships. From there, we get practical: how culture, strategic planning, and succession design can transform a solid agency into a standout one with sub–5 percent turnover and a staff that sees its work as a mission.We also dig into what members care about most: access and security. You’ll hear the story behind TRS’s video counseling and the Macon office—human-centered changes that saved educators hours on the road and made retirement counseling more equitable statewide. Then we zoom out to the numbers: a roughly $125 billion fund, a funding ratio that ranks among the strongest, and a seasoned team managing most investments in-house. Governance matters too, from the investment committee’s discipline to joint management sessions that sharpen oversight.If you’re a teacher, principal, or district leader wondering when to engage with TRS, we map out a clear timeline: learn early, revisit mid-career, and sit for pre-retirement counseling within five years of your target date. And on the perennial question—retire at year 30, 33, or keep going to 40—we frame the tradeoffs with both math and meaning. Love the work and see rising impact? Staying can lift your final average salary and multiplier. Ready for a second act? Drawing your pension while launching a new career can be a powerful combination.Ready to plan smarter and lead with clarity? Follow the show, share this conversation with a colleague who’s weighing their next step, and leave a review with your top retirement question—we may feature it in a future episode.

Start the new year with a clean slate and a smarter plan for leading your school. We kick off season two by inviting members to share their best campus ideas on the show and by laying out concrete support you can plug in right away. From statewide cohorts to targeted coaching and a literacy series that finally gives writing the airtime it deserves, the focus is practical help that saves hours and moves student learning.We explain how our February needs assessment guides next year’s professional learning, then dig into two pillars: the Aspiring Principals Academy and the New Principal Institute. Splitting cohorts north and south opened access across the state, while new leaders in years one through four get a durable network plus face time with voices from the Department of Education, PSC, and GOSA. That mix of peer support and agency insight turns policy into practice and makes it easier to navigate certification, accountability, and reporting with confidence.Leadership coaching takes center stage next. Our one‑day training with three short follow‑ups walks you through a full coaching cycle focused on adult growth, not compliance. You’ll build listening and questioning skills, practice in a safe setting, and leave with tools you can use with APs, teacher leaders, and teams. We also share time management tactics principals can start tomorrow: time blocking for morning presence and classroom visits, reverse time blocking to reveal hidden patterns, and email sprints that stop constant inbox checking. Round it out with our spring literacy webinar series on writing, plus a weekly Capitol update that keeps you ready to advocate on funding and policy.Ready to lead with more clarity and less chaos? Subscribe for season two, share this episode with a colleague who needs these tools, and leave a quick review so more school leaders can find us.

Ready for a clear look at what leaders need next? We close the fall season with Cindy Flesher and a practical preview of Winter GAEL, our three-day gathering in Athens that puts member voice at the center. From the first survey response to the final agenda, every session is built to solve problems you face right now—recruiting talent, leading change, raising student outcomes, and reclaiming time.We dig into four focused strands that make the conference easy to navigate and hard to forget. Building the bench shares how districts grow great educators and future leaders with real systems, not slogans. Leading forward highlights innovation, agility, and strategic change, with examples you can adapt. Driving student outcomes brings proven leadership moves you can use on Monday. Reclaiming time explores practical tools, including AI, to reduce friction and keep attention on what matters most. You’ll also hear why we expanded breakouts in response to your feedback, how we selected 39 sessions from a record 88 proposals, and what materials will be available afterward.Keynotes bring depth and humanity. Kaitlin Roig-DeBellis focuses on resilience and moving forward after crisis. Joe Sanfelippo, former national superintendent of the year, shares how to champion people and culture. Brandon Fleming, author of Miseducated and a Harvard debate coach, offers a powerful story of second chances and high expectations. We also preview live Q&A opportunities with the presenters from our popular finance webinar series, plus anticipated updates from state leaders and the Department of Education.If you’re new, we’ve got your back. We talk through how to make the most of affiliate meetings, hallway conversations, and the Sunday reception to build a network that actually helps when the job gets tough. Registration is open, and hotel rooms at the Hyatt and the new Marriott near the Classic Center go fast—book early to stay close. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs this community, and leave a quick review to help more Georgia leaders find us.

If leadership is a muscle, this conversation is the workout plan. We sit down with the team from UGA’s Fanning Institute to unpack Youth Lead Georgia—a statewide program that starts with a three‑day kickoff in Athens and expands into a year of hands‑on learning, industry immersion, and post‑secondary exploration. From team building and self‑awareness to a multi‑day bus tour across Georgia, we trace how students grow from curious participants into confident contributors who can read a room, read a community, and take action.What makes this model stand out is its intentional mix of access and relevance. Selection hinges on short‑answer reflections, not GPAs, opening the door to students with emerging potential. Each session pairs leadership skills with local context: visits to technical colleges and universities, insights from the military, and on‑site industry experiences that reveal the jobs powering Georgia’s economy. The Phoenix Air visit in Cartersville—a company that transported Ebola patients and handled a high‑profile repatriation—shows students that global impact can start right here at home.We also get practical. Hear how Oconee County High School tailored modules, shifted to student‑led group interviews, and balanced grade levels to keep momentum strong. Learn how districts around the state adapt schedules to avoid class conflicts, run leadership councils that span middle and high school, and even introduce K‑5 students to age‑appropriate leadership. The Youth Lead Georgia Summit takes it further by inviting representation from all 159 counties, elevating youth voices on the issues they face today and turning those insights into direction for schools and communities.Ready to bring this to your campus or district? Connect with UGA Fanning on LinkedIn and social at @UGAFanning, and reach out to Lauren and Jason via the UGA Fanning website to set up a Zoom. If this conversation sparked ideas, subscribe, share it with a colleague, and leave a review so more educators and community leaders can find it.

Want proof that high school leadership doesn’t have to be performative or reserved for a select few? We sit down with the team at UGA’s JW Fanning Institute for Leadership Development to unpack a model that helps teens lead right now—no jargon, no fluff, just practical skills and real opportunities. From the pressures students feel about college and careers to the confidence they gain through strengths-based coaching, we trace how a research-backed framework turns anxiety into agency.We walk through Youth Lead Georgia, a competitive, zero-cost statewide cohort fueled by philanthropic support, complete with four immersive retreats and a summer bus tour. You’ll hear how the companion summer summit widens access, inviting at least one student from every Georgia county to explore leadership, college pathways, technical education, the military, and the workforce—without prescribing a single “right” future. Then we dive into the school-based Youth Leadership in Action curriculum, a flexible K–12 program that moves students through mastery of self, mastery of relationships, and mastery of action. Think community mapping, conflict skills, and team problem-solving that culminate in student-led projects with measurable impact.Oconee County High School joins to share how they customized the modules, shifted to peer-led applications and interviews, and saw students ask for encore sessions to push their legacy work further. The thread through it all is facilitation that centers student voice: educators can bring Fanning in to lead, or get trained to run the program themselves. If you care about student belonging, behavior, and achievement—and you want a blueprint that works in both rural and metro districts—this conversation is your roadmap.Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more Georgia schools discover pathways that turn student pressure into purpose.

Think a teacher salary can’t build real wealth? We invite Danny Kafke back to show how educators can pair the Georgia TRS pension with smart, low-fee savings and the right insurance to create stability that rivals seven-figure portfolios. We start with the simple math of the pension—2% per service year—then connect it to a practical plan that protects your family, fights inertia, and keeps more of every dollar you invest.Danny explains why protection comes first. Life insurance and long-term disability aren’t just line items; they’re the shield that keeps a lifetime of saving from unraveling after one bad break. From there, we dig into catch-up strategies for mid-career teachers who finally have room to save: how much to contribute, where to trim, and how to let automation do the heavy lifting. We tackle the myth that higher income fixes everything, and show how overspending can sink doctors and superstars just as easily as it derails teachers.The conversation turns to the Southern Education Retirement Consortium (SERC) and its impact on districts—especially smaller ones. By consolidating into a single-vendor model with transparent oversight, SERC slashes plan fees that quietly erode balances. The result: tens of thousands saved per educator over time, higher participation via auto-enrollment, and more money staying in local communities to build generational wealth. Danny’s personal story anchors it all, reminding us that the greatest return on money is freedom to be present for the people we love.If you’re a superintendent, HR leader, or educator looking for clarity, this one’s a roadmap: pensions, protection, automation, and lower fees. Subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review with one question you want answered about your retirement plan—what should we dig into next?

What if a 42K salary could still build a rich, secure life? We sit down with longtime educator and author Danny Kofke to map out the practical money moves that help teachers thrive today and retire strong tomorrow. Danny’s story starts in the classroom—first grade, kindergarten, and a decade in severe and profound special education—and turns into a blueprint for living below your means, creating financial margin, and seizing opportunities that change your future.We break down compound interest in plain English using the Rule of 72, then show exactly how small, automatic contributions to a 403(b) or 457(b) can grow into six figures. You’ll hear why a teacher pension can mirror the income of a million‑dollar portfolio, how matches are real “free money,” and what changes when a district doesn’t pay into Social Security. For new teachers, we offer a simple on‑ramp: start with a percentage, set it to auto-increase, and let raises boost your savings without extra effort. For mid‑career educators feeling behind, we outline a realistic reset with budgets that actually stick and a clear plan to kill debt.Debt gets a hard look: the true cost of minimum payments, why credit card rewards are a distraction, and how to choose between the debt avalanche and snowball. We also draw the line between short‑term and long‑term savings so emergencies don’t derail retirement. Finally, we make the case for districts to teach financial literacy to staff—an overlooked but powerful recruitment and retention tool that helps educators make better decisions with pensions, matches, and benefits.If you’re ready to turn money stress into a steady plan, this conversation gives you the steps, the math, and the mindset. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who needs a win, and leave a review with the money question you want us to tackle next.

A deepfake with a boss’s voice. A viral post that turns a school into a headline. A teacher’s split-second decision in a chaotic classroom. We dive into the real frontiers of K-12 HR and the practical systems that keep leaders steady when everything moves fast.Stephanie Dobbins (Executive Director, GASPA) and Tyler Gwyn (Executive Director of HR, Cherokee County Schools; GASPA president-elect) open the playbook on modern school HR: ethical guidance for AI, investigation readiness for synthetic media, and smart social media response when community emotions run high. We talk through the power of the GASPA network—conferences, the Gaggle forum, and monthly webinars—where HR pros swap vetted handbooks, sample letters, policy templates, and real-world advice that saves time and reduces risk.We also tackle employee well-being with a focus on access and prevention: state health benefits, EAP programs, and how districts are normalizing mental health support. On recruitment and retention, Tyler shares a sharper strategy than perks alone: analyze behavior trends post-COVID, retrain on the code of ethics, and design immediate supports that help teachers de-escalate and avoid career-ending mistakes. It’s a candid look at how data, community, and preparedness create stability for students and staff.If you lead people in schools—HR, principals, superintendents, finance, or curriculum—this conversation offers concrete steps, credible resources, and direct access points to PSC, DOE, and TRS guidance. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs stronger HR support, and leave a review with one question you want us to tackle next.

What if professional learning actually counted twice—toward your graduate degree and your district’s biggest challenges? We sit down with Dr. Mike Dishman, dean at the University of West Georgia, to unpack a practical blueprint for educator growth, retention, and real results. From SummerGale’s community heartbeat to the nuts and bolts of a redesigned doctorate, this conversation focuses on what moves the needle for Georgia’s schools.Dr. Dishman explains why West Georgia now treats the EDS as the first half of a doctorate, cutting needless hours and cost, and how a professional capstone replaces the traditional dissertation with a thousand-hour, team-based project that tackles problems of practice. Think VR efficacy studies, policy-aligned analysis, and solutions districts can deploy immediately. It’s rigor with relevance—grounded in data and built for working educators.We also dive into Georgia’s Best—Building Educator Success Together—a partnership model born after the state’s burnout report. Here’s the math districts can’t ignore: replacing a single teacher costs $14,000 to $28,000. Redirecting that spend can fund 2–4 graduate degrees, lock in top talent for five years, and align learning to high-need areas like special education and instructional technology. Programs run in cohorts, use local policy and data, and are often taught by the district’s own top practitioners, so coursework doubles as targeted professional development.Along the way, we talk culture—why Family Fun Night matters to educator families—and the deeper loyalty that comes from being seen and invested in. Big district or small, urban or rural, the model scales because it starts with listening: define workforce needs, credit prior learning, and design programs that fit the work. If you care about educator retention, practical leadership development, and degrees without debt bloat, you’ll find a roadmap here.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review to help more educators and leaders find it.

What if one well-intended schedule change quietly cut thousands from your special education funding? We sit down with G CASE leaders Mary Kay Berry and Demita James to unpack the real-world moves that keep students supported, teams aligned, and districts out of trouble. From the fall Savannah gathering focused on the balance between instruction and compliance to the spring legal summit in Athens, we break down how timely professional learning translates into better IEPs, stronger classrooms, and fewer legal landmines.We go deep on leadership development with the Aspiring Directors Academy and state-supported new director learning, showing how pipeline planning protects services and prevents costly gaps when key people move on. Inside the IEP room, tone and structure matter: welcoming families, avoiding jargon, arranging the space for collaboration, and ensuring the LEA knows how to commit funds and uphold services. You’ll hear the phrases to avoid (“We don’t do that here”) and the practices that build trust without overpromising.The master schedule takes center stage as the quiet driver of equity and budgets. Scheduling special education first safeguards FTE funding, ensures certified staffing for the right service models, and avoids unintended consequences of block schedules. We also tackle the realities of teacher shortages and alternative routes, making the case for pairing targeted PD with coaching so new educators can deliver grade-level access, not just remediation. Inclusion is the norm now—students with disabilities are in AP, CTAE, fine arts, and core classes—so every teacher needs strategies, and every leader carries special education responsibility.If you’re a principal, AP, director, or district leader, this conversation gives you a checklist to strengthen IEP meetings, protect funds, and elevate instruction across the board. Subscribe, share with your team, and leave a review with one change you’ll make before your next IEP meeting.

What actually changes a school—policies on paper or people in the building? We sit down with Jay Floyd to map the moments that matter, from his first days as a biology teacher and coach to leading large high schools and a district. Jay is candid about the hard parts of leadership, the joy of seeing students thrive, and the simple rule that guides his decisions: love students enough to set clear standards and follow through.We explore the high-velocity world of the assistant principal, where relationships are everything and consistency earns trust. Jay shares how the principal’s chair shifts the view: every decision, big or small, rolls uphill. He lays out a practical playbook—hire 100 percent better each cycle, treat discipline as caring structure, and build teams that outlast any one leader. His approach to instructional growth is hands-on and respectful: classroom cameras owned by teachers, district-level academic coaches with real authority, and a culture where colleagues swap videos and feedback because teaching is a craft.When Jay returns home as superintendent, strategy becomes system. With a unified board and a clear plan, he anchors a College and Career Academy on the high school campus and ties attendance and graduation to purpose. Students plug into pathways and organizations that give them a reason to show up, from game design to industry certifications, and results follow—higher engagement, stronger scores, and a community that feels the impact. Threading through every chapter is a question printed on a t-shirt and embedded in the culture: Do you love them enough?If you lead a classroom, a school, or a district, this conversation offers a grounded, repeatable blueprint. Subscribe, share with a colleague who’s stepping into a new role, and leave a review to help more educators find these tools and stories.

The most effective help often comes from people who know your world firsthand. Craig Harper, executive director of the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE), joins us to share how a Georgia-grown, educator-led association supports 91,000+ members with advocacy, coaching, grants, and professional learning—while keeping dues low and dollars local. From the earliest days in 1975 to a milestone 50th anniversary, PAGE’s story is about choice, stability, and staying power for educators who want practical support and a strong voice at the Capitol.We dig into the origin of PAGE as an independent alternative focused on Georgia’s classrooms, and how that choice still pays off: a visible presence at State Board and agency meetings, a respected daily Capitol report used statewide, and a legislative team that testifies with data and member input. Craig highlights how surveys, focus groups, and on-the-ground listening shape policy positions on compensation, benefits, safety and security, and workload. Beyond advocacy, PAGE invests directly in people: $100K in classroom grants, $30K in scholarships for para-pros, aspiring teachers, and advanced degrees, and the annual STAR program celebrating top seniors and the educators who shaped them.One of the most powerful tools we discuss is PAGE Coaching—confidential, one-on-one support for relational and cultural challenges that might otherwise drive good educators from the field. Hundreds have already used coaching to navigate conflict, clarify expectations, and choose to stay. We also talk about statewide representation on PAGE’s board, collaboration with GAEL, GSBA, and GSSA, and why membership is a smart move for teachers and leaders alike. If you care about teacher retention, burnout solutions, school safety, and meaningful education policy in Georgia, this conversation offers clear takeaways and practical next steps.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review telling us which PAGE service you found most valuable. Your feedback helps more Georgia educators find the support they deserve.

The hardest part of school leadership isn’t the schedule or the spreadsheets—it’s standing in front of people you care about and making calls that keep kids first, even when you don’t have every answer. We sit down with two seasoned leaders—one who rose from kindergarten teacher to deputy superintendent, another who went from coaching girls’ basketball (and Friday nights under the lights) to guiding an over-capacity high school—to talk about the moves that matter and the missteps that taught them more.We dig into the art of “I don’t know, yet.” Not the bluff, but the confident pause that buys time to get it right. You’ll hear how publicly owning a failed initiative strengthened faculty trust, why aligning with district vision is non-negotiable, and how to message mandates without losing credibility. We also explore the benefits and pitfalls of leading in the same building where you taught—where trust comes preloaded but accountability cuts closer—and the unglamorous skill of having hard conversations with people you like.Along the way, we tackle gender, presence, and confidence, with candid stories about being the only woman in the room and the family wisdom that steadied shaky hands at graduation. We spotlight the role of professional networks and mentorship—associations, peer circles, and sharp colleagues who turn isolation into insight—and we end with actionable advice for emerging women leaders: keep learning, stay off the social media minefield, pick a mantra that filters every decision, and protect your life outside of school so you can lead well inside it.Subscribe for more candid leadership stories, share this with a colleague who needs a lift, and leave a review with the mantra that guides your toughest decisions. Your voice helps other leaders find the support they need.

Attorney Cory Kirby pulls back the curtain on the most pressing legal challenges facing Georgia's schools today in this engaging and informative conversation. With 25 years of experience representing school districts, Kirby shares why the upcoming Fall Legal Issues Conference (October 29-31 in Athens) is essential for district leadership teams.The landscape of school law is shifting dramatically. House Bill 268 brings what Kirby describes as "massive changes" to enrollment procedures, withdrawal processes, safety protocols, and SRO requirements—changes that every district must understand to ensure compliance. Beyond legislation, the conference addresses emerging court decisions that impact special education, evolving disciplinary trends, and human resources considerations, including First Amendment issues, Title IX regulations, and policies related to transgender students.Perhaps most alarming is Kirby's revelation about disciplinary issues creeping into younger grades. "We're now getting down to elementary and primary," he explains, sharing a shocking recent case involving a six-year-old bringing a firearm to school. These evolving challenges require new approaches and a deeper understanding of the law from administrators at all levels.The conference strategically focuses on student services, special education law, and human resources—the three areas most impacted by new legislation and legal precedents. With both in-person and virtual attendance options, districts can ensure their key personnel access this vital information. However, Kirby emphasizes the value of attending in person, where participants can network with colleagues and consult directly with attorneys between sessions.Whether you're a superintendent, building-level administrator, or district specialist in student services, special education, or human resources, this professional learning opportunity provides essential knowledge to navigate today's complex educational environment. Register now through the GAEL website to ensure your district is represented!

The landscape of school safety has transformed dramatically in recent years, with technology now playing a pivotal role in protecting our most vulnerable populations. In this powerful episode of GAEL UnscriptED, host Ben Wiggins sits down with Mary Ford and Jay Floyd from CENTEGIX to explore how their innovative CrisisAlert™ system is revolutionizing emergency response in Georgia’s schools.The conversation opens with a discussion of Alyssa’s Law—named after Parkland victim Alyssa Alhadeff—which requires schools to implement panic alert systems that provide instant notification and precise location details to first responders. For the 90% of Georgia’s public K-12 schools already using CENTEGIX, compliance with this legislation comes built-in.But this episode goes far beyond active shooter scenarios. Ford and Floyd share compelling real-world stories of medical emergencies where CENTEGIX technology may have saved lives—from custodians experiencing seizures in storage closets to teachers having health episodes in parking lots. Last year alone, CENTEGIX recorded over 265,000 alerts, with more than 60% occurring outside the classroom, underscoring the importance of full campus coverage.Listeners will also gain practical, actionable advice. The discussion covers Blueprint Mapping technology that gives first responders interactive facility maps, best practices for staff training, and tips for keeping systems regularly tested and up to date. Ford and Floyd emphasize the importance of training frequency, designating mapping administrators, and communicating safety measures to the community—providing school leaders with a clear roadmap to maximize their safety infrastructure.Whether you are a superintendent, principal, safety director, or educator, this episode offers crucial insights and inspiration. As Jay Floyd asks, “Do you love them enough to do whatever it takes to make sure everybody’s safe?” For Georgia schools partnering with CENTEGIX, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

What does it take to build a world-class human resources department that truly supports educators and school leaders? In this illuminating conversation, Monica Batiste draws from her remarkable 32-year journey through education to reveal the inner workings of HR leadership at Georgia's largest school district.Monica's path from classroom teacher to principal to Associate Superintendent of Human Resources at Gwinnett County Public Schools provides a unique perspective on developing educational talent from multiple angles. She shares how Gwinnett transformed its approach from basic personnel management to comprehensive talent development, creating leadership pipelines that cultivated future principals and district leaders from within.The conversation delves into practical strategies that made Gwinnett's HR department so effective—from creating clear timelines for documentation to establishing separate teams for internal investigations versus professional growth. Monica explains how recruitment needs have evolved as younger generations of teachers prioritize different benefits than their predecessors, requiring new approaches to attract and retain talent.Perhaps most valuable are Monica's candid insights about relationship-building between school leaders and HR professionals. She emphasizes that new principals should connect with HR early and often, viewing them as strategic partners rather than just compliance officers. For those entering HR roles, she stresses the importance of professional networks and learning from experienced colleagues across districts.Whether you're a principal navigating employee documentation challenges, an HR professional developing district-wide systems, or a superintendent building your leadership team, this episode offers practical wisdom from someone who has mastered the delicate balance between supporting schools and maintaining organizational excellence. Connect with Monica's journey and discover how human-centered HR practices can transform educational leadership.

Dr. Jolie Hardin takes us deep into the hidden rhythms of the school year that every educational leader should understand but few ever discuss. Drawing from her 11 years as a principal and extensive work in district leadership, Dr. Hardin unveils the six emotional phases teachers experience throughout the academic year - and why misalignment between administrative timing and teacher needs drives talented educators away.The conversation centers on a powerful revelation: leaders often pile on new initiatives, observations, and meetings during October through December, precisely when teachers hit their emotional low point in what researchers call the "disillusionment phase." This misalignment creates unnecessary stress that contributes directly to teacher burnout and turnover. As Dr. Hardin explains, "They almost want to give up. They don't want to collaborate anymore, they don't even want to get out of their cars."Beyond identifying the problem, Dr. Hardin offers concrete solutions through structured teacher check-ins with questions designed to uncover specific support needs - physical, institutional, emotional, or instructional. Her approach helps leaders document their support efforts while genuinely addressing teacher concerns. One particularly revealing question she recommends: "What would you use three extra hours in the day for?" which reveals what teachers feel they're neglecting.The discussion challenges school leaders to examine their timing through a new lens, reconsidering everything from when they schedule observations to when they administer climate surveys. Through practical examples and research-backed strategies, Dr. Hardin provides a roadmap for leaders who genuinely want to improve teacher retention by supporting staff during their most vulnerable phases.For new and veteran administrators alike, this conversation offers a rare chance to see the school year through teachers' eyes - and make the timing adjustments that could transform school culture and keep your best educators where they belong: in the classroom, feeling supported and valued.Dr. Jolie Hardin is the Co-Executive Director of GAESP. She can be reached via email at [email protected]. 

What does it really take to lead a school district? Two accomplished Georgia superintendents pull back the curtain on their leadership journeys in this illuminating conversation.Dr. Robbie Hooker (Clark County Schools) and Philip Brown (Jackson County Schools) trace their paths from classroom teachers to district leaders, sharing candid stories about the pivotal moments that shaped their careers. Dr. Hooker reveals how he transformed from psychology student to kindergarten teacher before becoming an award-winning high school principal. Brown discusses being appointed principal at just 28 years old and receiving the humbling advice that would guide his leadership philosophy: "You'll succeed because you have no idea what you're doing—so you'll listen."Both superintendents agree that the high school principalship, though extraordinarily demanding, represented the most rewarding period in their careers. They describe the delicate balance of empowering students and teachers while maintaining high expectations for all learners regardless of background or circumstances.The conversation explores critical leadership principles that transcend position titles. "Every day is a job interview," Brown emphasizes, highlighting how reputation becomes currency in educational leadership. Dr. Hooker stresses that effective leaders must be "confident but humble," capable of building trust through genuine relationships. Both superintendents underscore the importance of finding the right community fit when pursuing leadership positions—researching thoroughly rather than chasing titles.For current and aspiring educational leaders, this conversation offers invaluable wisdom about navigating career transitions, building effective teams, and creating learning environments where every student can thrive. As Dr. Hooker beautifully frames it, true leadership success comes from developing "disciples of your legacy" who continue advancing educational excellence long after your tenure ends.

Ever wondered what it really takes to pursue a doctoral degree while leading a school or district? Three dynamic educational leaders from across Georgia pull back the curtain on their journeys through UGA Mary Frances Early College of Education's Educational Leadership doctoral program in this candid conversation filled with practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement.Dr. John Paul Hearn (Superintendent, Jenkins County), Amanda Cavin (Principal, Peachtree City Elementary), and Dr. Markita Spikes (Interim Executive Director, Gwinnett County Public Schools) represent diverse educational contexts—from rural to suburban to the state's largest district. Yet their shared experiences reveal universal truths about leadership growth and professional development that transcend district boundaries.The conversation tackles head-on the concerns that keep many educators from pursuing advanced degrees: balancing demanding careers with rigorous academic work, family responsibilities, and lengthy commutes. As Dr. Hearn notes while reflecting on his experience, "It's the best thing I ever did for me as a professional." Dr. Spikes shares how her eighth-grade son provided critical motivation during a challenging moment: "Mom, there is no quit in this family."What emerges is a compelling portrait of how UGA's program transforms educational leaders through practical, applicable research directly connected to their daily work. The cohort model creates powerful professional networks that continue years after graduation, with graduates regularly sharing resources, answering questions, and supporting each other through career transitions. For educators contemplating their next professional step, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical guidance. As all three leaders emphasize their passion for public education and the transformative impact of doctoral studies, they leave listeners with one clear message: "Don't be timid about applying. Just hit submit."Subscribe to GAEL UnscriptED for more conversations that elevate education leadership and drive meaningful impact across Georgia's schools and communities.

The social media revolution happening at Valdosta City Schools has everyone talking—even education leaders 200 miles away. What started as a creative approach to combat the "summer slide" has transformed into a community movement that's doubled their social media following and changed public perception of the district.Communications Director Jennifer Steedley and specialist Candacey Griffin have pioneered a fresh approach to school communications that goes far beyond standard announcements. Their videos—featuring administrators sprinting across campuses in full suits, flying planes, and even rapping about reading—blend entertainment with purposeful educational messaging that resonates across generations."Every single video has a message," explains Steedley. "It's not just fun shooting videos to get your attention. While we have you, let us tell you a quick message about how important education is." This strategy reflects Superintendent Dr. Craig Lockhart's leadership philosophy: identify people's talents and empower them to shine.The results speak volumes. Their Facebook following has nearly doubled to almost 30,000 in just one year. Local businesses eagerly collaborate on content, staff members line up to participate in videos, and community members recognize district leaders from their digital presence. Most importantly, these efforts support core district priorities like literacy improvement and attendance, while celebrating their partnerships with community organizations like Moody Air Force Base.Behind each seemingly simple video lies hours—sometimes days—of planning, filming, and editing. The team considers different platforms and audiences, crafting content that resonates with students on Instagram while engaging parents and community members on Facebook. Their approach demonstrates how authentic storytelling can transform educational communication.Want to see how creative communications can energize your school community? Follow Valdosta City Schools on social media and witness firsthand how digital storytelling is building pride, engagement, and educational success in South Georgia.

Kevin Gaines didn't just return to his alma mater – he transformed it. As principal of Hart County High School for the past 13 years, Gaines has cultivated a remarkable legacy of leadership that balances consistency, innovation, and a deeply personal approach to education.When Gaines stepped into his role in October 2012, he faced a school with revolving-door leadership and a graduation rate hovering around 74%. Rather than making sweeping changes, he took time to listen – to faculty (including eight teachers who had once taught him), to students, and to community members. This deliberate approach paid dividends. Today, Hart County High School boasts a 98% graduation rate and has become a model for connecting education with workforce development.The College and Career Academy stands as perhaps Gaines' most significant achievement. Through strategic partnerships with local industries like Herring, a German automotive parts manufacturer, students gain real-world experience while still in high school. Some even travel internationally as part of their educational journey, creating opportunities that were unimaginable before Gaines' tenure. "Being able to bridge that gap between the school and industries," Gaines explains, "is our job to produce opportunities for students to succeed."What truly distinguishes Gaines as a leader is his approach to building school culture. His unique half-day interview process – where candidates visit classrooms, meet department members, and receive student-led tours – ensures new hires align with his vision of school as family. "You spend a lot of time with the people you work with," he notes, emphasizing the importance of finding staff who contribute positively to the school community.Despite the all-consuming nature of high school leadership, Gaines prioritizes work-life balance. Drawing from his own experience, he advises young administrators never to miss their children's activities for school duties. This philosophy of integration rather than separation has allowed him to sustain his passion for a job that he admits "would be the worst job ever" if he didn't love it.Want to hear more leadership insights from top education professionals? Subscribe to GAEL UnscriptED wherever you get your podcasts and join the conversation about what makes great school leadership.

GAEL Unscripted debuts with an inside look at the Summer GAEL Conference, where over 1,400 education leaders gathered to strengthen Georgia's schools through professional learning, networking, and family engagement opportunities. Ben Wiggins is joined by Dusty Smith, GAEL COO, and Ivy Young, GAEL Member & Sponsor Engagement Coordinator, to reflect on the summer conference and celebrate what is to come!What makes this conference unique? The perfect blend of professional development and family time. While educational leaders engage in packed breakout sessions and meaningful conversations with state policymakers (including the Governor and education committee chairs), their families enjoy specially designed activities. From the 4-H-sponsored Oceans of Fun program for children to evening events like waterpark night, dueling pianos, and spectacular fireworks, the conference creates meaningful connections between educational families across the state.Behind these enriching experiences stands an impressive network of educational partners. With 129 vendors participating this year, these partnerships make it possible to maintain affordable registration costs despite rising expenses. Vendors consistently praise GAEL members for their genuine engagement, creating relationships that strengthen Georgia's educational ecosystem.Beyond the annual gathering, GAEL has expanded professional learning opportunities to address critical leadership shortages. The data is clear - districts with higher Gale membership show stronger performance metrics. Through initiatives like the Aspiring Principals Academy, New Principal Institute, and affiliate-led professional development, GAEL is building leadership capacity throughout Georgia.This podcast represents GAEL's latest innovation in professional learning. Each week, we'll bring you 20-30 minutes of practical wisdom, relevant takeaways, and fun stories. Whether you're a seasoned superintendent or aspiring administrator, these conversations will provide actionable insights to strengthen your leadership. Subscribe today and join us every Monday for a new episode of GAEL Unscripted!