The Boyz of Edtech

In this episode of the Boys of EdTech, the crew is joined by Dr. Barbara Mullen, Superintendent of Rush-Henrietta Central School District, and Dr. Brittany Miller, leader of the Center for Outcomes-Based Contracting. Together, they unpack what it really takes to align edtech innovation with student success.Dr. Mullen shares her district’s “big rocks,” including facilities modernization, student wellness, and improving math and writing outcomes—grounded in a long-term strategic vision. She emphasizes the importance of infrastructure, data maturity, and thoughtful change management in driving meaningful progress.Dr. Miller dives deep into outcomes-based contracting (OBC), explaining how districts and providers can move beyond transactional relationships toward true partnerships focused on measurable student outcomes. She highlights how aligning pricing, implementation, and accountability creates stronger, more sustainable impact.The conversation challenges both districts and edtech providers to raise expectations, define impact clearly, and embrace accountability. From the realities of scaling innovation to the importance of rigorous measurement and change management, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about improving education systems.Connect with the BoyzRick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/Matthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/Jacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/Ryan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/Jeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/Key Moments06:58 Updating facilities for innovation08:11 Upgrading facilities for climate readiness12:13 Focusing on student-centered outcomes14:33 Free open-source resources and research20:19 Future-focused partnerships and data insights21:56 Urgency in education strategy26:44 Embracing outcomes-based contracts in EdTech29:52 State investments in educational tech31:32 Importance of all-inclusive pricing35:07 Understanding competitive advantages in ed tech38:17 Defining impact and engagement metrics41:46 Discussing change management strategy45:29 Challenges with agreed outcomes in construction48:06 Challenges in implementing education assessments51:26 Hesitancy around student learning metricsConnect with GuestsDr. Brittany Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-miller-phd-290a13b3Dr. Barbara Mullen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-a-mullen-ph-d-91bb4116Interested in joining the show? Fill out the form: https://forms.gle/SRVhzpXikBombee38

In this episode of the Boys of EdTech, the crew unpacks what’s actually happening on the ground—from AI overload and vendor noise to what truly cuts through when selling to school districts.The group breaks down why AI isn’t the differentiator anymore, how districts are thinking about build vs. buy decisions, and what vendors are getting wrong in their outreach. From cold email strategies that actually work to the importance of relationship-building over transactions, this episode is packed with real, tactical advice for edtech founders, sales teams, and anyone trying to navigate the K-12 space.They also explore what meaningful relationships look like in practice, how to stand out in a crowded market, and why understanding district priorities (down to contracts and funding plans) can make or break your success. If you're in edtech, business development, or district leadership, this episode delivers unfiltered perspectives from operators who are in the trenches every day.Connect with the BoyzRick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/Matthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/Jacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/Ryan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/Jeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/Key Moments04:03 Reflecting on conference interactions07:54 Importance of Learning Efficacy Data10:07 Casual networking event insights15:56 Building authentic professional relationships20:07 Networking strategies at events22:20 Balancing work and family time25:16 Tailoring pitches for different personas30:45 Understanding school funding transparency33:20 Evaluating client relationships37:58 Choosing the right business partner41:28 Allocating education funding strategicallyInterested in joining the show? Fill out the form: https://forms.gle/SRVhzpXikBombee38

Join us for our inagruarl episode where the Boyz break down the ASU+GSV Summit, one of the most influential conferences in education technology in the world.The conversation covers everything from the wild networking opportunities and practical strategies for making the most of your conference experience, to the importance of genuine relationships and being intentional in connecting with leaders, founders, investors, and non-profits. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned pro, you’ll get actionable advice on how to navigate the overwhelming environment, maximize your ROI, avoid “party pipeline,” and focus on lasting connections.Tune in as the Boyz share their personal stories, pro tips, and what they're excited about for this year’s event, all while keeping it real, relatable, and fun. If you care about the future of edtech, building meaningful relationships, and learning from those who are shaping the space, this episode is for you.Connect with the BoyzRick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/Matthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/Jacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/Ryan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/Jeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/Key Moments00:00 Big education conference this weekend03:43 Networking at a unique conference08:01 ASU conference energy and connections10:49 Surviving long event days14:31 Prioritizing key meetings and goals17:21 Planning for conference success22:49 Building genuine, deeper connections26:01 Networking and event strategy30:09 Balancing a packed schedule31:04 Navigating events and networking37:14 Helping startups and sharing advice38:48 Connecting with AI and LinkedIn network42:34 Upcoming changes with ASU and BET45:34 Networking and career opportunities50:06 Attending conferences for career growthInterested in joining the show? Let us know: https://forms.gle/SRVhzpXikBombee38