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Voices for ExcellenceAuthor: Dr. Michael T Conner
Welcome to Voices for Excellence, hosted by Dr. Michael Conners, where we explore the dynamic world of education, leadership, and innovation. This podcast offers in-depth conversations with thought leaders, educators, and industry experts, providing listeners with actionable insights and strategies to drive excellence in their fields. Season 3 continues our journey with a focus on cutting-edge topics like diversity in education, equality and inclusion, the impact of AI in the classroom, and transformative leadership strategies. Each episode is designed to inspire educators, leaders, and professionals committed to fostering positive change and achieving outstanding results. Across all seasons, Voices for Excellence delves into: Innovative educational practices and strategies Leadership development and personal growth Diversity and inclusion in the educational landscape The role of technology and AI in modern learning environments Join us for thought-provoking discussions and gain valuable perspectives on how to excel in todays rapidly evolving world. Whether youre an educator, a leader, or simply passionate about making a difference, this podcast provides the tools and inspiration you need to elevate your impact. Subscribe to Voices for Excellence and stay at the forefront of educational and leadership excellence! Language: en Genres: Education, Education for Kids, Kids & Family Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Breaking the Silos, Centering the Student — Dr. Jody Bloyer on Systemic Innovation
Episode 108
Monday, 22 December, 2025
What happens when a school district refuses to operate in silos—and instead imagines an ecosystem that truly wraps around every learner, every family, and every community member? In this inspiring episode of Voices for Excellence, Dr. Michael Conner sits down with visionary educator and community leader Jody Bloyer, Deputy Superintendent of Racine Unified School District in Wisconsin.A former teacher and principal, Jody brings a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and the power of collective care. Under her leadership, Racine has become a model for integrated, community-driven education systems. From launching community connector teams and restorative practices alongside law enforcement, to building pathways that connect classroom learning to real-world careers, Jody is designing a student experience rooted in relevance, belonging, and joy.Together, Dr. Conner and Jody explore what it means to lead with both urgency and grace in a rapidly evolving educational landscape—especially post-COVID, where Generation Alpha students are entering schools with radically different learner profiles, social-emotional needs, and expectations for how learning happens.You’ll learn: Bold strategies to shift from siloed services to layered systems of support Why social-emotional learning is academic learning—and must be treated as such What “safe in the try” means for creating cultures of experimentation and risk-taking in schools How to better align instruction to match Gen Z and Gen Alpha’s learner attributes The power of authentic community partnerships that hold students at the center Why 22nd-century education demands a redefinition of both success and school itself At the heart of this episode is a challenge to disrupt convention—while staying grounded in collective purpose. From grace and belief to commitment and joy, Jody reminds us what’s possible when educators truly embrace innovation as a communal act of love and progress.Subscribe and share to continue driving the future of education for all.
