MASSP Podcast

In this episode, students take the lead in an honest conversation about how AI is actually being used in schools today—from tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to real classroom expectations that range from full bans to thoughtful integration. Students share how they use AI for everything from emails and test prep to college applications and creative projects, while also unpacking the tension between "getting work done" and truly learning. The discussion surfaces both the promise and the challenges of AI in education, ultimately offering a clear message for educators: student voice matters, guidance matters, and AI—when used intentionally—can be a powerful tool for personalization, feedback, and deeper learning rather than a shortcut to avoid it.

As the fall season wraps up and winter sports begin, MHSAA Executive Director Mark Uyl joins us to share updates from across Michigan athletics. We discuss the organized chaos of overlapping seasons, what's new for winter competition, and continued efforts to improve sportsmanship for players, coaches, and fans alike. Mark also reflects on participation trends, including post-pandemic recovery and the role school leaders play in shaping a positive athletic experience for all students.

In this episode, Monte Kelly, Principal of Fruitport Middle School, explores Covey's 4 Cores of Credibility—integrity, intent, capabilities, and results—and how they shape leadership in schools. Monte shares stories of building consistency between words and actions, aligning intent with transparency, and developing the capacity of staff to lead with confidence. He highlights the importance of results, not only as evidence of credibility but as the fuel that sustains trust with students, parents, and communities. His reflections bring Covey's framework to life, showing that credibility is the foundation for trust at every level of school leadership.

In this episode, Christian Manley, Principal of the Battle Creek STEM Innovation Center, helps us dive into Covey's reminder that "you can do something about this." Trust isn't out of our control—it begins with self-trust rooted in both character and competence. Christian shares her journey as a teacher and leader, offering powerful examples of stewardship, empowerment, and creating a culture where teachers feel trusted to lead learning. She reflects on how high-trust leadership reduces costs, speeds up progress, and frees principals from micromanaging while building ownership among staff. Her stories bring Covey's principle to life, showing that trust is not just a value but a skill leaders can model and grow in themselves and others.

In this episode, we sit down with Larry Wyn from CS for Michigan to break down the key requirements of House Bill 5649, discuss staffing and training solutions, explore budget-friendly curriculum options, and highlight best practices. If you're an administrator looking for practical steps to ensure compliance and create meaningful computer science opportunities for students, this conversation is a must-listen!

This episode of The MASSP Podcast features a conversation with Aaron Baughman, formerly of Northville Schools and now with Michigan Virtual, on the impact of AI in education. The discussion covers Northville's success in AI integration, common challenges schools face, and standout districts leading the way. Aaron also shares key mistakes to avoid, best practices for getting started, and insights on the future of AI in Michigan schools.

In this episode, MHSAA Executive Director, Mark Uyl, returns again to discuss athletic season updates, the MHSAA 100-year celebration, participation rate increases and more.

In this episode, we focus on ways to build culture and rapport with staff and students. Todd Simmons, Cedar Springs HS Principal and 2023-24 MASSP President, joins us to discuss the Secret Super Staff Spirit Week and Every Student Known initiatives aimed at creating an environment of trust and relationships in his building. Listen in to learn how it's done and what it's meant for the school community.

In this episode, Traverse City Central Asst. Principal & MASSP Board of Directors Member, Ben Berger, joins the show to talk about their TIE Program which features a special class block for a large group of freshmen to receive US History, English 9 & Biology curriculum all at once with a group of teachers. Ben shares the history of the program, what's changed in Year 2, and some unexpected positive outcomes beyond just student achievement.

In this episode, former Principal of the Year and current leader at North Farmington High School, Mr. Joe Greene, shares with us a beginning of the year tradition for his seniors centered around their Student ID cards. If you have ever seen the photos on social media or via a news article, you will notice students dressing up like your favorite musicians, movie starts, characters and more. It's a lot of fun and Joe explains how the process works and how the senior class takes ownership to ensure the tradition runs smooth while holding each other accountable for their choices.

In this podcast, Nina interviews new board member, Mr. Marty Bulger, Region 11 rep and principal of East English Village Prep Academy in Detroit Public Schools Community School District. Marty talks about how he has returned full circle to the district and community that not only educated but nurtured him into the person he is today.

In this episode, we are joined by the Assistant Principal team from Granville High School that includes Ashley Buchholz, Matt Cook & Michael Kennedy, as they share their journey using a MTSS program to work with students on both academic and behavior improvements. They share who is on the team, what the components look like and lessons learned over the last decade. This is a great episode for anyone wanting to implement or improve their MTSS systems this year so let's give it a listen.