The Rachael Maves Podcast

In this episode of The Rachael Maves Podcast, Michael Krause shares his journey from substitute teacher to school board member and reflects on the lessons he has learned along the way. He discusses how the pandemic exposed longstanding learning gaps and why addressing academic recovery, mental health, and the needs of the whole child must remain a priority. Michael also explores the value of private-public partnerships, stronger parent engagement, and honest evaluation of educational programs to ensure meaningful impact. This conversation offers practical insight into how school boards and community leaders can better support student success in a rapidly changing landscape. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of The Rachael Maves Podcast, host Rachael Maves sits down with Jeff Rice, Founder of APlus+, to discuss the evolution of education and the growing movement toward personalized learning. Jeff shares how APlus+ has expanded to serve more than 128,000 students in California and why tailoring education to individual needs is essential for student success. Together, they explore the limitations of traditional models, the role of technology in enhancing human connection, and the importance of integrity and accountability in education. This conversation challenges educators and leaders to rethink what truly serves students best and to focus on meaningful outcomes over seat time. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of The Rachael Maves Podcast, host Rachael Maves sits down with Coach Joe Marino to explore his unconventional journey into education and his deep commitment to helping students succeed. Coach Joe shares why building strong relationships and honoring different learning styles are essential to supporting every student. He also challenges current education systems that prioritize metrics over people, advocating instead for accountability, structure, and flexibility that nurture students as individuals. This thoughtful conversation highlights the powerful role educators play in shaping lives and strengthening communities. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of The Rachael Maves Podcast, host Rachael Maves sits down with Bob Eby, Chairman of the Tennessee State Board of Education, to discuss his journey in education and the evolving role of state-level governance. Bob shares insights into how the board sets educational standards, oversees teacher licensure, and works to remain focused on student needs while navigating complex challenges. The conversation examines the increasing role of AI in education, the significance of personalized learning, and the vital connection between education and workforce development. Together, they underscore the importance of collaboration, thoughtful leadership, and a student-centered approach for the future of education. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of The Rachael Maves Show, Dr. Cary Holman joins the conversation to explore the critical yet often unasked questions in education — starting with one essential inquiry: Are our students truly alright? Dr. Holman emphasizes the importance of student well-being, innovative learning approaches, and the profound impact of educators on students’ lives. Together, we discuss how emotional and psychological health form the foundation for effective learning and why the future of education must take a more holistic approach. This inspiring conversation challenges the status quo and calls for schools that nurture every learner’s growth and well-being. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

Join host Rachel Maves as she sits down with Jenny Lam, a transformative education leader with over 25 years of experience. In this episode, Jenny shares her journey from being a first-generation college graduate to leading systemic changes in education. Discover her insights on bridging the digital divide, the importance of early literacy, and the role of AI in education. Jenny also discusses her dual role as an education advisor and school board member, emphasizing the need for transparency and community engagement in policy implementation. Tune in to explore the future of education and the critical questions we should be asking. #Education #AI #Leadership Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of the Rachel Maves podcast, Lindsay Tornatore discusses her journey in education, emphasizing the importance of student belonging and engagement. She highlights the challenges of chronic absenteeism and shares innovative strategies being implemented in California to address this issue. Lindsay also reflects on academic performance trends post-pandemic and the need for effective math instruction and curriculum changes. Finally, she stresses the importance of supporting educators to ensure student success. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of the Rachael Maves podcast, Dr. Liz Norton shares her journey in education, discussing her early experiences, the importance of literacy, and the challenges facing education today, particularly in math and AI. She emphasizes the need for high-quality instructional materials and the importance of personal growth in leadership roles. Dr. Norton also introduces the AI Education Summit, aimed at fostering a community of lead learners in the field of education. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of the Rachel Maves podcast, Gary Lilly, the executive director of the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents, shares his journey in education, the challenges facing public schools, and the importance of innovation in teaching. He discusses the impact of funding, the teacher shortage, and the need for community engagement in education. Lilly emphasizes the importance of understanding family needs and advocating for public education to ensure student success. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode of the Rachel Maves podcast, our guest, Dr. Charity Plaxton-Hennings, discusses her journey into education, her background in neuropsychology, and the importance of social connection in fostering resilience among students. She emphasizes the impact of the pandemic on social interactions and the need for schools to create environments that promote real-world skills and connections. Dr. Hennings shares insights on how her expertise informs educational practices and the challenges faced in the current educational landscape. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

In this episode, podcast guest Roman Stearns, founder of Scaling Student Success, discusses the need for systemic change in education, emphasizing the importance of graduate profiles that reflect community values and competencies. He speaks to the challenges posed by regulations and the lack of a coherent vision for California education. Stearns advocates for valuing learning beyond the classroom and engaging community members in the educational process to better prepare students for the future. Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.

What if the key to educational equity isn’t a new program, but a willingness to disrupt the status quo? That’s the bold vision Dr. Chris Hampton brings to Kingsport City Schools. From missing 42 days of kindergarten to leading a top-performing district, Dr. Hampton’s story is proof that all students can do hard things, when systems are designed to see them, support them, and expect greatness. In this episode of the Rachel Maves Podcast, the Tennessee Superintendent of the Year finalist shares how he’s been able to transform outcomes through: * A fierce commitment to teacher culture and retention * Disrupting outdated funding models to pursue ruthless equity * Rewriting the narrative for Title I schools, one data point at a time Episode Notes Hosted by Rachael Maves Produced and Edited by Joseph Gustilo Executive Produced by Morgan Melton and Kimberly Tumambing Links Learn more about Parsec Education here.