CheckBox Pro Series
CheckBox Pro founder, Missy Couch, interviews experts in the field of education to offer tools, tips, and insights to make the life of a charter school leader even more sustainable.
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31: Lean Management for Dismissal
07/14/2025
31: Lean Management for Dismissal
In this episode, I sit down with Tyler Heath, Chief Operations Officer at Austin Achieve Public Schools, to discuss the importance of strong school operations and how he built an effective elementary school car rider dismissal process. Tyler shares insights into the operational challenges schools face, strategies for ensuring efficiency and safety, and key lessons for school leaders looking to refine their own dismissal systems. Key takeaways: A well-structured dismissal process enhances safety, efficiency, and overall school experience. Thoughtful planning and data-driven adjustments are crucial to optimizing school operations. Common challenges include managing traffic flow, staff coordination, and parent communication. Schools should prioritize clear procedures, staff training, and continuous process improvement. Strong operations lay the foundation for a positive school culture and improved stakeholder satisfaction. Connect with Tyler Heath: LinkedIn: To learn more about Lean Management, Tyler Heath recommends his favorite ops book - by Jeffrey Liker ( () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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30: School Psychology, Simplified
07/08/2025
30: School Psychology, Simplified
In this episode, I sit down with ShaVanety Jones, an early career school psychologist, executive functioning coach, and founder of Academic Fusion LLC. With a unique background in psychology and theater, ShaVanety shares how she helps students—especially gifted learners—build confidence, develop essential life skills, and stay engaged through creative tools like improv and social-emotional storytelling. We unpack the multifaceted role of a school psychologist, why third and fourth grade are pivotal years for student development, and how simple acts like writing thank-you notes can teach powerful life lessons. Key takeaways: School psychologists are trained across 10 domains, serving as both evaluators and advocates for students’ academic and mental health needs. ShaVanety’s work focuses on executive functioning, social-emotional growth, and early intervention—especially for gifted students who may struggle with organization and behavior. Academic Fusion, her after-school program, blends theater and skill-building to make learning about time management, communication, and peer interaction fun. Simple strategies like preference assessments and handwritten thank-you notes can make a big difference in student engagement and confidence. Third and fourth grade are often inflection points when students begin to disengage from school—early support and skill-building can help prevent long-term academic and behavioral challenges. The job of a school psychologist extends far beyond counseling—it involves legal timelines, coordination, testing, and deep family communication. Academic Fusion LLC currently operates as a B2B (Business to Business), so she is hired by school districts and organizations. However, keep an eye on things because her goal is to work as a B2C (Business to Customers, ie. parents). Connect with ShaVanety Jones: : : Complete her : UCLA PEERS: CheckBox Pro (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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29: What's Saving My Life?
06/16/2025
29: What's Saving My Life?
In this episode, Missy Couch shares her personal reflections on the things that are saving her life, a concept inspired by Emily P. Freeman of The Next Right Thing and Kendra Adachi from The Lazy Genius. She discusses ten key elements that bring joy and connection to her life, including coffee, book clubs, Audible, soccer, and family traditions. Each topic highlights the importance of self-care, relationships, and finding joy in everyday activities. Key Takeaways: Reflecting on what's saving your life can be enlightening. Joy can be found even in the small things, like a cup of coffee. Relationships bring purpose and fulfillment to the mundane. Taking time to invest in hobbies is essential. Links: The Next Right Thing podcast - The Lazy Genius podcast - Cometeer Coffee - Marco Polo - Audible - CheckBox Pro () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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28: Simplifying School Procurement
06/03/2025
28: Simplifying School Procurement
In this episode, I sit down with Daniel Casselli, President of BuyQ, to discuss how group purchasing can help schools—especially smaller charter and private schools—stretch their dollars, streamline operations, and build stronger procurement systems. Drawing from his background in education, edtech, and operations, Daniel offers a masterclass in purchasing strategy, explaining how schools can leverage collective buying power, avoid common pitfalls, and set up procurement systems that actually work. Whether you're new to procurement or trying to bring more strategy to your school’s purchasing processes, Daniel shares actionable insights that can save you time, money, and administrative headaches. Key Takeaways: Group purchasing helps smaller schools access pricing and vendor support typically reserved for large networks. BuyQ negotiates national contracts that reduce costs, improve compliance, and save time by eliminating the need for individual RFPs. Schools should prioritize clarity in procurement ownership, better alignment between budgeting and purchasing, and modernized systems to avoid capacity drain. Strong procurement policies and procedures must be realistic, clearly communicated, and consistently followed. Procurement is not just about savings—it’s about improving the student and staff experience through intentional purchasing decisions. Connect with Daniel Casselli: LinkedIn: ( BuyQ Website: Free Consultation: BuyQ Contracts Portfolio: () Podcast: Charter School Insider (available on all major platforms) – Learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable. Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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27: Coaching K-2 Teachers: How School Leaders Can Support Foundational Literacy
05/19/2025
27: Coaching K-2 Teachers: How School Leaders Can Support Foundational Literacy
In this episode, Markesha Tisby, M.Ed., returns to the Pro Series to dive deeper into how school and instructional leaders can support K-2 teachers in delivering high-quality foundational literacy instruction. Building on her first episode on phonics and early literacy, Markesha now shifts the spotlight to leadership—sharing practical ways administrators, coaches, and consultants can create the conditions for strong phonics instruction to thrive. Whether you're a school leader looking to sharpen your early literacy lens or a coach seeking more intentional ways to guide new teachers, this conversation offers concrete actions and reminders of what great support really looks like. Key Takeaways: K-2 teachers often feel undervalued; leaders should make their support visible and intentional. School leaders don’t need to be literacy experts—but they should aim to be lead learners. Strong PD for phonics includes more than just an overview; it requires follow-up coaching, modeling, and space to try without fear of evaluation. Leaders should avoid conflating coaching visits with formal walkthroughs to protect teacher vulnerability and growth. Phonics instruction can’t be learned in one session—teachers need continued opportunities to deepen their practice with responsive, data-informed coaching. Connect with Markesha Tisby: Website: – Schedule a consultation today! LinkedIn: ( LinkedIn: ( Recommended Reading: ( ( CheckBox Pro (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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26: Building Foundational Readers: Phonics, Confidence & K-2 Instruction
05/05/2025
26: Building Foundational Readers: Phonics, Confidence & K-2 Instruction
In this episode, I sit down with Markesha Tisby, M.Ed., founder and CEO of Tisby Educational Consulting, to explore the critical importance of K-2 instruction and how foundational literacy sets the stage for long-term academic success. A former early childhood teacher and coach, Markesha shares strategies for integrating phonics into all content areas and building joyful, rigorous instruction that supports young readers. Key Takeaways: Strong K-2 instruction lays the groundwork for a student’s future academic performance. Phonics instruction can and should be woven into all subjects—not just reading blocks. School leaders should focus on both instructional practice and student engagement during early literacy walkthroughs. Teachers benefit from routines, research-backed resources, and time to deeply understand foundational reading strategies. Slowing down instruction in the early grades can lead to faster, more sustainable growth in later years. Connect with Markesh Tisby: LinkedIn: () LinkedIn: () Website: – Schedule a consultation today! Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts: Recommended Reading: () ( (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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25: Understanding School Data for Stronger Boards
04/21/2025
25: Understanding School Data for Stronger Boards
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Henrietta Muñoz, CEO of the Texas A&M University-San Antonio Institute for School and Community Partnerships. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and school-community partnerships, Dr. Muñoz shares why data is essential for school boards and how board members—especially those without an education background—can better understand and use school data to make informed decisions. We discuss the key data points school boards should review regularly, strategies for decoding complex data, and the importance of building trust between school leaders and board members. Dr. Muñoz also highlights the role of board members as strategic partners in school success. Key takeaways: School boards play a critical role in governance, financial oversight, and ensuring academic success. Key data points for board members include enrollment, attendance, financial health, academic performance, and student persistence rates. Data should be presented in diverse ways (charts, infographics, narratives) to accommodate different learning styles. Understanding growth measures in student achievement is as important as absolute performance levels. Board members should embrace curiosity, ask questions, and engage as thought partners rather than passive reviewers of data. Connect with Dr. Henrietta Muñoz: ( CheckBox Pro ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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24: Turning Data into Action
03/31/2025
24: Turning Data into Action
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alicia Martin, CEO and founder of DWG Educate & Serve LLC, to discuss how school and district leaders can effectively use data to drive student success. Known as the "Data Diva Doc," Dr. Martin shares her expertise in data-driven instruction, assessment strategy, and leadership development. We explore her three-step framework—Discover, Work, and Grow—designed to help educators analyze data, implement targeted support, and monitor progress to ensure continuous improvement. Dr. Martin also provides practical tips on making data more accessible, reducing overwhelm, and fostering a culture of data-informed decision-making. Ket takeaways: Schools should move beyond test scores and analyze multiple data sources, including attendance, discipline, and student progress tracking. Effective data use involves a structured process: Discover (Data Analysis), Work (Targeted Support), and Grow (Progress Monitoring). Leaders need to make time for data analysis and classroom observations by structuring their schedules intentionally. Data should be actionable—schools must have systems in place to turn insights into meaningful interventions. Student data conferences empower students to take ownership of their learning and performance. Connect with Dr. Alicia Martin: LinkedIn: Dr. Alicia Martin ( Website: (Visit the "Contact Us" tab for free data-driven instructional tips and upcoming PD opportunities.) Social Media: @DWGEducateServe on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter Hashtag: #DataDivaDoc CheckBox Pro () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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23: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly of Testing
03/17/2025
23: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly of Testing
James Aycock has supported students with disabilities in schools for close to two decades. It truly is his calling and boy am I thankful he is in that space. He shares with listeners the hard truth about tests but doesn’t leave us discouraged. He teaches us about the different types of assessments out there and how they are (or should) be used. He offers advice for parents on what to do when they suspect their student is struggling or needs more of a challenge, and the answer is not, “ambush the teacher during carpool.” LINKS: James wrote a piece for SCORE titled, “Teacher Voice: In Defense of Standardized Testing.” ( Book recommendations from James: Rasing Kids Who Read: What Parents & Teachers Can Do by Daniel T. Willingham ( 10 to 25: The Science of Moticating Young People by David Yeager, PhD ( Also, if you want to have a steady flow of non-fiction, then he recommends The Next Big Idea Club* () where you can get 2 books per quarter to increase your knowledge…a skill he advises every school take with students starting as early as elementary school. *Right now they are offering 20% off for new members with code NBIC20 James Aycock ( CheckBox Pro () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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22: Leveraging AI in Schools
03/17/2025
22: Leveraging AI in Schools
In this episode, I sit down with Roger Campbell, award-winning speaker, AI strategist, and founder of Gemstack. Roger shares insights into how AI is transforming education, from streamlining administrative tasks to enhancing classroom learning. We discuss practical ways school leaders can integrate AI tools, debunk common misconceptions, and explore ethical considerations around data privacy. Key Takeaways: AI can reduce administrative burdens, freeing up educators to focus on students. Tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude can assist with tutoring, curriculum planning, and data analysis. Understanding privacy concerns and risk tolerance is essential before implementing AI in schools. The key to successful AI adoption is starting small, experimenting, and prioritizing education for staff. Schools should leverage existing AI capabilities within tools they already use, like Google Workspace. LINKS: Take our letting us know where you are in your AI journey! Connect with Roger: Website: (https://gemstack.ai) LinkedIn: Roger Campbell II ( (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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21: Test Prep: Through Mindfulness
02/05/2025
21: Test Prep: Through Mindfulness
** Trigger warning: This episode includes brief mentions of addiction, alcoholism, and suicide. If these topics are difficult for you, please take care while listening or skip this episode if needed (skip to 11:17 to avoid mentions). Your well-being is important to us.** Athea Davis is the SEL Director / After School Mindfulness Educator at Etoile Academy Charter School. With testing season around the corner, anxiety and stress is heightened for students and staff. She shared strategies that educators and parents can walk students through who are struggling with test anxiety: Name it to tame it Hands on heart breathing Counting 3-5 breaths. In for 3. Out for 5. Take 5 Breathing (or Starfish Breathing for littles) Add movement: torso twist from your desk Shake Out! She wrapped up our time together with a guided body scan. Teachers can easily incorporate this portion of audio into their classroom whenever they notice the need for some anxiety management. LINKS: () Website/Book: Today's Gonna Be Awesomesauce: Podcast: Mind Declutter w/ Athea Davis: Coalition of Schools Educating Mindfully, Mindfulness-Based SEL Virtual Resource Showcase on Friday, February 21st: Social Handles: @atheadavis () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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20: Meet the CheckBox Pro Team
01/27/2025
20: Meet the CheckBox Pro Team
Missy Couch introduces each member of the CheckBox Pro team! With their combined efforts, this team provided 10,392 hours of support to school leaders across the country in 2024. Each team member shares: the city and state they live in, their total years in education, when they joined CBP, why they like doing this work, and what is one thing, big or small, personal or professional that they hope to check off in 2025? Listen in to learn more about the folks taking steps to make the lives of a school leader even more sustainable! LINKS: () ( () () () Learn more about our team ()- learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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19: 2024 Year in Review
01/14/2025
19: 2024 Year in Review
Missy Couch shares highlights from 2024! LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: () () ( ( ( () ( () ()- learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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18: Securing a Facility: Building a Team 101
12/17/2024
18: Securing a Facility: Building a Team 101
Paul Morrissey is a school leader who understands the woes and joys of securing a facility. With seven campuses, he can attest that no two facility projects are the same. Which is why his advice to any leader looking to secure a facility is: Build a mission aligned team, trust the team to do their work, and be a critical partner to that team along the way. A school is not your building. Find the right space for right now, when you're in an early stage school and be comfortable that that will open up the opportunities in the future. Do your homework. In order to do that successfully you have to be humble, you have to recognize and be able to come to grips with what you don't know, and you have to do the work to learn that as best you can. Tune in to hear Paul’s journey to becoming the Founder & CEO of Compass Rose Public Schools. Glean some insights on what it takes to undergo a facility project with optimism and joy because at the end of the day it is what happens inside the walls of your building that matters most! LINKS: ( ( ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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17: Securing a Facility: Project Management 101
12/03/2024
17: Securing a Facility: Project Management 101
Andrew Stanton is a Principal and Project Manager at Project Management Services, Inc. or more commonly known as PMSI. He talks through the key responsibilities of a project manager for a facility project. But the thing I honed in on was the importance of having one person on the team who has the big, start to end picture that the leader can lean on. Rather than coordinating with a dozen contractors, developers, architects, etc., the leader is able to communicate and rely on their project manager to keep things moving. Talk about a time and sanity saver! Tune in to learn more about Andrew and why being a project manager for charter schools has been a meaningful career. LINKS: ( ( (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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16: Securing a Facility: Design and Build 101
11/26/2024
16: Securing a Facility: Design and Build 101
Eric Cohen has been in the business of designing and building charter schools for the last decade! Whether you need a designer, general contractor, or construction manager, Butler-Cohen Design+Build does it all and they are another important member of the facility team. They bring functionality and beauty to the process, so that kids have a place they are excited to learn and grow. Regardless of the company you use to bring the school’s vision to life, it is important that they have strong references, can use a dollar efficiently, and can finish on time… because the children come to school in August no matter what! AND, what is the difference between a developer and general contractor? Listen in to hear how well Eric schools me on just that! LINKS: ( ( (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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15: Securing a Facility: Legal Counsel 101
11/12/2024
15: Securing a Facility: Legal Counsel 101
Tom Sage is a passionate and mission aligned lawyer who any school leader would be lucky to have on their team! After talking to him, I can’t believe I ever thought a lawyer wasn’t essential to a facility deal for schools. Tom discusses how he got into this business, the role the lawyer plays on the facilities team, and why after all these years he still does this work. Lawyers are in positions of trust, so Tom’s advice: Meet your lawyer, in person if able Check their references with other school leaders Lean on your state advocacy group for recommendations Listen in to be re-energized for any role you may play in education because it all has an impact on improving opportunities for all students! LINKS: ( ( (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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14: Securing a Facility: Real Estate 101
10/28/2024
14: Securing a Facility: Real Estate 101
Amy Martorano is a real estate broker and has closed numerous deals for charter schools! She has helped leaders find a building that will allow students to learn and grow. She gives listeners a broad overview of the facility search process and emphasizes that it is never too early for leaders to start searching. Procuring a space can take 12-18 months alone, and then the project managers and architects can take over to ensure the space is up to code and day-one ready! Listen in to have a better understanding of the process and hurdles that school leaders have to go through in order to find and create an environment as unique as their school’s mission! LINKS: ()- the real estate brokerage and advisory firm for education and non-profit facilities nationwide. ( - outline of services that Amy walks us through ( - Partner & Broker at Insite EFS ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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13: Securing a Facility: Funding 101
10/07/2024
13: Securing a Facility: Funding 101
Drew Masterson founded Masterson Advisors LLC to provide financial advice to founding and growing organizations who need someone they can trust. With 40 years of experience in general public finance and 23 years focused on advising charter school leaders, he was able to share a wealth of knowledge about the development and execution of a plan to secure a facility. The facility search is a pain point for almost every leader. With so many financing options available and a school leaders main priority of educating students, it is essential they surround themselves with a team who is providing objective and honest advice. Masterson Advisors are data-driven and they let numbers guide their recommendations. “We never say no. The numbers say no.” Drew Masterson Drew and his team are eager to help charters and other organizations find the right financing fit for their specific needs! LINKS: (https://mastersonadvisors.com/) - empowering communities to grow through uniquely crafted financial solutions (https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-masterson-55b94715b/) (https://www.checkboxpro.com/) - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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12: Students & Social Media
09/23/2024
12: Students & Social Media
Laura Tierney is the Founder and CEO of The Social Institute. At TSI, their goal is to help students navigate the social media world in positive and productive ways. Laura believes, “if students aren’t healthy, they can’t learn.” Through collaboration with students and schools, they have developed the core skills students believe they should have for social media use: Playing to your core values Protecting your privacy Striking a balance for our time and attention “Cyber-backing” Finding your influencers Using your mic for good Handling the pressure Tune in to learn how you too can be a positive role model for the students in your life so they can #WinAtSocial RESOURCES: The Family Standards Agreement (), Elementary School Version ( Full page of resources, webinars, and blogs ( CONNECT: The Social Institute () - a K-12 curriculum that has created a gamified, peer-to-peer learning platform to equip students, educators, and families to navigate their social world - in the classroom and beyond, online and offline - in healthy, high-character ways. Laura Tierney ( CheckBox Pro () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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11: School Leader to CEO
09/03/2024
11: School Leader to CEO
Danny Song was a teacher, leader, and founder for 15 years in the urban education sector. He recently transitioned to a CEO role of Give Services, a commercial services company with a mission to give back. He shared how that transition was made easier by the skills he developed through his time in the classroom and leading schools. Most specifically, the skills of empathy and “knowing how to learn” can be carried over to any industry and make that person highly effective. From school leader to school vendor, Danny understands the importance of being a strong vendor. Strong vendors allow leaders to focus on what matters most for their organizations, and he recommends school leaders consider the following when vetting potential vendors: As a leader, have respect for your own time. Find vendors that have that same level of respect for your time and expertise. Find vendors that admire the work happening in your school. Do a reference check. Assess quality and attention to detail. LINKS: ( - email him at if you want to learn more about Give Thread or Give Clean. () ()- learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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10: Body, Mind, Emotions: Leading from Cohesion
08/20/2024
10: Body, Mind, Emotions: Leading from Cohesion
Jill Dunchick has a mission of “developing authentic leaders through body, mind, and emotional cohesion.” She walks us through how her coaching sessions, Impact Cohorts, and various training opportunities equip leaders to identify and live out their core values through “felt sense” and “interoception.” Through this ongoing process, leaders are able to navigate the challenges and joys of school leadership and create sustainability for themselves. She offers the following advice for leaders who hope to lead authentically and sustainably: Consider your relationship to authority. Consider your relationship with power. Speak freely to your team members so they know when and how much of a say they have on decisions. Give yourself structure: calendar time for mindfulness, prep for meetings, etc. LINKS: Jill Dunchick ( Jill Dunchick Consulting ( CheckBox Pro () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Licensed music ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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9: Founding Schools: Pre & Post Kids
08/05/2024
9: Founding Schools: Pre & Post Kids
Elizabeth Simpson has extensive experience in education from teaching to leading to founding. She has managed to create sustainability for herself by embodying the philosophy of, “if I am well, then my school will be well.” She has founded two different schools, one pre-kids and the other after becoming a mom. In order to maintain a high level of effectiveness both at school and at home, she implements the following strategies: Strong communication Delegation Learning from other leaders Giving herself “think time” Investing in joyful and life-giving experiences Using AI for first drafts Outsourcing responsibilities when possible Elizabeth’s Superpower: Knowing her people. LINKS: ( () - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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8: Navigating Strategic Planning and Fundraising in Education
07/18/2024
8: Navigating Strategic Planning and Fundraising in Education
Ryan Dolibois of the Sarofim Foundation has been in education since the 20th century! With much of his career focused on strategic planning and fundraising, he is able to speak extensively about how and why these two pieces are essential for the growth and sustainability of a non-profit organization, specifically charter and private schools. Ryan quickly understood and embraced three main ideas while leading his school: Your job is to fundraise Your board is your secret weapon Every meeting or interaction has value This was evident in how he structured his calendar on a weekly basis. He engaged community members, collaborated with his board, and rarely found himself behind a desk! When asked how he has managed to stay in education for so long, he had this advice for school leaders: Recharge. Do something fun for yourself. Take a sabbath. Find a day or even a couple of hours each week to just rest. Have an identity outside of the work. LINKS: ( ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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7: Two Leaders. One Vision.
07/01/2024
7: Two Leaders. One Vision.
Mera Dougherty and Stephanie Parga are two leaders with one vision: provide an amazing academic experience for students and families. Every decision they make is with kids in mind, which is why they are intentional about their hiring practices and teacher development. Their advice when starting a new school in a community that may be hesitant to have you there: Learn your community. Hire from your community. Develop your teachers slowly and consistently. Create sustainability for your team. They have been intentional with their own professional development along the way so that between the two of them they had the combined skills necessary to successfully found and open a school. Stephanie’s superpower: relentless in upholding high expectations. Mera’s superpower: meeting people where they are. Mera understands who the person is now and offers them encouragement, so that Stephanie can push them to be their best for kids. LINKS: ( ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premium Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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6: Expanding Your Charter School
06/20/2024
6: Expanding Your Charter School
Sam Durant of Libertas School of Memphis speaks with us about charter school expansion. What started out as a personal journey to find the right school for her daughter, became a professional passion to give this Montessori educational experience to all students. She is now overseeing the expansion process of Libertas into grades 6th-8th. She had a wealth of knowledge about identifying when and how to expand your charter school and ensure you are asking the right questions to avoid as many challenges as possible. Expanding your charter is not a solo project and Sam speaks about the various project management tools, team contributions, and coaching she has received to ensure they have a strong start in the Fall of 2024! Some tips she has for school leaders in the expansion process and beyond: Choose joy Get in classrooms Find partners to keep you accountable and offer support LINKS: (https://www.libertasmemphis.org/) ()- learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable ()- project management tool that Libertas has used during the expansion process ()- program for new or experienced leaders in the building or sustaining phase of their school Music: Energizer by Chris Phaze licensed through Premiun Beat by Shutterstock ID: ILRNI9DIEHE4JTVQ
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5: Developing First-Year Teachers
06/03/2024
5: Developing First-Year Teachers
Kalli Harrell is an Instructional Coach, science content lead, and adjunct professor with Memphis Teacher Residency (MTR). MTR trains prospective teachers in a year-long residency model through graduate courses, classroom internship, and personalized coaching. As a residency program, she shares how they work alongside various school leaders to ensure that their teachers are trained and equipped to be highly effective for the students of Memphis. Kalli talked to us through how her years as a teacher, instructional coach, and dean of students in the school setting equipped her to support and coach teachers in their first 3 years across the city of Memphis. She offers the following advice for leaders who are coaching teachers: Be in classrooms as much as possible Leverage the effective teachers you have in your building to coach newer teachers (and compensate them for these extra responsibilities) Create strong alignment on what effective instruction looks like and is measured Get to know the teacher and have a thorough understanding of their goals, growth areas, and strengths Be a teacher’s cheerleader LINKS: ( - learn more about the mission of MTR ( - their application is open for anyone looking to live and work in Memphis, TN ( - identify if there are teacher residency programs near you ( - learn more about the services CheckBox Pro offers to make the work of school leaders more sustainable
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4: ESSER Funds are Over, What's Next?
05/20/2024
4: ESSER Funds are Over, What's Next?
Sam Brobeck is the Strategy and Partnerships Lead at Education Resource Strategies, a national nonprofit that partners with district, school and state leaders to transform how they use resources (people, time, and money) to create strategic school systems that enable every school to prepare every child for tomorrow, no matter their race or income. Sam shared about the budgetary challenges that many states, districts and schools may be facing in the coming months and years coming out of the ESSER era. However, he was hopeful that schools will be able to sustain their investments by strategically focusing on the right levers to pull to maximize student learning. ERS helps leaders with this strategic piece through year-over-year partnerships, but also by providing access to free tools and publications to help leaders leverage their resources. These publications include: , , for leaders interested in designing different experiences for students and teachers. LINKS: () (
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3: Maximizing Student Enrollment
05/09/2024
3: Maximizing Student Enrollment
Sawyer Schafbuch founded Everydesk, a marketing consultancy aimed to help schools highlight their mission and vision to students and families! So many schools are doing the good work, but don’t know how to strategically market their program to the right audience. Sawyer walks us through why student recruitment needs to be a school’s baseline when thinking about their revenue. Filling every seat gives that student access to a high quality education AND helps you meet your budgetary goals. It’s a no-brainer! He outlines common mistakes schools make when it comes to their website and misunderstanding the stages prospective families move through when they first learn about your school. Finally, he offers some quick tips for schools to employ now to maximize their student enrollment: Nurture your prospective families - send an email every other week that is mission aligned Add a “how did you hear about us?” question to your application Tell the story: What does student transformation look like for our students? LINKS:
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2: Investing In Yourself & Others Through Professional Development
04/23/2024
2: Investing In Yourself & Others Through Professional Development
I had a conversation with Steven Ward who is the Principal at Prodeo Columbia Heights Elementary Academy. Steven has been intentional about his professional development and continues to invest in both himself and his team through strong and targeted PD. He provides three metrics for assessing the value of a professional development opportunity. Aligned to school's mission and vision Aligned professional goals What is the return on investment? Check out our website at https://www.checkboxpro.com/resources to download a Professional Development Opportunity Assessment template. He offers three tips for principals: Find an organization that aligns with your personal values. Choose joy. Ask for help and seek out feedback from your team. LINKS & RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:
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