MI SoundBoard

An ongoing conversation on the current state of public education in Michigan and nationwide. Listen along as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE invites prominent education voices from across the nation to speak about what’s happening and the possible impact on students.

An Opportunity for Every Student 08/22/2025

An Opportunity for Every Student The joins the podcast with its Executive Director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss, to discuss how the organization works to ensure all Michigan students understand the opportunities available to them for education beyond high school, as well as the current state of college graduates in the state. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/37904125

Settling Retirement 08/08/2025

Settling Retirement The long-running lawsuit against the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) over superintendent compensation may be settled, but the implications are still unfolding. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, and Bob Schindler, attorney at Miller Johnson and legal representative in the case, to break down what the settlement means for districts. Learn what steps administrators can take now to prepare for the coming changes to superintendent retirement compensation. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/37704020

On a Budget 07/11/2025

On a Budget The 2025–26 school year is already off to a rocky start, with state budget delays leaving districts in limbo. In this episode of MISoundBoard, we talk with MASB Deputy Director Kent Cartwright, Ed.D., CPA, about the challenges school leaders face when funding is uncertain. Drawing on his deep experience in school finance, Kent shares practical insights on navigating budgeting obstacles and what to keep in mind as the year unfolds. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/37350815

Curbing Conflict 06/27/2025

Curbing Conflict At MASB, one of our core missions is helping school boards work more effectively—regardless of who's at the table. A key tool in achieving that goal is the DISC assessment, a proven method for understanding behavioral styles and improving communication. In this episode, we’re joined by MASB’s own Education Programming Manager, MacKenzie Feldpausch, M.A., our in-house DISC expert. MacKenzie shares insights into how DISC can transform the way boards collaborate, connect, and lead together. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/37163030

Big Results Come From Small Details 06/13/2025

Big Results Come From Small Details On this episode of MISoundboard, we sit down with Doug LeFleur, Vice President of Business Development at Munetrix, to dive into the often-overlooked world of school data. What insights—and opportunities—can districts uncover when they truly invest in understanding their data? /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/36974555

Swapping Seats 05/23/2025

Swapping Seats In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're turning the tables once again. Yasmeen Youngs, the MASB Board of Directors' Member-At-Large, joins us as the interviewer rather than a guest. MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, takes the guest seat to share his personal insights on the state of public education, MASB's mission and his experiences within the association. It's a fresh perspective on the familiar voices you've come to know. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/36670240

AI, Here to Stay 05/09/2025

AI, Here to Stay AI is evolving fast—and reshaping the way we live, learn, and teach. In this episode, we welcome back Justin Bruno, AI Strategist at Michigan Virtual, to explore the latest trends in artificial intelligence and what they mean for the future of education. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/36511820

Civil Discourse 04/25/2025

Civil Discourse In today’s often polarized climate, even school governance isn't immune to political tension. That’s why fostering civility among school board members is more important than ever. Join David Dulio, Ph.D.—political science professor and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University—for a thoughtful conversation with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Together, they explore the importance of respectful dialogue, the role of civic engagement, and what we can all learn from choosing civility in challenging times. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/36280220

The Dream Team 04/11/2025

The Dream Team On this episode of MI Soundboard, we dive into the most critical relationship influencing the success of any school district—the one between the board and the superintendent. Tina Kerr, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), joins MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba for a candid conversation on why this partnership must be built on trust, communication, and shared vision from day one. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/36057160

Innovation Formation 03/21/2025

Innovation Formation Investing in professional development is key to fostering meaningful change in education. In this episode, we’re joined by School Design Strategist Tovah Sheldon, Ph.D., from Michigan Virtual, to explore their transformative coaching program. Discover how this initiative helps district leaders ignite innovation, drive progress, and create lasting impact in their schools. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/35789990

One Team, Together 03/07/2025

One Team, Together Effective onboarding for newly elected board members can mean the difference between smooth, strategic governance and dysfunction. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Horst and Amanda Love to discuss how they transformed a contentious election into a collaborative, high-functioning board in Clarkston Community Schools. Tune in to hear their journey from division to unity. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/35563955

Safe and Sound 02/21/2025

Safe and Sound Kent ISD’s Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns, returns to the podcast to share insights on the district’s proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/35377060

The Power of Your Words 02/07/2025

The Power of Your Words This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto, as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/35191640

Your Voice, Our Priorities 01/24/2025

Your Voice, Our Priorities After every election year, MASB’s Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key priorities that will guide our advocacy efforts over the next two years. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/34961735

A New Year for Superintendents 01/08/2025

A New Year for Superintendents Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan’s school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Executive Search Services. Together, we’ll discuss how school boards can foster a productive, collaborative environment with both new and experienced superintendents—setting the stage for a successful year ahead! /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/34759620

Supercharged Leadership: Michigan's Superintendent of the Year 12/11/2024

Supercharged Leadership: Michigan's Superintendent of the Year Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the Year is back, and it's one you won’t want to miss! Join us as Bangor Township Schools Superintendent Matthew Schmidt shares the creative ways he’s helping students reach their potential and creating a productive school culture. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/34368730

Taking the Next Steps 11/22/2024

Taking the Next Steps The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB’s own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/34096456

The Bottom Line is Students 11/08/2024

The Bottom Line is Students In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line’s mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/33838567

Excellence in Assistance 10/25/2024

Excellence in Assistance Since 2005, the has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we’re excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation’s current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to support students across the state. setseg.org/foundation /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/33573307

The Importance of Succession Planning 10/11/2024

The Importance of Succession Planning In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession planning. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/33408217

Being Schooled by AI 09/27/2024

Being Schooled by AI AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it’s a discussion that’s here to stay. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been integrating new AI tools into the district’s classrooms. Tune in to explore the exciting possibilities—and important precautions—surrounding this transformative technology. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/33217682

Board Elections 101 09/13/2024

Board Elections 101 With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/33024387

Principal Principles 08/23/2024

Principal Principles In this episode of MI SoundBoard, we sit down with Jon Wilcox, Principal of Petoskey Middle School and the 2024 Michigan Principal of the Year. Discover the journey and impactful experiences that led to his recognition. Tune in to hear firsthand why Jon is celebrated as a leader in education. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/32711467

Life Lessons from the President 08/09/2024

Life Lessons from the President In this episode, Don sits down with James Johnson, the newly appointed president of the MASB Board of Directors and a key figure from Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools. A dedicated advocate for public education and lifelong learning, James shares his insights and experiences from his long-standing commitment to education in his community. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/32501617

A Cautionary Budget 07/26/2024

A Cautionary Budget The 2024/2025 School Aid Budget has been signed into effect, and it’s creating a lot of questions. Join Director of Government Relations, Jennifer Smith, as she dissects the details and explores the background leading to this point. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/32278507

A Leader Inspiring New Leaders 07/12/2024

A Leader Inspiring New Leaders In this episode, meet Kelley Cusmano, the 2024-25 Michigan Teacher of the Year and Student Leadership Teacher at Rochester High School. Discover the passions that drive her classroom and learn why her community nominated her for this prestigious award. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/32102157

A New Age of Evaluation 06/21/2024

A New Age of Evaluation The Michigan legislature has spoken and there are new laws surrounding how you evaluate your superintendents. Hear from MASB’s own Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. along with Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Jay Bennett, M.Ed. about what you can expect from these changes. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/31822427

Proactive Choices, Safe Schools 06/07/2024

Proactive Choices, Safe Schools School safety is a crucial topic that requires our constant attention to enable proactive measures against violence. In this episode, we welcome back Kim Root, Manager of the Office of School Safety, to discuss the current state of school safety and the valuable resources her department provides to school districts. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/31634952

Filling Board Seats 05/24/2024

Filling Board Seats As it's an election year, will all of your seats be filled? Join Executive Director Don Wotruba and Assistant Director of Leadership Development Debbie Stair as they discuss the current state of boards of education in Michigan and why it's crucial to bring civic-minded individuals to the table. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/31434532

Re-envisioning Michigan's Public Education System 05/10/2024

Re-envisioning Michigan's Public Education System Join our Executive Director, Don Wotruba as he talks to Venessa Keesler, self-proclaimed data nerd and President and CEO of Launch Michigan, about the ways data, policy and advocacy can help Michigan students succeed. /episode/index/show/misoundboard/id/31178632

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