Episode

In today’s episode, host Aidan McDowell sits down with Dr. Anthony Mays, Superintendent of Alief ISD in Southwest Houston, where nearly 40,000 students learn across one of the most diverse districts in the country.

Together, Aidan and John dig into what it means to define high-quality instruction, avoid “permanent scaffolds,” design systems that actually change classroom practice, and help students become independent, metacognitive learners in a world of AI.

Together, Aidan and Dr. Conaway dig into what it means to center belonging, redesign MTSS as a true equity engine, rethink mental health supports, and move beyond labels so every student feels seen, valued, and able to thrive.

In today’s episode, host Aidan McDowell sits down with Dr. Michael Matsuda, Superintendent of Anaheim Union High School District since 2014 and founder of the National AI K12 Summit.

Jonathan shares how his “love, learn, lead” mindset and research on authentic leadership shape the way he leads from the front lines, whether that is riding in an ambulance with a student or partnering with state leaders to pilot COVID-19 research.

Together, Aidan and Wendy dig into what it looks like to truly put kids first in a diverse, Title I community, co-author policy with students, embrace AI, and create real pathways to opportunity for all 13,000 “D2 kids”. 

Dr. Williams shares the story behind Fayetteville’s middle school choice programs, including outdoor adventure and science-focused pathways that give students hands-on, interest-driven learning anchored in community experiences.

With over three decades in education, Vicki shares how her leadership journey—from classroom teacher to superintendent—has been grounded in trust, community partnership, and an unwavering belief in every child’s potential.

From collaborative learning walks and strong PLCs to proactive supports, career pathways, and a renewed focus on trust and community, Trish describes a district leaning into practical, people-first improvement.

Recognized by the White House and U.S. Department of Education as one of the nation’s top 35 district leaders in personalized learning, Dr. Miyashiro shares how Cajon Valley is redefining school around purpose, relevance, and student agency.

A former minor-league baseball prospect turned lifelong educator, Dr. Amerson shares how his 25-year journey—from classroom teacher to superintendent.

From rural equity challenges to staff burnout to graduate preparedness, Dr. Mulford shows us what it looks like when a superintendent leads with compassion and conviction.

From building a new ag-tech center to integrating soft skills into academic goals, Dr. Surrency shares how Putnam County is creating opportunities for every kind of learner — not just college-bound students.

Whether you're leading a district, coaching teachers, or simply wondering how schools can evolve to meet the real needs of students and educators—this episode is rich with insight, humanity, and hope.

In the debut episode of Beyond the Syllabus, we sit down with Rick Cohen, Chief Academic Officer of Edison Township Public Schools and a leading voice in translating the science of learning into real-world classroom practice.