In this episode, Swimming Upstream host Tom Luna welcomes Lizzette Reynolds, the newly appointed Commissioner of Education for Tennessee. Lizzette will share her inspiring journey from serving as the VP of Policy at Excel in Ed to leading one of the nation’s most progressive education systems.

We’ll dive into her initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable, long-term improvements in education, ensuring that every student is equipped for success in their future.

Plus, stay tuned for some intriguing insights about Tennessee, including its unique claim to fame with Moon Pies and its stunning array of caves!

Key Moments

00:00 Inspired to work for Governor Bill Lee.

05:10 Governor Lee focuses on long-term educational impact.

07:51 The Achievement indicator had been student proficiency.

12:03 The Team worked hard, ensuring schools' performance data.

15:16 Improving literacy and math: Adjusting policies needed.

17:53 Refocus education on academics for student success.

21:11 Tennessee invested $500M in career technical education.

Connect with Lizzette Reynolds

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzetteg

Website: https://www.tn.gov/education/

In this episode, the host Tom Luna dives into a conversation with Lisa Coons, the superintendent of public instruction for the Common Wealth of Virginia. Lisa shares her remarkable journey from a high school English teacher to key educational leadership roles across Tennessee and Virginia. We dive into her experience with modernizing the funding formula in Tennessee, tackling literacy challenges, implementing high-dosage tutoring, and rethinking accountability systems.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation about courageous leadership in education and the inspiring changes being made to support students and educators alike.

Key Moments

00:00 Tennessee's progress in education funding and reform.

04:03 The Tennessee formula simplifies education funding for students.

07:32 Legislators consider funding formula impact on constituents.

11:08 Improving literacy through teacher training and support.

14:10 Targeted tutoring accelerates learning and avoids remediation.

17:25 ESSA accountability aims to clarify student progress.

20:09 Superintendent Lisa Coons discusses tackling difficult issues.

Connect with Lisa Coons

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lisa-coons/

Website: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/

In this episode, host Tom Luna is joined by a familiar face, Ellen Weaver, the State Superintendent of South Carolina. Ellen sits down with Tom at the Excel in Ed conference to reflect on her first year in office and the strides her state has made in education. From the sense of urgency she brought to her role to the transformative focus on literacy through the science of reading, Ellen shares her journey and the bold initiatives she's spearheading.

They discuss the importance of professional development for teachers, the power of leadership at the school and community levels, and the ambitious goals laid out in her strategic plan. Plus, Ellen reveals the secret sauce of success found in some of South Carolina's Title 1 schools and introduces us to initiatives like the Hope Network and the CARE program.

Tune in to hear how Ellen Weaver is not just keeping her head above water, but swimming upstream to ensure every child in South Carolina is prepared for college, career, or the military.

Key Moments

00:00 Education conference featuring state superintendent Ellen Weaver.

04:21 Investing in teacher training to improve literacy.

09:18 Projects to support mental health and education.

10:03 Supporting teachers, visiting schools, leading by example.

14:22 Education key to rebuilding hope in communities.

18:15 Social media age restriction and civic values.

20:11 South Carolina, known as Palmetto state.

Connect with Ellen Weaver

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-weaver-53a3a269/

Website: https://ellenweaver.com/