In this episode, we explore the importance of creating well-rounded school environments and fostering investment in extracurricular activities. Our guest, an experienced educator and speaker, Patrick Erwin, shares insights into why schools should focus on more than just academics. We discuss the role of extracurricular programs in student development, effective strategies for implementing and promoting these activities, and the impact they have on student engagement and performance. Additionally, we explore the challenges schools face in expanding their extracurricular offerings, the importance of parental and community involvement, and how to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all students. Tune in for valuable advice and resources to help school leaders build a supportive and upgraded educational experience.

In this episode, we focus on supporting students with autism and special needs beyond graduation, exploring innovative approaches to help them succeed in post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Our guest, Dr. Ashley Johnessee, Principal of Haw Creek Elementary, shares her insights on creating inclusive environments that empower students with diverse abilities. With real-life success stories and practical strategies, Dr. Johnessee discusses best practices for ensuring students with special needs are well-prepared for life after school. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or advocate, this episode offers valuable guidance on fostering opportunities for all students to thrive.

In this episode, we explore the impact of individualized education on student learning and development. Our guest, Kaleb Wachala, shares his personal journeys with personalized learning, discussing creating opportunities for students to explore career paths and gain real-world experience. He discusses the challenges and rewards of launching such initiatives and offers practical strategies for tailoring instruction to diverse student needs. In this episode, Andrew and Gina reflect on the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders in the Individualized Education Program process, ensuring each student's success. Join us as we uncover the power of personalized education with Kaleb in unlocking student potential.

Follow him on Instagram @the_tattooed_teach or email him at kwachala@roeschoolworks.org.

In this episode, we explore the concept of "Splashes and Waves," drawing inspiration from young elephants raised without role models who splashed water to avoid seeing their reflections. This metaphor highlights the tendency of some leaders to shy away from self-reflection, mirroring unhealthy behaviors. We discuss the crucial role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence in effective leadership, featuring stories from experienced teachers and school leaders who have embraced these principles. By looking inward and understanding their own thoughts and emotions, these leaders have fostered positive changes in their educational environments. Join us as we dive into the importance of facing the mirror and cultivating a culture of growth and accountability in schools.

The value in this podcast comes from our Habitudes Curriculum: a unique, image-based learning system that helps young adults develop leadership habits. Each image sparks conversations and real-life insights, creating memorable experiences and lasting leadership skills. Find out for here.

Do you know an educational leader who has made a remarkable impact? We want to hear their story! As we prepare for Season 2 of our podcast, we’re looking for inspiring stories of educational leaders who have transformed schools, empowered students, or created positive change in their communities.Submit your EPIC story here.

In this episode of School on a Mission, co-hosts Gina Watts and Andrew McPeak are joined by special guest Kevin Gilmore to explore the transformative power of mentorship in shaping the learning and development of school leaders. They dive into how mentors can profoundly impact personal growth and career aspirations, sharing inspiring stories that highlight the ripple effects of supportive relationships in education. Through their discussion, listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of fostering mentorship to empower and elevate the next generation of educational leaders.

About Kevin Gilmore
Coach G (Kevin Gilmore) is the solopreneur of The Art of 3 LLC Speaker, Facilitator, and Coach Business (AO3). He is a certified life coach with a niche focus as a Certified Personal Development Coach (CPDC). He also specializes as a Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach (CEIC). Coach G is a certified speaker and trained facilitator with a background in trauma-informed care and a DISC Assessment Certification. He has served for over two decades with individuals, students, and families who drive his deep passion to support others in their growth, development, and empowerment.

In his own journey of personal development, Coach G is committed to lifelong learning and to perfecting his craft by digging deep into his own development and growth. He loves to read, write, and open himself up to his creative and innovative mindset to develop content, ideas, and art that inspires others. As a lifelong learner, he is an active member of various teams, including The John Maxwell Team, Certified Coaching Alliance Affiliation CCA, and ASC Business Strategies. He also sits on a board and works as a community collaborator in his career.

Currently, he is a faculty member for Youth Certification and serves as chair of the Youth Advisory Council with Maxwell Leadership.

Through AO3, Coach G provides individual or group coaching, facilitation, and speaking workshops. He facilitates the art of exploring, evolving, and empowering each of his clients to help catapult them into growth both personally and emotionally. Coach G wants his AO3 family to know that being intentional about growth for your personal development and emotional intelligence will bring about change in various areas/roles in your life.

In this episode, Gina and Andrew will take a closer look at the widespread problem of teacher burnout and how it affects both the well-being of educators and their ability to be effective in the classroom. We'll dive into the different reasons why school leaders and teachers experience burnout, including the heavy demands of their jobs, the constant pressure to meet expectations, and the emotional toll that comes with caring for students day in and day out. We aim to provide listeners with useful insights and practical tips on how to identify the signs of burnout, address the underlying causes, and how school leaders can support their staff, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable approach to teaching and leading.

Data Dive Source: Teacher Burnout Statistics: Why Teachers Quit in 2024 By Devlin Peck

In this episode, Andrew, Gina, and Tim Elmore dive into the transformative power of equipping individuals with essential life skills. Joined by acclaimed author and leadership expert Tim Elmore, listeners explore how intentional schools make a difference in their communities, shaping academic success and fostering strong connections and values. From visionary leadership to innovative practices, discover the secrets behind these schools' success and how they become the heartbeat of their communities. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful discussions, Tim Elmore offers valuable insights and practical strategies to unlock school leaders' full potential and pass it to the students they lead.

Audio Correction: First Episode will drop on August 15th, 2024!

Welcome to "School on a Mission," a new podcast co-hosted by Andrew McPeak and Gina Watts, dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of education beyond just grades and GPAs. This podcast is designed for educational leaders who view their schools as opportunities to impact the lives of everyone in the building—students, faculty, staff—as well as the broader community. Each episode will offer fresh perspectives and practical insights on creating a mission-driven school culture, with topics ranging from building strong school communities to innovative teaching methods and fostering personal growth. Join us as we embark on this journey to make schools places of transformation and inspiration. Our first episode drops on August 15th, so subscribe now to "School on a Mission" wherever you get your podcasts and be part of this exciting mission!