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In this episode of the School Rules Podcast, Dr. Jerry Burkett sits down with Isabella Choi (Founder & President) and Camille Song from the National Substance Prevention Network (NSPN). For years, school leaders have relied on top-down assemblies, scare tactics, and zero-tolerance removals to combat substance use—methods that rarely shift student culture. NSPN is pioneering a different approach: an evidence-based, student-led network that trains youth to lead honest, research-backed conversations about substance use, mental health, and peer pressure. Connect with NSPN: Website: https://thenspn.org Instagram: @TheNSPN #SchoolRulesPodcast #SchoolLeadership #SubstancePrevention #NSPN #StudentLeadership #PeerToPeer #MentalHealth #Principalship #K12Education

In this quick reaction episode of the School Rules Podcast, Dr. Jerry Burkett analyzes Texas Representative James Talarico’s education reform comments at last night’s CNN Town Hall. Episode Highlights: Fully Funding the Department of Education: Why federal Title I and IDEA dollars matter for local districts. Universal Pre-K: The long-term instructional return on early childhood investments. Teacher Pay Expansion: Addressing the educator retention crisis with real policy solutions. Dr. Burkett provides executive "Real Talk" on what it takes to turn political town hall promises into practical campus realities. Hashtags/Keywords: #EducationPolicy #PublicSchools #TeacherSalary #UniversalPreK #DepartmentOfEducation #SchoolLeadership #JamesTalarico

Welcome back to the School Rules Podcast with Dr. Jerry Burkett! In this high-yield episode, we cut through educational noise and policy confusion to bring you actionable tools for school leadership, instructional technology, and financial literacy. The Leadership Lens (Before School): Navigating the October Low & DAEP Risks Dr. Burkett addresses the seasonal strain of late September and October as classroom honeymoon phases fade and behavior referrals surge. We examine the legislative push surrounding Chapter 37 / DAEP removals, the overuse of disciplinary exile for elementary students, and why leaders must protect proactive tier-2/3 behavior systems before default-removing kids. Hallway Highlights: Sun Ridge Middle School (Socorro ISD) Shining a 60-second light on Sun Ridge Middle School in West Texas. Teacher’s Lounge: AI, EdTech & The Future of Learning with Paul McKee Paul McKee, M.Ed., co-founder of ReadingDuck.com and FreeWorksheets.com, joins Dr. Burkett to talk about the reality of AI in K-12 classrooms. We explore how teachers are actively leveraging technology, how to evaluate EdTech efficacy without overburdening staff, strategies for strengthening AI literacy among educators, and why the world needs skilled coders and critical thinkers now more than ever. After School: Normalizing Financial Literacy with Greg Junge Greg Junge, founder of Money Mindset Academy and author of "Teen Money Mindset" and "Parent Money Mindset", steps in to discuss bridging the gap between home and school when it comes to financial education. Greg breaks down why teaching money mechanics isn't enough, how to remove shame around spending, credit cards, and savings, and how parents and schools can collaborate to raise financially confident kids. Resources Mentioned:ReadingDuck: https://readingduck.comFreeWorksheets: https://freeworksheets.comMoney Mindset Academy: https://moneymindsetacademy.com#k12education #schoolleadership #edtech #financialliteracy #Principalship #aiineducation #teachersupport #school

Welcome to the kickoff episode of the 2026–2027 academic year! Host Dr. Jerry R. Burkett delivers an packed three-segment episode tackling the full spectrum of educational leadership—from systemic K-12 policy crises to cutting-edge classroom technology and doctoral student success.Segment 1: The Leadership Lens – Fort Worth ISD & State InterventionsDr. Burkett opens the season with an administrative analysis of the state intervention in Fort Worth ISD. He unpacks the real-world operational impacts of state oversight, budget deficits, and campus accountability, offering critical takeaways for K-12 leaders navigating policy shifts, fiscal cliff management, and local control.Segment 2: AI-Powered Literacy & Supporting Neurodivergent LearnersDr. Burkett sits down with David Chalk, co-founder of ReadingRoad.ai, who shares his personal journey of learning to read at age 62. They explore:-How AI is transforming reading intervention for struggling and neurodivergent learners.-Overcoming the shame and masking associated with illiteracy in K-12 classrooms.-Providing private, non-judgmental technology tools that build student confidence and reading fluency.Segment 3: Higher Ed Horizons – Demystifying the Doctorate with Dr. Cody ArvidsonIn the final segment, Dr. Burkett speaks with Dr. Cody Arvidson from Degree Solutions Group (degreesolutionsgroup.com) about her new book, "Demystifying the Doctorate: Your Guide to Survive and Thrive".Their conversation covers:-Practical strategies for doctoral students navigating the academic journey.-Managing AI ethics, literature reviews, and research integrity in higher education.-Emerging trends in post-secondary education and academic career development.#SchoolRulesPodcast #educationalleadership #k12education #highereducation #edtech #schoolleadership #literacymatters #readingintervention #aiineducation #neurodiversity #dyslexiasupport #specialeducation #Readingroad #DemystifyingTheDoctorate #doctoralstudent #phdlife #academictwitter #academicresearch #aiinresearch

In this episode of the School Rules Podcast, I blend discussions from ELDR 6433 and ELDR 5123 to explore what it means to lead with curiosity and purpose. We talk about developing a meaningful leadership philosophy, staying open to new information, and how curiosity shapes the way leaders respond to challenges. I also dive into trauma‑informed leadership, the mental health realities facing educators, and the deeper reasons teachers leave unhealthy schools and districts. This episode is a practical, honest look at the emotional and intellectual work of leading in today’s schools. Perfect for principals, aspiring leaders, and educators who want to grow with intention.

School Rules Podcast -- Summer Edition. For my ELDR 6433: Seminar in Educational Leadership Course. How do great leaders handle conflict, navigate corporate culture, and stay legally compliant without losing their team? Welcome to Episode 4 of our Leadership Series! Today we are stepping out of textbook theory and straight onto the office floor to look at the practical, day-to-day dynamics that shape real leadership. Whether you are prepping for your executive track or completing your Module 5 Leadership Philosophy assignment, this breakdown is your playbook for organizational dynamics. 👇 In this episode, we cover: The 3 Main Communication Styles: Are you Direct, Indirect, or Adaptive? Discover how your communication preferences secretly dictate how you handle workplace conflict.Culture vs. Policy: What happens when a "clan" or casual workplace culture clashes with legal obligations like Title IX, ADA, or performance documentation?Subscribe for more leadership strategy, workplace psychology, and organizational development insights! #Leadership #Management #OrganizationalCulture #ConflictResolution #SystemsThinking #ProfessionalDevelopment

Power is the currency of organizations, but how do we navigate it ethically? We stress-test abstract theories against the realities of institutional life using French and Raven’s five forms of power, Daniel Goleman’s emotional intelligence domains, and Robert Kelley’s followership styles. We also examine six distinct ethical lenses to help make your moral reasoning visible. 🎯 Special Assignment Segment: Are you working on your Ethical Leadership Case Study (Major Assignment 1)? Skip to the final segment of the episode for a concrete, 4-step strategic roadmap to help you ace the 3–5 page paper, align your analysis with your specific degree track (Higher Ed, K-12, or Nonprofit), and properly format your arguments using APA guidelines.

In this episode of the School Rules Podcast, Dr. Jerry R. Burkett tackles three of pressing issues facing K-12 leaders today. From the courtroom in Virginia to the phone pouches in your hallways, we are talking about the "Architecture of Excellence" and the courage required to lead effectively.In this episode, we dive into:⚖️ The Virginia 6-Year-Old Shooting Case & Administrator LiabilityWe break down the unprecedented legal developments following the 2023 shooting at Richneck Elementary in Newport News, Virginia. With a grand jury indicting a former assistant principal on felony child neglect, we discuss what this means for "Duty of Care" and why "The Courage to Act" is no longer just a leadership mantra—it's a legal necessity.📱 Cell Phone Bans—Do They Actually Work?Distraction-free classrooms are the goal, but the implementation is where the battle is won or lost. We look at the data behind magnetic pouches vs. locker storage and how to handle the inevitable parent pushback without losing your campus culture.🍎 Interview with "The Classroom Management Guy" – Professor ZestA deep-dive conversation with Professor Zest on the "Systems of Success." We move past the theories and get into the high-leverage moves that help teachers reclaim their instructional time and reduce office referrals.🔗 Connect with Professor Zest: Visit ProfessorZest.comYouTube: @theclassroommanagementguyKey Takeaways for School Leaders:The legal definition of "Felony Neglect" in a school setting.Why a cell phone policy is only as strong as your weakest link.Professor Zest’s "3 Pillars of Proactive Management."Connect with the School Rules Podcast:📸 Facebook: @SchoolRulesPodcast🐦 Twitter/X: @DrJerry_Burkett📺 YouTube: @SchoolRulesPodcastAbout the Host:Dr. Jerry R. Burkett is an Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership, providing "Real Talk" for educators, principals, and school leaders who are ready to build the Architecture of Excellence.#SchoolRulesPodcast #EducationLaw #ClassroomManagement #CellPhoneBan #SchoolSafety #PrincipalLife #ProfessorZest #Schoolleadership #K12Leadership Music Credit: Deep Abstract Ambient - Purpose by ummbrella

In this episode, we dive into: 🎙️ Segment 1: Commitment vs. Compliance Are your staff meetings "death by PowerPoint," or are they fueling the mission? Dr. Jerry R. Burkett discusses how to move beyond "checking the boxes" of mandates and regulations to inspire a team that leads with their "Why." 🎬 Segment 2: The First Follower & "Wicked" Using the cultural phenomenon of "Wicked," we explore the "First Follower" concept. Why is the second person to join a movement just as important as the leader? We break down how leadership is a team sport and why you need those key "first followers" to spark true change on a K-12 campus. 🔬 Segment 3: STEM Education with Dr. Michaine Ashley An insightful interview with Dr. Michaine Ashley on the current state of STEM. We discuss how to make STEM accessible, the importance of equity in technical education, and how school leaders can support a robust STEM curriculum without being experts in the field themselves. Key Takeaways for School Leaders: How to conduct a "Why Audit" for your semester reset. Leadership lessons from Elphaba and Glinda on building momentum. Actionable steps for strengthening your campus STEM program. #EducationalLeadershipLinks to an external site. #SchoolRulesPodcastLinks to an external site. #STEMeducationLinks to an external site. #WickedLinks to an external site. #FirstFollowerLinks to an external site. #SchoolCultureLinks to an external site. #K12EducationLinks to an external site. #PrincipalLifeLinks to an external site. #teachersupportLinks to an external site. Music: "Deep Abstract Ambient" - Purpose by ummbrellaCHRISTHNALLEE JEEVISUVE by Father S J Berchmans Songs

School Rules Podcast | Culture, Crisis & Communication: Leading Schools with Purpose In this powerful episode of the "School Rules Podcast", we dive deep into the systems and stories that shape our schools. Host Dr. Jerry R. Burkett explores the heartbeat of School Culture, the leadership of bilingual education, and the urgency of emergency preparedness for school campuses. 👥 Featured Guests:- Dr. Maggie Marcus, Sullivan Family Charitable Foundation We discuss the transformative impact of **bilingual education** and how language access empowers students and families. Learn more at https://sullivanfamilyfoundation.org. -Chris Joffe, Founder & CEO of Joffe Emergency Management Chris shares insights on school safety, crisis response, and how leaders can build systems of preparedness that protect and empower. Visit https://www.joffeemergencyservices.com.🏫 Topics Covered:- Building and sustaining a strong school culture - Leadership strategies for safety and crisis management - Equity in education through bilingual programming - Systems thinking and capacity-building for school leaders🔗 **Connect & Learn More:- Sullivan Family Charitable Foundation: https://sullivanfamilyfoundation.org- Joffe Emergency Management: https://www.joffeemergencyservices.com Follow & Share*#SchoolRulesPodcast #school #bilingualeducation #emergencypreparedness #leadershipineducation #education #safeschools #systemsthinking #educationalleadership Also available on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, we dive into the hot-button issue of cell phone bans in schools—what’s driving the movement, what the research says, and how it’s impacting students and teachers alike. Then we shift gears to explore what every principal should be prioritizing this school year, from instructional leadership to community-building. Finally, we look ahead to the future of education: What trends are emerging, and how can schools evolve to meet the moment? Whether you're an educator, parent, policymaker, or just passionate about learning, this episode offers grounded insights and bold questions to spark your thinking. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes that challenge the status quo and elevate the conversation around education. 📌 Topics Covered: Pros and cons of school cell phone bansLeadership moves your principal should be making nowVisionary shifts in education policy and practice👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments—what’s happening in your school? #EducationPodcast #SchoolLeadership #CellPhoneBan #FutureOfEducation #EdPolicy #InstructionalLeadership #StudentWellbeing #DigitalDistraction #TeacherTalk #EducationReform #EdChat

🚨 Big Changes Coming to the Podcast! 🚨 This week, we're shifting gears to make School Rules Podcast an even better companion to my graduate courses. 🎓 We’re diving into how leaders should respond during challenging times, offering practical strategies for staying grounded when the pressure is on. Plus, I’m sharing the top 9 lessons I learned as a school principal—the good, the tough, and the game-changing insights every leader needs. Hit play and let's get into it! 🔥 #SchoolRulesPodcast #Leadership #Education #GradSchool #PrincipalLife #LeadershipInCrisis #LessonsLearned #FutureLeaders

In this episode of the School Rules Podcast, we dive into three crucial topics for educators and school leaders:✅ Authentic Leadership: What does it really mean to lead with authenticity? We break down the key principles and how they shape meaningful leadership in schools.📚 Why Publishing Matters in Higher Education: Whether you're an aspiring scholar or a seasoned educator, publishing is more than just an academic exercise—it's a way to shape the conversation around leadership and learning.☀️ Summer Advice for Teachers & Principals: As the school year wraps up, what should educators be prioritizing? From self-care to strategic planning, I share insights to help you make the most of your summer.🎧 Tune in and get inspired to lead with purpose! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this episode helpful.#SchoolRulesPodcast #educationalleadership #leadership #highereducation #principal #teachers #school

📢 School Rules Podcast | Leadership Matters 🎙️Welcome to *School Rules Podcast*! In this episode, we tackle the complexities of leadership with thought-provoking discussions on: ✅ **The Absence of Leadership** – What happens when leadership fails? We examine the consequences of ineffective leadership and explore strategies for addressing leadership gaps. ✅ **Special Interview with Craig Randall** – The author of *Trust-Based Observations* joins us for an insightful conversation on trust, evaluation, and leadership in education. [email protected]✅ **Transformational Leadership** – How can leaders inspire real change? We break down the principles of transformational leadership and its impact on organizations. 🔥 Whether you're an educator, administrator, or leadership enthusiast, this episode delivers valuable insights you won't want to miss. 🎧 Listen, learn, and lead! Subscribe for more discussions on leadership, education, and personal growth. #Leadership #Education #TransformationalLeadership #CraigRandall #SchoolRulesPodcast #educationalvideo #school

This is a School Rules Podcast Special Episode! For this episode, Dr. Burkett discusses special topics as a guest speaker for READ 6693: Literacy, Leadership, and Policy course for Dr. JaNiece Elzy-Palmer at Texas Woman's University. In this special, we discuss Education Policy, Advocacy in Education, the Importance of Voting, and the Implications for Closing the Department of Education.