Talks with Tyler ISD

Meet Caitlin Jiral, the new principal at Jack Elementary! From classroom teacher to assistant principal, Caitlin has worn many hats in education. Now, as principal, she’s focused on making a broader impact while staying grounded in what teachers and students truly need. She also shares her vision for returning to the Leader in Me program basics and how it will shape Jack Elementary’s future.

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On this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Angel Thompson, the new principal at Dixie Elementary School.

Angel opens up about her inspiring journey, from once believing college was out of reach to now leading a campus where she’s shaping the future for students every day. She shares her story, her leadership approach, and her vision for bringing students, staff, and parents together to create a thriving school communi...

In this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Kimberly Simmons, the new principal of Caldwell Arts Academy. With more than 14 years of experience in education, including the last five as Dixie Elementary's principal, Simmons brings expertise and passion to her new role. She shares how she plans to build on Caldwell's strong K–8 reputation, what excites her most about joining the school community, and her visio...

Season 5 of the Talks with Tyler ISD podcast kicks off with a warm welcome to Melanie Bush, the new principal at Austin Elementary. A proud Tyler ISD alumna, Melanie shares what it means to lead in the very community where she grew up. She talks about her commitment to being present for her staff, supporting them in the classroom, and building strong relationships. She also highlights her dedication to building trust with parents a...

In this inspiring episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Abbey Smith, our 2025 Secondary Teacher of the Year. For 14 years, Abbey has been igniting a love for science in students at Moore Middle School.

Abbey shares how her passion for science goes hand in hand with her passion for people. Her mission? To make every student feel seen, supported, and cared for, far beyond just classroom content. 

Hear how she turned a campu...

In this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Adrianna Gauna, the 2025 District Rookie of the Year and a proud Tyler High School teacher. A true hometown success story, Adrianna was born and raised in Tyler and graduated from Tyler ISD schools.

Now teaching in the district that shaped her, Adrianna shares what it’s like to return as an educator, working under Principal Claude Lane, who was once her middle schoo...

Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford joins us in this special end-of-year episode to reflect on the 2024–2025 school year. From campus celebrations and student milestones to teacher recognition and community engagement, Dr. Crawford shares the many reasons Tyler ISD has to celebrate this season. We also look at recent legislative developments that could impact public education and what they mean for our district. Plus, Dr. Crawford gi...

In this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we sit down with Dr. Bobby Markle, Principal of Caldwell Arts Academy and Tyler ISD’s Principal of the Year. Dr. Markle shares the leadership values that guide his work, how he fosters strong relationships with students, staff, and families, and what makes Caldwell’s arts-integrated K-8 environment truly unique. From earning national honors to preparing students for a future beyond high scho...

In this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, U.S. Congressman Nathaniel Moran shares his journey into public service and the passion driving his work as the Texas 1st Congressional District representative. Congressman Moran talks about the diverse makeup of his district and the importance of connecting with the next generation through educational opportunities.

During his visit to Tyler ISD, his top priority was highlighting the program...

In this episode, we sit down with Lauri Anderson, Director of Guidance and Counseling at Tyler ISD, for an important conversation about student anxiety. She dives into the root causes, the growing impact of technology and social media, and—most importantly—what parents need to know and how they can help.

This is a must-listen for parents, educators, or anyone who cares about student well-being. Tune in now! 

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In this episode, we sit down with Sheri Taylor, Executive Director of Human Resources at Tyler ISD, to discuss everything you need to know about our upcoming Teacher, Counselor, and Special Education Job Fair. Sheri shares valuable insights on how we support newly hired teachers, the opportunities available through our Teacher Incentive Allotment (TOP), and practical tips to help attendees make the most of their job fair experience...

In this Talks With Tyler ISD episode, we welcome Dr. Julie Philley, President of the University of Texas at Tyler. As a native East Texan and the first woman to lead UT Tyler, Dr. Philley shares her inspiring journey and vision for the university.

We dive into the strong partnership between UT Tyler and Tyler ISD, highlighting collaborative efforts that benefit students and educators alike. Dr. Philley discusses scholarship and reco...

In this special CTE Month episode, we sit down with Jessica Brown, Tyler ISD’s CTE Work-Based Learning Coordinator, to explore how Career & Technical Education (CTE) is preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Jessica shares insights on how local businesses can get involved, the impact of CTE internship opportunities, and the real-world experiences available to students across various career pathways. Plus, she highl...

In this episode of Talks with Tyler ISD, we welcome Meika Fallon, a second-year teacher who took a unique path to the classroom. From working as a substitute teacher to joining the HR department, Meika shares how her passion for education led her to achieve her dream of becoming a full-time teacher. She also highlights the invaluable support she receives through the Tyler ISD Beginning Teacher Program, which helps new educators bui...

New Podcast Episode Alert! Join us as Moore Middle School Principal Aubrey Ballard breaks down the difference between STEM and STEAM and dives into the MST Program at Moore Middle School! Learn how these specialized courses, including math, engineering, and technology integration, give students a competitive edge. Plus, with the application process now open, don’t miss your chance to explore this incredible opportunity! 

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In this episode of Talks With Tyler ISD, we sit down with Mina Naranjo, the dedicated principal of Birdwell Dual Language Immersion School. As enrollment season approaches, Mina highlights what makes Birdwell truly unique—a bilingual immersion environment where students develop fluency in both English and Spanish.

Mina shares how this distinctive approach benefits students academically, culturally, and socially, providing them with ...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Marty Crawford, superintendent of Tyler ISD, for an in-depth conversation about the state of the school district. He explains how statewide education issues, such as simplifying school funding and the A-F rating system, directly impact Tyler ISD.

Listeners will also hear about district celebrations, including successes in teacher staffing, academic achievements, and key curriculum priorities tha...

It’s Here! In this episode of Talks With Tyler ISD, Michael Sturrock shares his inspiring journey from classroom teacher to curriculum specialist. He reflects on his passion for teaching, how Tyler ISD recognized his potential, and the impact of the Team.One Tyler program in shaping his career. Michael also offers valuable advice for those looking to grow their careers in education. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! 

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In the latest Talks With Tyler ISD episode, Acting Chief of Tyler ISD Police, Destry Walsworth, discusses his extensive background in law enforcement. He highlights the district's proactive safety and security efforts, focusing on protecting students from dangerous activities such as vaping and fentanyl. Walsworth also addresses the growing concerns around social media threats and bullying. Additionally, he shares valuable res...