TransformED with STEP Up
Welcome to TransformED, the podcast designed for instructional leaders and educators ready to drive real change in their schools. If you're looking for innovative ways to transform education, you're in the right place. Each episode delves into key issues affecting education, identifying flaws in traditional systems and exploring effective strategies for leaders. From tackling complex challenges to discovering groundbreaking approaches, we provide the tools needed for meaningful school transformation.
Episodes
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, Valorie Montgomery and Sue Herrera sit down with Michael Gonzalez, Executive Director of the Rural Schools Innovation Zone (RSIZ). With more than 30 years in education, Michael leads a groundbreaking collaboration among rural districts in South Texas—one that’s creating real-world, high-impact opportunities for students through shared academies and innovative career pathways...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, hosts Valorie Montgomery and Sue Herrera welcome Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth—a nationally recognized educator, author, and edtech consultant—who helps teachers navigate the evolving landscape of education. Dr. Poth, who teaches Spanish and STEAM in Pennsylvania, shares her insights on emerging technologies such as AI, VR, and cybersecurity, making them approachable and practical ...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, hosts Valorie Montgomery and Rebecca Kessler sit down with David Williams, principal of Hancock Place High School, to talk about what it really means to reimagine education. David shares how his team is creating a student-centered learning environment through competency-based education, flexible scheduling, and a strong school culture. His work shows what’s possible when edu...
In this episode of TransformEd with StepUp, hosts Valorie Montgomery and Shauna Stephanchick sit down with Sarah Kennedy, a public health professional and community development field specialist at the University of Missouri Extension. With over 15 years of experience in data, evaluation, and systems change, Sarah shares how MU Extension is bridging the gap between education, business, and community to strengthen early...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, Dr. Sabba Quidwai (author of How Design Thinking Makes You Irreplaceable in a World with AI) joins us to explore how schools can embrace AI without losing the human connection that makes learning powerful.
Dr. Quidwai shares why innovation begins with empathy, not technology, and how design thinking helps leaders uncover real problems before rushing to solutions. She challeng...
In this episode, we sit down with one of the most influential thinkers in modern education—Jay McTighe, co-author of the landmark Understanding by Design framework. With more than 5 decades in the field, Jay has shaped the way educators around the globe think about curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
From his early work in gifted education to co-authoring with Grant Wiggins, Jay shares how his experiences continue...
In this episode of TransformEd with StepUp, we sit down with Dr. Mike Schmoker — former teacher, administrator, and nationally recognized author of Focus and Results Now.
Dr. Schmoker shares the disconnect he saw early in his career between teacher preparation programs and the actual needs of classrooms. He outlines three essential elements schools should prioritize above all else:
- Clear curriculum guidance — what t...
In this episode of TransformEd with StepUp, we sit down with Jan Richardson, the Guided Reading guru and author of the Next Step Forward in Guided Reading series, whose work has shaped how educators approach reading instruction across the globe. Jan shares her proven framework for small-group reading that integrates phonics, comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency into every lesson. She offers practical strategies for ...
In this episode, the StepUp team reflects on their first-ever Missouri Curriculum & Instruction Summit (MOCIS)—a conference designed to uplift, connect, and empower Missouri educators. Valorie is joined by StepUp consultants Jessica Gray, Lindsey Bond, and Sara Rayl to share key takeaways, favorite moments, and what shifted their thinking as consultants.
From inspiring keynotes to powerful breakout sessions led by ...
In this inspiring episode of TransformED with StepUp, we sit down with Christina Hocker, Director of Education at Startland, to explore how design thinking and entrepreneurial mindsets can reinvigorate classrooms and empower both students and teachers. With two decades of experience and a passion for innovation, Christina shares her journey from building a culinary program that connected students to real-world experie...
In this episode, we chat with internationally recognized author and educator Erik M. Francis (founder of Maverik Education) and a leading voice on cognitive rigor and depth of knowledge (DOK).
Erik unpacks why cognitive rigor is more than just a buzzword—it’s about the level and depth of think...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, we are joined by Mindy Hampton, Superintendent of Oak Grove School District and a seasoned leader with over 20 years in public education. Mindy shares insights into her journey in special education and her commitment to fostering a positive, high-expectation environment for both students and staff. As an advocate for women in leadership and a dedicated member of the Missouri...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, we’re excited to welcome Amanda Sheets, Director of Assessment for Farmington School District in Farmington, Missouri. Under Amanda’s leadership, the district has made impressive progress in aligning teaching practices and student learning outcomes with priority standards using StepUp’s tools and well-structured...
In the latest episode of TransformED with StepUp, part of our Meet the Mind series, we sit down with our incredible teammate, Diane, to explore the personal drive behind her work in education. Diane opens up about her "why," sharing how her own struggles with learning standards inspired her to ensure students today have the tools they need to succeed. She believes the right resources can make a world of diff...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, we’re joined by Dr. Mitch Hiser, Principal of Lewis and Clark Elementary (Liberty Public Schools) and Regional President of the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP). Known for his dedication to fostering a learner-centered culture, Dr. Hiser leads his school with a commitment to helping every student reach their potential.
Dr. Hiser shares his insights...
In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, we sit down with April Smith, accomplished author and creator of the popular Simplify Writing curriculum. April shares her transformative approach to teaching writing, designed to make instruction accessible and effective for students. Her curriculum focuses on bite-sized, differentiated lessons that empower teachers to deliver meaningful feedback and support to every studen...
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