Season 3, Episode 12 | Jon Petersen, Escondido Union High School District; Dr. Luis Rankins-Ibarra, Escondido Union School District

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 12 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have an excellent episode featuring Jon Petersen, the Superintendent of Escondido Union High School District, joined by Dr. Luis Rankins-Ibarra, the Superintendent of the Escondido Union School District.

Journey and Love for the District

• Luis Rankins-Ibarra shares that he has been with the district for 11 years and loves its innovation, dedication, and caring nature.
• He praises the hardworking teachers and staff who are preparing students for high school, careers, and future readiness.
• Jon Petersen discusses his 23-year affiliation with the district, starting as a teacher in 1992 and later joining the school board.
• Jon describes his transition from the school board to superintendent, noting the familiarity with the district's governance structure and staff.

Educational Journeys and Career Paths

• Jon recounts his epiphany to become an educator during his college years, where he studied journalism and English.
• Luis shares that his third-grade teacher, Mrs. Diaz, inspired him to become a teacher, and his senior year guidance counselor helped him transition to a college-bound track.
• Both superintendents discuss the influence of their principals in encouraging them to pursue administrative roles and eventually become superintendents.
• Jon mentions his mentorship by Ron McCowan, who is now the superintendent of the Valley Center-Pauma Unified School District.

Collegiality Among San Diego County Superintendents

• Drew highlights the collegiality among San Diego County Superintendents, noting their support and collaboration.
• Luis and Jon agree, emphasizing the importance of their meetings and mutual support.
• They discuss the ease of communication and assistance within the District and with other Superintendents in the county.
• Jon mentions his participation in the podcast to showcase his new role and the support he has received from his colleagues.

Framework for the Future and Student Outcomes

• Luis introduces the Framework for the Future, which aims to make education relevant and engaging for students.
• The framework includes six attributes: financial literacy, communication, critical thinking, and more.
• Jon discusses the mission and vision of his district, which aligns with the elementary district's framework for the future.
• Both superintendents emphasize the importance of making education relevant and practical for students.

Partnerships and Community Engagement

• Luis talks about partnerships with organizations like the YMCA, Palomar Hospital, and Palomar College to provide outdoor education, swimming lessons, and medical discovery programs.
• Jon mentions the outdoor equity grant, which provides students with camping, surfing, and hiking experiences.
• Both Superintendents highlight the importance of community engagement and the role of partnerships in enhancing student experiences.
• They discuss the impact of these partnerships on students' lives and the broader community.

Project Next and Career Exploration

• Jon introduces Project Next, a partnership with a non-profit which provides career exploration and guidance for students.
• Project Next offers a "Future Center" at Escondido High School, career interest surveys, resume building, interview skills, and job shadows.
• The program aims to connect students with private sector opportunities and provide professional clothing for interviews.
• Jon emphasizes the need for volunteers and mentors to support the program's success.

Safety and Security Measures

• Luis discusses the district's safety measures, including expanded camera systems, surveillance teams, and proactive security measures.
• Jon mentions the raptor visitor management system and the implementation of Synthetix ID badges for emergency communication.
• Both Superintendents participate in quarterly safety meetings with local schools, police, and fire departments to share ideas and resources.
• They emphasize the importance of addressing social-emotional needs and providing wellness centers staffed by social workers.

Addressing Mental Health and Social-Emotional Needs

• Luis highlights the District's efforts to address mental health and social-emotional needs through parenting classes, resiliency programs, and social workers.
• Jon mentions the wellness centers at each school site, staffed by social workers to support students' mental health.
• Both Superintendents discuss the importance of