Season 3, Episode 19 | Dr. Matt Tessier, Assistant Superintendent - Innovation, San Diego County Office of Education

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 19 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 with Dr. Matt Tessier, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation for the San Diego County Office of Education, discussing the mission of the Innovation Division housed at the Linda Vista Innovation Center (LVIC). The Division focuses on career-focused experiences for students, data analysis, and work-based learning. Tessier highlights the importance of increasing belonging and access for students, particularly those from underserved communities. He emphasizes the role of partnerships, such as with Schools First Federal Credit Union, in supporting educational initiatives. Tessier also touches on the integration of AI in education and the strategic plan approved by the Board of Education to enhance transformative learning experiences.

Introduction to Future Pathways and Superintendents Unplugged

• The show, Future Pathways Superintendents Unplugged, is described as a collaboration between Cloudcast Media, the Classroom of the Future Foundation, and the Center for Educational Innovation.
• Drew Schlosberg, provides additional details about the show and its sponsors, including School's First Federal Credit Union.
• Drew introduces Dr. Matt Tessier, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation for the San Diego County Office of Education.

Dr. Matt Tessier's Background and Role

• Dr. Tessier shares his 27-year career in education and his excitement about working for the County Office of Education.
• Drew asks about the Innovation Division, which is housed at the Linda Vista Innovation Center (LVIC).
• Dr. Tessier explains the various teams and initiatives at LVIC, including career-focused experiences, data analysis, and work-based learning.
• The relationship with the Classroom of the Future Foundation (CFF) is discussed, highlighting their support through grant funding and scholarships.

Support for Small Districts and North Star Initiative

• Dr. Tessier discusses the support provided to small districts, including technology and data processing solutions.
• The North Star initiative is introduced, emphasizing the belief that every student can achieve with the right access.
• Dr. Tessier shares his passion for increasing belonging and access for students from underserved communities.
• The success of the North Star initiative in exposing students to various career pathways is highlighted.

Expansion of Career Pathways and Innovative Work

• Dr. Tessier talks about the expansion of career pathways to different districts, including healthcare, energy, and construction.
• The success of the Chula Vista Elementary School District's career stations is mentioned.
• Dr. Tessier shares his vision for continuing to expand and improve the career pathways offered at LVIC.
• The importance of providing hands-on, collaborative experiences for students is emphasized.

Partnerships and the Role of Schools First Federal Credit Union

• Drew and Dr. Tessier discuss the importance of partnerships, particularly with Schools First Federal Credit Union.
• Dr. Tessier highlights the value of human resources and expertise brought by partners like Schools First.
• The role of Schools First in supporting the workforce and providing opportunities for students is emphasized.
• Dr. Tessier shares his belief that every student can learn with the right access and tools.

Challenges and Strategic Priorities

• Dr. Tessier discusses the challenges faced by the County Office of Education, including budget reductions and social unrest.
• The strategic plan approved by the Board of Education is introduced, focusing on increasing belonging and access, and elevating transformational learning experiences.
• Dr. Tessier emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the mission and working collaboratively with partners.
• The role of AI in education is briefly mentioned, with a focus on its potential to support staff and students.

Military Connections and Purple Star Schools

• Dr. Tessier shares his personal connection to the military and the importance of supporting military-connected students.
• The relationship with the Department of Defense and the Army is discussed, highlighting the opportunities provided to students.
• The role of the Purple Star Schools initiative in supporting military-connected students is emphasized.
• Dr. Tessier acknowledges the emotional and social challenges faced by military-connected students and the importance of providing support.

Final Thoughts and Invitation to Visit LVIC

• Dr. Tessier invites the co