Season 3, Episode 5 | Dr. Brian Thurman, Ramona Unified School District

Welcome to Season 3, Episode 5 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."  

Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another great conversatio, this time featuring Dr. Brian Thurman, Superintendent of Ramona Unified School District.  

Here's a summary of the great conversation: 


Pathways and Personalized Learning

• Dr. Thurman talks about the community's support and the expertise within the district.
• The conversation shifts to the district's focus on technology and personalized learning.
• Dr. Thurman shares the success of their Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, including a national gold medal win in the Concepts of Engineering category.
• The district's efforts to appeal to students' interests and provide opportunities for college, career, and work are highlighted.

Early Career and Educational Journey

• Dr. Thurman recounts his early career influences, including key teachers who supported him.
• He shares his academic background, including a sociology major and his early experiences in public schools.
• Dr. Thurman discusses his decision to become an educator and his journey through student teaching and becoming a principal.
• The conversation covers his 12 years as a principal and the impact of dynamic superintendents on his career.

Technology and Personalized Learning in Practice

• Dr. Thurman elaborates on the District's CTE pathways, including culinary, engineering, and construction.
• He highlights the success of their students in national competitions and the hard work of the staff.
• The discussion includes the District's efforts to provide students with options and opportunities for the future.
• Dr. Thurman mentions the partnership with Palomar Community College for dual enrollment programs.

Community Support and Partnerships

• Dr. Thurman discusses the community's positive feedback and support for the district's pathways.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of rural districts and the district's efforts to pass a bond for facility improvements.
• Dr. Thurman emphasizes the importance of community trust and the potential benefits of passing a small bond to raise capital for important District projects and needs
• The discussion includes the district's partnerships with local businesses and the importance of internships and externships for students.

Challenges and Future Goals

• Dr. Thurman talks about the financial challenges faced by the district, including the need for facility upgrades.
• The conversation covers the district's efforts to navigate the budget cliff and the importance of community support.
• Dr. Thurman highlights the district's focus on cybersecurity and the steps taken to protect data and systems.
• The discussion includes the potential for a cybersecurity pathway and the importance of preparing students for the future.

Personal Interests and Final Thoughts

• Dr. Thurman shares his personal interests, including surfing and playing drums.
• The conversation includes his family's annual trip to Mexico Beach and their unplugged experience.
• Dr. Thurman expresses gratitude for the partnership with Schools First Federal Credit Union and the support from the community.
• The episode concludes with a thank you to the sponsors and a reminder of the challenges and opportunities ahead for the district.

Thank you for unplugging and listening to Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and share with your colleagues! 

The Presenting Sponsor for Season 3 of Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged is Schools First Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California serving school employees and their families since 1934.  Please learn more about Schools First Federal Credit Union by visiting https://www.schoolsfirstfcu.org/