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: Superinte