Season 4, Episode 3 | Superintendents, Rich Newman And Mark Stevens Discuss Leadership Stories From Small Rural Schools

Welcome to Season 4, Episode 3 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 discussions with Rich Newman and Mark Stevens, superintendents of Alpine Union School District and Borrego Springs Unified School District, respectively, who discussed their journeys and challenges. Newman highlighted his 10-year tenure, emphasizing the importance of community connections and innovative programs like engineering labs. Stevens shared his legacy in education, noting the impact of removing phones from campuses to improve mental health and behavior. Both stressed the significance of continuous learning and growing local talent. They also underscored the importance of mental health support, with Newman mentioning increased social workers and wellness coaches, and Stevens noting reduced bullying post-phone ban.

Guest Introduction and Initial Questions

• Drew Schlosberg introduces Dr. Rich Newman, superintendent of the Alpine Union School District, and Dr. Mark Stevens, superintendent of Borrego Springs Unified School District.
• Dr. Leighangela Brady, chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation, is introduced as the co-host.
• Dr. Rich Newman shares his journey from struggling to read in fourth grade to becoming a superintendent, inspired by a teacher named Mrs. Kapka.
• Dr. Newman emphasizes his commitment to empowering all students and being a champion for them.

Challenges and Rewards of Being a Superintendent

• Dr. Newman discusses the transition from a large school district to a small one, highlighting the nimbleness and personal connections in small districts.
• Dr. Mark Stevens shares his background, mentioning his parents' influence and the legacy of education in his family.
• Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about the preparation for being a superintendent, with Dr. Stevens emphasizing the importance of taking on responsibility and continuous learning.
• Dr. Newman adds that being grounded in one's values is crucial for navigating the challenges and politics of the role.

Relationship with School Boards

• Dr. Newman discusses the importance of building a professional relationship with the school board, emphasizing clarity on roles and mutual respect.
• Dr. Stevens agrees, stating that a supportive board is essential for a superintendent to do their job effectively.
• Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about the impact of the pandemic on their roles, with Dr. Newman highlighting the increased focus on mental health and wellness.
• Dr. Stevens mentions the positive impact of removing phones from campuses on student behavior and mental health.

Personal Stories and Interests

• Dr. Mark Stevens shares his family life, including his five children and their various activities.
• Dr. Rich Newman talks about his avid gardening as a form of therapy and his wife's role as an assistant principal.
• Dr. Newman also mentions his dream of opening a coffee shop for students with special needs.
• The conversation highlights the personal and professional balance that these superintendents maintain.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• Dr. Leighangela Brady asks about their decision to stay in their current districts, with both Dr. Newman and Dr. Stevens emphasizing the deep connections and sense of purpose they have in their communities.
• Dr. Newman and Dr. Stevens discuss the importance of growing their own leaders and the unique culture of small districts.
• The show concludes with Drew Schlosberg thanking the guests and co-host, and providing information about the sponsors and the podcast series.

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 4 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/