MI SoundBoard
An ongoing conversation on the current state of public education in Michigan and nationwide. Listen along as MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE invites prominent education voices from across the nation to speak about what’s happening and the possible impact on students.
Episodes
The 2025–26 school year is already off to a rocky start, with state budget delays leaving districts in limbo. In this episode of MISoundBoard, we talk with MASB Deputy Director Kent Cartwright, Ed.D., CPA, about the challenges school leaders face when funding is uncertain. Drawing on his deep experience in school finance, Kent shares practical insights on navigating budgeting obstacles and what to keep in mind ...
At MASB, one of our core missions is helping school boards work more effectively—regardless of who's at the table. A key tool in achieving that goal is the DISC assessment, a proven method for understanding behavioral styles and improving communication. In this episode, we’re joined by MASB’s own Education Programming Manager, MacKenzie Feldpausch, M.A., our in-house DISC expert. MacKenzie shares insights in...
On this episode of MISoundboard, we sit down with Doug LeFleur, Vice President of Business Development at Munetrix, to dive into the often-overlooked world of school data. What insights—and opportunities—can districts uncover when they truly invest in understanding their data?
In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're turning the tables once again. Yasmeen Youngs, the MASB Board of Directors' Member-At-Large, joins us as the interviewer rather than a guest. MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, takes the guest seat to share his personal insights on the state of public education, MASB's mission and his experiences within the association. It's a fresh perspective on the familiar vo...
AI is evolving fast—and reshaping the way we live, learn, and teach. In this episode, we welcome back Justin Bruno, AI Strategist at Michigan Virtual, to explore the latest trends in artificial intelligence and what they mean for the future of education.
In today’s often polarized climate, even school governance isn't immune to political tension. That’s why fostering civility among school board members is more important than ever. Join David Dulio, Ph.D.—political science professor and Director of the Center for Civic Engagement at Oakland University—for a thoughtful conversation with MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Together, they explore the impor...
On this episode of MI Soundboard, we dive into the most critical relationship influencing the success of any school district—the one between the board and the superintendent. Tina Kerr, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), joins MASB Executive Director Don Wotruba for a candid conversation on why this partnership must be built on trust, communicatio...
Investing in professional development is key to fostering meaningful change in education. In this episode, we’re joined by School Design Strategist Tovah Sheldon, Ph.D., from Michigan Virtual, to explore their transformative coaching program. Discover how this initiative helps district leaders ignite innovation, drive progress, and create lasting impact in their schools.
Effective onboarding for newly elected board members can mean the difference between smooth, strategic governance and dysfunction. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Horst and Amanda Love to discuss how they transformed a contentious election into a collaborative, high-functioning board in Clarkston Community Schools. Tune in to hear their journey from division to unity.
Kent ISD’s Director of Safety and Security, Sean Burns, returns to the podcast to share insights on the district’s proactive approach to school safety. Discover how reunification drills prepare schools for emergencies and why a shared language between first responders and the district is crucial for effective communication and response.
This episode of MI SoundBoard celebrates one of the annual achievements in Michigan public education. Tune in to hear from the inspiring 2025-26 Michigan High School Principal of the Year, Adam Lancto, as he shares his journey and the lasting impact he's made on the students of Grandville High School.
After every election year, MASB’s Government Relations team collaborates with members to shape a focused set of priorities for the upcoming two-year legislative session. In this episode, join Director of Government Relations Jennifer Smith as we explore how MASB members contribute to this critical decision-making process and delve into the key priorities that will guide our advocacy efforts over the next two ye...
Kick off the new year with insight and inspiration! In our regular State of the Superintendency episode, we explore the latest trends shaping Michigan’s school superintendent landscape. Join us as we sit down with Greg Sieszputowski, M.Ed., Director of Leadership Development and Executive Search Services, and Jay Bennett, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Executive Search Services. Together, we’ll discuss how school...
Our annual conversation with the Superintendent of the...
The elections are over, and you have a few new faces at the board table. What now? Our guest on this episode of MISoundBoard is none other than MASB’s own Brad Banasik to answer common questions you may have.
In this episode, we talk with Steve Colón, CEO of Bottom Line, a national organization that helps students from under-resourced communities succeed in college. Steve explains Bottom Line’s mission and shares how they support students in reaching their goals.
Since 2005, the SET SEG Foundation has been making a positive impact on Michigan students through a variety of charitable initiatives and grants. As a proud partner of the Foundation, we’re excited to welcome their Executive Director, Molly Mellema, to this episode of MI SoundBoard. Molly shares about the foundation’s current programs and talks to Don about securing funding and resources to support students acr...
In addition to the shortage of teachers, districts are also experiencing a lack of applicants for business official positions. Bob Dwan, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials, joins Don to discuss how current district employees can take proactive steps in succession plann...
AI has become a central topic in conversations about not just public education but all aspects of our lives, and it’s a discussion that’s here to stay. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Aaron Baughman, Northville Public Schools' Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, who has been...
With school board elections just around the corner, what should you be paying attention to? MASB’s Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations/Policy Brad Banasik, J.D. returns for this episode of MI SoundBoard to answer some of the most pressing questions he's been fielding and offer crucial insights to navigate this important period.
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