Welcome to Season 3, Episode 3 of "Future Pathways: Superintendents Unplugged."
Sponsored by a champion of schools, school leaders, teachers and employees - SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union - we have another incredible episode, this time featuring not one, not two, but THREE Superintendents in studio. Drew Schlosberg was joined by Dr. Leighangela Brady, National School District, Dr. Jennifer Burks, Solana Beach School District, and Dr. Tim Baird, former Superintendent for Encinitas Union School District and currently the Board Chair of the Classroom of the Future Foundation.
Here's a summary of the great conversation:
The discussion features three Superintendents—Dr. Leighangela Brady, Dr. Jennifer Burks, and Dr. Tim Baird—discussing their efforts to integrate sustainability and environmental literacy into their school districts. Dr. Brady highlights National School District's initiatives, including becoming the first elementary-only heart-safe district and focusing on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Burks shares Solana Beach School District's projects, such as outdoor learning hubs and partnerships with UCSD. Dr. Baird introduces SD3, a network aiming to support local school districts in sustainability efforts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and leadership. The conversation underscores the benefits of sustainable practices in education, including cost savings and student engagement.
Sustainability and SD3 Network
Dr. Tim Baird introduces the concept of SD3 (San Diego School Districts and Sustainability and Diversity) and its goals to support sustainability efforts in local school districts.
Tim explains the three levels of networks: local, state, and national, and the benefits of connecting districts for technical expertise and support.
Jennifer Burks shares Solana Beach School District's sustainability initiatives, including outdoor learning hubs, partnerships with UCSD, and food audits with local organizations.
Leighangela Brady discusses National School District's efforts to integrate sustainability into their systems, such as low-flush toilets, food sorting, and student engagement in real-world problems.
Challenges and Future of SD3 Network
Jennifer Burks highlights the need for interdisciplinary units and funding as key challenges.
Leighangela Brady discusses the potential pushback from the new political landscape and the importance of a strong network for support.
Tim Baird emphasizes the need for leadership buy-in and the potential for SD3 to serve as a model for other regions.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps for SD3
Jennifer Burks expresses excitement about the possibilities of connecting learning to real-life experiences and the potential for collaboration with neighboring districts.
Lee Angela Brady looks forward to building a network and learning from other districts' efforts.
Tim Baird discusses the importance of spreading sustainable practices and the need for support from state and national levels.
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/
Season 3, Episode 3 | Sustainability and Environmental Literacy | Dr. Tim Baird, Dr. Leighangela Brady, Dr. Jennifer Burks | Future Pathways Superintendents Unplugged podcast - Listen or read transcript on Metacast