Unlock 360: An LTL Podcast

In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Devoud sits down with David Ritchey, Superintendent of Lamesa Independent School District in rural West Texas. David shares how his district is leading with heart and innovation—creating equitable opportunities through technology, strong Tier 1 instruction, and community-rooted career pathways.Together, Wendy and David explore how Lamesa ISD is transforming teaching and learning by pairing high expectations with genuine care. From providing iPads for every student to launching a P-TECH early-college model that graduates students with certifications or degrees, David’s story reveals how a clear vision and a culture of belonging can change outcomes for an entire community.Key Moments 00:00 Overcoming tech glitches and getting started00:51 Innovating with Apple technology in every classroom03:02 Every student—Pre-K through 12—has an iPad05:17 Leading through visibility and relationships07:11 Strengthening Tier 1 instruction district-wide10:38 Launching P-TECH for college and career pathways13:53 Ensuring every graduate leaves with opportunity and choice17:52 Building homegrown leadership and teacher pipelines27:21 Coaching administrators to coach teachers34:33 Leading with empathy, consistency, and careWhy You’ll Love This Episode This is a powerful look at what’s possible when small districts dream big. Superintendent Ritchey shows how to turn vision into action—through Tier 1 excellence, authentic relationships, and opportunities that last long after graduation. If you believe leadership starts with love and ends with impact, this one’s for you.Connect with Superintendent David Ritchey Website: https://www.lamesaisd.net/Follow Us Wendy York Devoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360° Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.
S.4 | Ep. 6: Building Opportunity on Purpose with Superintendent David Ritchey
In today's episode, "Unlock 360 with Charles Gideon," host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Principal Charles Gideon of Castleberry Elementary in Castleberry ISD. Principal Gideon shares the journey that led him from the classroom to school leadership and his pride in building a culture of excellence and fun at "DFW's favorite elementary school."From winning community awards and championing the school's spirited traditions to tackling the real challenges of literacy and mathematics instruction, Principal Gideon opens up about the strategies that drive student and teacher success. You'll hear about intentional PLC time, staff retention secrets, and how his team thrives on both high expectations and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Plus, the conversation touches on supporting teachers, fostering leadership among staff, and the importance of nurturing opportunities for every student.Key Moments03:53 Winning Streak for Our School 08:29 Early Literacy Initiative Success 10:54 AI Tools Enhancing Classroom Performance 14:19 Answering Prompts for Higher Scores 20:23 Collaboration, Efficacy, Retention Focus 21:20 Teacher Retention Boosts Student Success 26:49 Building Classroom Leadership Culture 28:34 Honoring Tony Eugene YorkIn MemoriamTony Eugene York June 27, 1948 – October 21, 2023 Tony attended Castleberry Elementary and Irma Marsh before graduating from Castleberry High School. For more information about Tony’s life, service, and loved ones, please visit: https://www.biggersfh.com/obituaries/Tony-Eugene-York?obId=29667255Why You’ll Love This EpisodePrincipal Gideon opens the curtain on how Castleberry Elementary became “DFW’s favorite” while doing the hard work that moves learning: revamping early literacy with a structured block, using PLCs four days a week to plan tightly and act on data, and building a culture where high expectations and teacher retention go hand in hand. He shares concrete, classroom-ready moves like teaching students to restate prompts and use text evidence and how thoughtful use of AI feedback tools can sharpen writing instruction without replacing teacher judgment. It’s fun (spirit sticks and pep rallies!) and deeply practical (growth tracking, vertical alignment, and leadership pipelines). If you care about turning vision into daily habits that lift every student, this conversation will hit home.Connect with Charles GideonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-gideon-46506a18a Website: https://www.castleberryisd.net/Follow Us:Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.
S.4 | Ep. 5: Principal Gideon’s Path to Leading DFW’s Favorite Elementary at School
In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Stacey Cohen, Principal of Mesa View Elementary School, in Grand Junction, Colorado. Stacey shares how her team moved from the brink of turnaround to sustained performance—and most recently, national recognition as a Blue Ribbon School—by pairing research-based practice with a culture of dignity, partnership, and “leadership for all.”Together, Wendy and Stacey explore how Mesa View is deepening Tier 1 instruction, building daily SEL routines that stick, and redesigning student supports to keep learners connected. They also unpack how authentic family engagement and shared leadership fuel long-term improvement and community trust.Key Moments01:07 Inheriting a strong culture amid performance decline03:02 Moving from priority improvement toward success04:51 Six high-impact practices that shifted outcomes10:22 Replacing hallway removals with cozy corners16:01 Building daily SEL lessons and community circles19:22 Tackling chronic absenteeism after the pandemic23:29 From involvement to true family engagement26:20 Reimagining kindergarten onboarding27:50 Launching FLYT Club for families31:20 Empowering teachers through shared leadership Why You’ll Love This EpisodeThis is a grounded, inspiring story of turnaround done right. Stacey shows how a school can achieve lasting success—without new funding—through high-impact instruction, inclusion, and trust. If you’re passionate about leadership, systems change, and culture that uplifts everyone, this episode delivers powerful, practical takeaways.Connect with Principal Stacey Cohen Website: https://mesaview.d51schools.org/Follow Us Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/ About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.
S.4 | Ep. 4: Leading Change with Heart & Evidence with Stacey Cohen
In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Dr. Brett Geithman, Superintendent of the Larkspur-Corte Madera School District (LCMSD) in Marin County, California. Brett shares how his team is bringing their Vision 2036 to life—linking bold, future-focused goals with actionable systems that support every student and staff member.Together, Wendy and Brett explore how LCMSD is leading thoughtful innovation in K–8 education—from creating an AI handbook and staff training model to redefining what it means to align a district’s Portrait of a Graduate, Adult, and System. They also discuss how community engagement, strategic planning, and a commitment to equity guide the district’s daily work and long-term direction.Key Moments07:21 Building an AI handbook and districtwide guidelines08:03 Launching an AI Lead model and bite-size professional learning11:50 Creating a “Portrait of an Adult” to align staff growth with student outcomes12:59 Embedding AI and innovation into the district’s strategic plan14:34 Connecting systems, staff, and vision through clear reporting metrics18:06 Why LCMSD expanded its vision after the pandemic20:33 Forecasting change and leading proactively as a superintendent24:46 Closing equity gaps through annual audits and actionable dataWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode highlights what it really looks like to turn vision into action. Dr. Geithman offers a transparent look at how a district can lead innovation without losing its focus on people—building systems that evolve with technology while staying rooted in values, inclusion, and community. If you’re passionate about leadership, equity, and designing future-ready schools, this conversation will spark ideas you can bring back to your own system.Connect with Dr. Brett Geithman Website: https://www.lcmschools.orgFollow Us Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360° Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.
S.4 | Ep. 3: Turning Vision into Action with Dr. Brett Geithman
In this episode of Unlock 360°, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Scott Kilgore, Superintendent of Ingleside ISD. From classroom teacher and coach to district leader, Scott shares his journey and the lessons that shaped his leadership.Together, Wendy and Scott explore how Ingleside ISD is cultivating a “District of Champions” culture, balancing academic rigor with career and technical education, and embracing innovation like virtual reality labs to spark curiosity in students. They also dive into systems for continuous improvement, strategies for navigating new challenges like AI-scored writing assessments, and the importance of building trust and empowering staff.Key Moments06:15 Leadership lessons from the classroom to the superintendency 08:06 Balancing academics with CTE and industry partnerships13:07 Virtual reality labs for middle school exploration21:23 Finding balance with AI in the classroom27:28 Building systems for continuous improvement32:45 Strengthening writing instruction under AI scoring34:55 Supporting discipline through root-cause solutionsWhy You’ll Love This EpisodeThis episode highlights how a small Texas district is making bold moves to prepare every student for success. Scott’s story is both practical and inspiring—a reminder that strong systems, innovative approaches, and a supportive culture can transform learning. If you’re passionate about leadership, continuous improvement, and preparing students for college, career, and life, this conversation will resonate.Connect with Scott KilgoreLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-kilgore-6b3778a4/ Website: https://www.inglesideisd.orgFollow Us:Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time.Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.
S.4 | Ep. 2: Building a District of Champions with Scott Kilgore
Welcome to Season 4 of Unlock 360°: An LTL Podcast! In our very first episode of the new season, host Wendy York Davoud sits down with Lindsey Hawvermale, the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Comanche ISD. With over two decades of experience, Lindsey shares her unique path from the science classroom to district leadership, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of ensuring equitable opportunities for all students.Together, Wendy and Lindsey unpack strategies for vetting and implementing high-quality curriculum, navigating the complexities of supporting English learners, and piloting innovative approaches in mathematics instruction. Lindsey also delves into the impact of the Teacher Incentive Allotment program, transforming teacher retention and student growth, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how Comanche ISD is building a collaborative, supportive culture for educators and learners alike.Key Moments03:34 Math Curriculum Challenges 07:41 Bluebonnet Training Revelation 12:38 "Empowering Students and Teachers" 15:15 "Mastering Connection for Student Growth" 17:31 Coaching and Teaching Simultaneously 23:23 Supporting Teachers in Hard Tasks 26:48 Teacher-Led Curriculum Development 29:59 Educational Project Management Overview 32:55 Integrating Writing Across Curriculum 35:43 Collective Teacher Efficacy Challenges 37:58 Streamlined Education System Benefits Why You’ll Love This Episode This episode will resonate with anyone working to build coherent systems that support, not stifle, teachers and students. Lindsey brings both warmth and wisdom as she details how her district is strategically investing in people, data, and design to create meaningful, equitable learning experiences. If you're passionate about growing teacher leaders, curating sustainable curriculum systems, or building a culture that says "we do hard things together", this conversation is for you.Connect with Lindsey Hawvermale: Website: https://www.comancheisd.netFollow Us: Wendy York Davoud LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryork Lead Teach Learn 360 Website: https://leadteachlearn360.com Lead Teach Learn 360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-teach-learn-360%C2%B0/About Unlock 360°Unlock 360° is the podcast where school leaders and instructional trailblazers reveal how they’re turning bold vision into sustainable action. Powered by Lead Teach Learn 360, each episode brings you inside the systems, strategies, and human stories that drive school improvement—one leader, one learner, one breakthrough at a time. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Unlock 360° for more conversations.
S.4 | Ep. 1: Empowering Teachers and Students Through Collaborative Curriculum Design
Welcome to Season 3 of Unlock 360: An LTL Podcast! In this episode, host Dr. Graham Sweeney is joined by Wendy York Davoud, Founder of LTL360, and Dr. Joe Lopez, Superintendent of Greenville ISD, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities facing mid-sized school districts. Together, they discuss how fostering a culture of ownership and collaboration can empower educators to improve academic outcomes.Dr. Lopez shares insights into his district’s innovative Superintendent Advisory Councils and the importance of listening to students, parents, and educators to drive meaningful change. Wendy highlights how LTL360’s data-driven approach helps leaders across all levels work together to create impactful solutions. Tune in to hear how Greenville ISD is building a legacy of leadership and success through collaboration and strategic action.To learn more about LTL360 visit https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/ and to check out what’s going on at Greenville ISD, visit https://www.greenvilleisd.com/Discover The 4 Key Steps You MUST Take Now to Stop Your Educators from Leaving here: https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/the4keystepsTime Stamps & Show Notes: (00:00 - 02:35) Introduction (02:36 - 05:32) Struggles of Mid-Sized Districts (05:33 - 08:01) Being Directly Involved (08:02 - 12:10) Common Problems Today (12:11 - 16:21) Shifting to a Culture of Ownership (16:22 - 20:24) The Role of Data in Academic Outcomes (20:25 - 23:13) Big Accomplishments in Greenville ISD (23:14 - 25:16) LTL360’s Legacy (25:17 - 26:34) Empowering Leaders Across All Campuses (26:35 - 27:06) Closing
S.3 | Ep. 5: Shaping Greenville ISD’s Legacy
Welcome to Season 3 of Unlock 360: An LTL Podcast! In this episode, host Rick Fernandez sits down with LTL 360 Founder Wendy York Davoud and Marlin ISD Superintendent Dr. Darryl Henson to discuss the importance of strong leadership in education. They explore how to build long-lasting, inclusive systems that are tailored to the needs of each school district and ensure equitable opportunities for all students.Wendy and Dr. Henson highlight the challenges of balancing urgent change with sustainable growth and emphasize the value of tenacity in driving positive outcomes. Dr. Henson shares his passion for the education profession and how loving the work can create an infectious environment for students and staff alike. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on creating a better future for our schools. Make sure to leave a like, comment, and subscribe!To learn more about LTL360 visit https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/ and to check out what’s going on at Marlin ISD, visit https://www.marlinisd.org/Discover The 4 Key Steps You MUST Take Now to Stop Your Educators from Leaving here: https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/the4keystepsHost: Dr. Rick Fernandez Guests: Wendy York Davoud, Founder, LTL360, Inc., USA Dr. Darryl Henson, Superintendent, Marlin ISDTime Stamps & Show Notes: (00:00 - 01:49) Introduction (01:50 - 07:31) Instilling Strong Leadership in Education (07:32 - 10:33) Building Long-Lasting and Inclusive Systems (10:34 - 15:14) Balancing Leadership with a Dynamic Leader (15:15 - 21:49) Indicators of Growth (21:50 - 27:10) Tailoring Needs for Each School District (27:11 - 28:06) Closing
S.3 | Ep. 4: Instilling Strong Leadership in Schools
Welcome to Season 3 of Unlock 360: An LTL Podcast! In this episode, host Rick Fernandez sits down with LTL360 Founder Wendy York Davoud and Gregory-Portland Superintendent Michelle Cavazos. They discuss the critical need for developing and empowering educational leaders through one-on-one and team coaching. Stay tuned until the end to hear their discussion on how we can evolve to provide a better education for our children.To learn more about LTL360 visit https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/ and to check out what’s going on at Gregory-Portland ISD, visit https://www.g-pisd.org/Discover The 4 Key Steps You MUST Take Now to Stop Your Educators from Leaving here: https://www.leadteachlearn360.com/the4keystepsHost: Dr. Rick Fernandez Guests: Wendy York Davoud, Founder, LTL360, Inc., USA Dr. Michelle Cavazos, Superintendent, Gregory-Portland ISDTime Stamps & Show Notes: (00:00 - 01:02) Introduction (01:03 - 03:45) The Need for Leadership in Schools (03:46 - 07:09) Reading Your Team (07:10 - 10:56) High-Performing vs Low-Performing Leaders (10:57 - 12:33) How to Keep Evolving in Education (12:34 - 13:15) Closing
S.3 | Ep. 3: Empowering Leaders in Gregory-Portland ISD
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