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In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, Valorie Montgomery and Sue Herrera sit down with Michael Gonzalez, Executive Director of the Rural Schools Innovation Zone (RSIZ). With more than 30 years in education, Michael leads a groundbreaking collaboration among rural districts in South Texas—one that’s creating real-world, high-impact opportunities for students through shared academies and innovative career pathways.

Michael shares how the Zone came to life, what makes its model so unique, and how rural districts can work together to increase opportunities without losing their identity. From healthcare certifications to welding, drone technology, and early childhood education, RSIZ is proving that rural schools don’t have to do everything alone to offer students big possibilities.

Whether you’re listening from Missouri or anywhere else in the country, this conversation offers inspiration, practical insights, and a blueprint for rural leaders ready to collaborate, innovate, and rethink what’s possible for their students.

Resources:

The Rural School Innovation Zone

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In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, hosts Valorie Montgomery and Sue Herrera welcome Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth—a nationally recognized educator, author, and edtech consultant—who helps teachers navigate the evolving landscape of education. Dr. Poth, who teaches Spanish and STEAM in Pennsylvania, shares her insights on emerging technologies such as AI, VR, and cybersecurity, making them approachable and practical for classrooms.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Poth reflects on her journey in education and how her perspective on AI has evolved over more than seven years of hands-on experience. She offers guidance for teachers feeling overwhelmed by new tools, highlighting simple entry points and real-world examples of AI integration that enhance learning. Emphasizing the importance of student agency, social-emotional learning (SEL), and real-world readiness, she explains how technology can support—not replace—human-centered teaching.

The conversation also touches on the ethical and legal implications of AI in education, encouraging educators to stay informed and intentional. Dr. Poth concludes by sharing her outlook on the future, predicting that AI and other emerging tools will shape classrooms over the next few years by fostering creativity, curiosity, and connection.

Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth’s Website

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In this episode of TransformED with StepUp, hosts Valorie Montgomery and Rebecca Kessler sit down with David Williams, principal of Hancock Place High School, to talk about what it really means to reimagine education. David shares how his team is creating a student-centered learning environment through competency-based education, flexible scheduling, and a strong school culture. His work shows what’s possible when educators move beyond theory and take bold action to transform the student experience.

Resources:

Hancock Place

John Hattie

Simon Sinek “Start with The Why”

Tom Guskey