MI SoundBoard

Literacy Meets Law 26.06.2026 35m

In this episode of MISoundBoard, we sit down with Jen Saylor, Ph.D., NBCT-R, Director, and DeNesha Rawls‑Smith, M.A.Ed., Literacy Unit Manager at the Michigan Department of Education, to unpack Michigan's newest student literacy law. They break down what the legislation means for districts, how its structures support stronger literacy outcomes, and the practical steps leaders can take to ensure every student benefits. For more information about the law, visit michigan.gov/mde/services/academic-standards/literacy/k-12-literacy-and-dyslexia-law

National Advocacy 12.06.2026 33m

What's happening in Washington, D.C., that could shape the future of Michigan public schools? Don Wotruba talks with Dr. Phelton Moss, Ph.D., Managing Director of Government Relations from the National School Boards Association, about the advocacy work happening on behalf of public education nationwide and the federal issues currently affecting Michigan districts.

Bicentennial Bits & Banter 22.05.2026 31m

It's MISoundBoard's 200th episode—and we're flipping the script! In this special milestone edition, MASB Board Liaison Brooke Wooley, Ed.S., steps in as host to interview Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE. Tune in as Don reflects on 200 episodes of insights, stories, and impact—plus answers a few fun and unexpected questions along the way.

It's Time to Get On Board 08.05.2026 37m

With new school board members joining districts across Michigan this election year, now is the time to take a proactive approach to board development. In this episode, MASB's Assistant Director of Leadership Development, Debbie Stair, M.N.M.L., shares practical strategies for identifying and encouraging civic-minded individuals to step forward—those who are truly passionate about strengthening education and supporting every student's success.

The MELG Summit 2026 17.04.2026 40m

The MELG leadership team returns to the podcast to share the latest updates from their organizations and discuss how they—and their members—are preparing for the upcoming school year. In this episode, hear insights from Executive Directors Tina Kerr, Ph.D. (Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators), Wendy Zdeb (Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals), and Bob Dwan, SFO, CFO (Michigan School Business Officials) as they highlight key priorities, challenges, and opportunities ahead.

Budget Battle 27.03.2026 39m

Michigan's proposed education budget is on the table, and now all eyes are on the legislature. As school boards wait to see how the House and Senate shape—and ultimately finalize—the plan, key priorities and controversies are coming into focus. Jennifer Smith, MASB's Director of Government Relations, joins MISoundBoard to break down what's at stake—from promising highlights like free meals for all students to the ongoing debate surrounding Section 31aa.

A Slap Shot State Superintendent 13.03.2026 34m

Michigan's new State Superintendent, Glenn Maleyko, Ph.D., joins MI SoundBoard to share his vision for education in the state. Tune in to hear about his focus on improving literacy, the journey that led him to this role, and how a passion for hockey helped inspire his career in education.

Not the Solution Education Needs 27.02.2026 42m

In this special episode of MI SoundBoard, we welcome Joshua Cowen, Ph.D., Professor of Education Policy at Michigan State University, to discuss the ongoing conflict over school vouchers and their troubled track record with public schools.

Your New District Leaders 13.02.2026 44m

In his debut episode of MI SoundBoard, Assistant Director of Executive Search Services Kevin Kelly, M.Ed., joins the conversation to unpack the current landscape of superintendent leadership in Michigan's public schools. From trends in the applicant pool to strategies districts can use to look inward when a superintendent is preparing to retire, Kevin shares practical insights for navigating leadership transitions with confidence.

The Story in the Data 30.01.2026 41m

Michigan—and much of the country—is facing a growing teacher shortage. With special guest Tara Kilbride, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Education Policy Innovation Collaboration at MSU, we dive into the data to explore what's driving the issue, how schools can better retain educators, and how universities can help bring the next generation of teachers into the classroom.

Celebrate Progress 09.01.2026 40m

In this episode of MISoundBoard, we're honored to welcome Michigan Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Kimberly Carter, Ed.D., from Battle Creek Public Schools. Dr. Carter shares the visionary work that led to her nomination, highlighting the transformative programs she has implemented across the district. These initiatives are expanding opportunities, fostering equity, and empowering both students and staff to thrive.

A Trail Forward for Mental Health 12.12.2025 46m

Supporting student mental health is one of the most urgent and persistent challenges facing today's school districts—and having the right tools can make all the difference. Returning guest Lauren Kazee, Vice President of National Partnerships at the TRAILS program, joins us to discuss the innovative resources her organization is bringing to Michigan schools and how these efforts are improving the well-being of students across the state.

Leading With Support 21.11.2025 40m

The Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals has announced its 2026 Michigan High School Principal of the Year—and in this episode, we sit down with the winner, Tiela Schurman of Midland High School. Listen in as she shares her passion for building exceptional learning environments, the ways she empowers teachers to do their best work, and the leadership philosophy that drives her success.

A Belated Budget 07.11.2025 45m

After a prolonged delay, the school aid budget has finally made its way through the legislature, impacting districts across the state. Director of Government Relations Jen Smith joins us to break down the highs and lows of the budget and what districts should be preparing for in the coming fiscal year.

Beyond the Horizon: Legal Highlights from ALC 25.10.2025 42m

We're coming to you from the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference in beautiful Traverse City! One of the most anticipated ALC sessions each year is the Michigan Council of School Attorneys Fall Conference. In this episode, we're joined by MASB's Legal Counsel and Director of Labor Relations and Policy, Brad Banasik, J.D., to share highlights from the conference and offer practical advice on how your board can stay proactive and prepared.

Making Connections With Them 10.10.2025 36m

When Corey Rosser decided to lead by being his authentic self, everything changed. Now, as the 2025–26 Michigan Teacher of the Year, the North Branch Area Public Schools educator joins MISoundBoard to share how connection, honesty, and heart have shaped his journey.

Innovate to Overcome 26.09.2025 50m

As the 2025 Annual Leadership Conference approaches, we're excited to share a conversation with one of our keynote speakers who will be joining us in Traverse City. In this episode, leadership consultant and author George Couros discusses practical ways to foster innovative mindsets in public education—and how to bring everyone along on the journey.

MASB Board President Changeover 12.09.2025 29m

Executive Director Don Wotruba, CAE, sits down with MASB's newest board president, Dale Wingerd, a President's award-winning board member who serves both Clinton Community Schools and Lenawee Intermediate School District. With a lifelong passion for learning, Dale shares what he's looking forward to most this year.

An Opportunity for Every Student 22.08.2025 34m

The Michigan College Access Network joins the podcast with its Executive Director, Ryan Fewins-Bliss, to discuss how the organization works to ensure all Michigan students understand the opportunities available to them for education beyond high school, as well as the current state of college graduates in the state.

Settling Retirement 08.08.2025 39m

The long-running lawsuit against the Office of Retirement Services (ORS) over superintendent compensation may be settled, but the implications are still unfolding. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tina Kerr, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators, and Bob Schindler, attorney at Miller Johnson and legal representative in the case, to break down what the settlement means for districts. Learn what steps administrators can take now to prepare for the coming changes to superintendent retirement compensation.