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Swimming Upstream

Tom Luna

Swimming Upstream host Tom Luna, is a former school board member was privileged to serve as a Senior Advisor to US Sec of Education Rod Paige. He also served for eight years as Idaho's State Superintendent of Public Instruction. During that time, he was the President of the Council of Chief State School Officers.

On his podcast, Swimming Upstream, he visits with courageous leaders who challenge the prevailing tide and inspire all of us to swim against the current.

Let’s jump in.

About Our Host
Tom Luna was elected Idaho State Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2006 and served two terms during which Idaho passed arguably the most comprehensive education reform laws in the country. While serving as State Superintendent, Tom was elected President of the Council of Chief State School Officers, an organization made up of all 50 state chiefs. In 2009 Tom was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Education to the National Assessment Governing Board.

Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-luna-79045716/

View our Full Lineup of Shows: https://www.strategosgroup.com/insights

Visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@strategospodcastnetwork

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S1 · E41
May 7 · 33 min
Empowering Students through Choice, Community, and CTE in Utah
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, guest host Johnny Key, in for Tom Luna, sits down with Dr. Molly Hart, Utah Superintendent of Public Instruction for the Utah State Board of Education, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, school choice, workforce readiness, and the enduring power of public education. Dr. Hart reflects on her personal journey as a first-generation college student growing up in rural Michigan, where access to public education and a simple trip to the library helped shape her future. She shares how her path from classroom teacher to principal, charter school leader, state board member, and now state superintendent has reinforced her belief that education must remain deeply rooted in community, opportunity, and student growth. Throughout the conversation, Hart emphasizes the importance of restoring joy and purpose to classrooms while maintaining high expectations for teaching and learning. She discusses the need for stronger instructional practices, better principal development, and more meaningful professional support for educators, all while recognizing that successful schools cannot simply copy and paste solutions from other states or districts. The episode also explores Utah’s innovative work around workforce development, career pathways, and student choice. Hart explains how initiatives like First Credential and Catalyst Centers are helping students gain hands-on experiences and industry credentials while still building strong academic foundations. She also offers a nuanced perspective on school choice, arguing that families benefit when education systems provide flexible, high-quality options that meet diverse student needs. Grounded in both practical leadership and personal conviction, this conversation highlights Dr. Hart’s belief that education works best when systems empower teachers, honor local communities, and keep students at the center of every decision. Key Moments: 05:16 Moving and teaching in Utah 09:18 Missing the cafeteria experience 10:16 Principals building school relationships 13:19 Finding joy and purpose at work 17:56 Federal changes in education policy 19:25 High school CTE stories 24:30 Converting to a charter school 28:39 Discussing school choice options 31:55 Planning innovative student projects Connect with Dr. Molly Hart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-hart-ed-d-997664139 Website: https://schools.utah.gov/
S1 · E42
May 7 · 33 min
State Chiefs, Technology, and the Tennessee Way: Education Innovation with Lizzette Reynolds
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, guest host Johnny Key sits down with Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education for the State of Tennessee, for a timely conversation recorded live at the ASU GSV Conference in San Diego. Reynolds shares her perspective on how states can better align education systems with real workforce needs, emphasizing that the goal is not to replace educators with technology, but to use innovation thoughtfully to strengthen teaching and learning. She highlights Tennessee’s strong focus on the science of reading and emerging efforts in math, while urging edtech providers and philanthropic partners to focus on building capacity, improving efficiency, and supporting—not disrupting—classroom instruction. A central theme of the conversation is the importance of tailoring solutions to each state’s unique context. Reynolds explains that while national models and policies can offer guidance, effective implementation must reflect local values, student needs, and economic priorities. This approach is especially critical as Tennessee works to strengthen connections between K–12 education, higher education, and workforce development, ensuring students are prepared for a wide range of career pathways. Reynolds also discusses the need for stronger collaboration between education systems and the business community, noting that both sectors ultimately share a common goal: expanding opportunities for students through meaningful, sustainable careers. She underscores the importance of balancing academic rigor with career and technical education, ensuring students build both foundational knowledge and practical skills without limiting future growth. Key Moments: 05:17 Perspective on educational policy roles 08:57 Focusing on district support needs 10:05 Using AI for education pathways 14:03 Concerns about young teacher prep 17:24 Integrating education with workforce development 19:47 Addressing healthcare education needs 24:59 Importance of foundational knowledge 26:46 Improving education in Tennessee 31:28 Bringing personal items to spa Connect with Lizzette Reynolds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzetteg Website: https://www.tn.gov/
S1 · E34
Dec 24, 2025 · 27 min
Leadership, School Choice, and Education Funding With Rep. Wendy Horman
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, former Idaho State Superintendent and host Tom Luna sits down with Wendy Horman, Chair of the Idaho House Appropriations Committee and Co-Chair of the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee (JFAC), to explore what it truly means to lead in education while swimming against the current. Rep. Horman reflects on her journey from local school board service in the Bonneville School District to becoming one of the most influential voices shaping Idaho’s education funding and policy. Drawing on more than two decades of public service, she explains how asking hard questions, following the data, and challenging the status quo have guided her work at both the local and state levels. The conversation dives deeply into education funding, accountability, and transparency. Horman explains how Idaho’s education budget has more than doubled over the past decade while student enrollment has grown modestly, and why fiscal policy is inseparable from education policy. She also outlines the major reforms to Idaho’s budgeting process, designed to increase accountability by separating base funding from new spending requests and requiring agencies to demonstrate results before seeking additional dollars. Throughout the episode, Horman returns to a consistent theme: optimism rooted in students themselves. From her work with local schools to conversations with college students, she shares why the next generation gives her hope for the future of education in Idaho and beyond. Key Moments 04:00 From school board service to the Idaho Legislature 08:55 Understanding Idaho’s education funding structure 11:52 Reforming the state budgeting and accountability process 16:35 Public education investment and school choice can coexist 19:23 Inside Idaho’s parental choice tax credit 24:56 What gives hope for the future of education 25:54 A surprising piece of Idaho education history 21:49 Kids Inspire Hope Connect with Wendy Horman Website: https://idahocapitalsun.com/
S1 · E35
Dec 24, 2025 · 27 min
School Choice, Transparency, and Idaho’s Growth With Sen. Lori Den Hartog
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down in New Orleans at the Excel in Education Conference with Senator Lori Den Hartog, Senate Majority Leader from Idaho, to explore how education policy, school choice, and government accountability intersect especially in a fast-growing state. Sen. Den Hartog shares her personal story growing up on a dairy farm in rural Ada County and how that upbringing shaped her work ethic and her views on private property rights, regulation, and the real-world cost of government bureaucracy especially for small businesses and family operations. The conversation then turns to education policy, where Den Hartog emphasizes the importance of transparency, especially since K–12 education represents a major portion of Idaho’s state budget. She explains why unclear funding flows make it difficult to track spending, measure outcomes, and defend policies ultimately limiting the state’s ability to evaluate what’s working. Finally, Den Hartog explains the broader challenge legislators face: balancing education investments alongside transportation, healthcare, corrections, and other core state responsibilities while remembering that every dollar is taxpayer money. Key Moments 00:00 Tom Luna intro + the “not rocket science… more complicated” line 00:41 Live from New Orleans: introducing Sen. Lori Den Hartog 02:58 Growing up on a dairy farm + how it shaped her leadership 07:43 Growth, regulation, and why “time is money” for small businesses 10:46 Why education funding needs transparency and traceable results 13:06 Why school choice has always felt “normal” to her 16:41 Idaho’s refundable education tax credit: who qualifies + what it covers 22:07 Balancing education with roads, healthcare, and other state priorities Connect with Lori Den Hartog Website: https://www.dordt.edu/
S1 · E36
Dec 24, 2025 · 24 min
Diving into Accountability: Tennessee's Education Reforms with Lizzette Reynolds
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna is joined by Strategos Group Partner Johnny Key for a live conversation from the Excel in Education Conference in New Orleans with Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education for the state of Tennessee. A major focus of the conversation is literacy. Reynolds explains Tennessee’s commitment to the science of reading, the importance of early literacy benchmarks, and how statewide implementation from teacher preparation to instructional materials and tutoring has helped drive improvement. She emphasizes that literacy is foundational not only to academic success, but to students’ long-term economic and life outcomes. The episode also explores assessment and accountability, including Tennessee’s A–F school grading system, the push for clearer and faster data reporting, and how states can use assessment results to support not punish schools and educators. Reynolds discusses how Tennessee is reimagining high school accountability through a “Future Ready” lens that values college, career, and military readiness. The conversation closes with a hopeful outlook on Tennessee’s educators, school leaders, and students and a fun piece of trivia: Mountain Dew originated in Tennessee, originally created as a whiskey mixer. Key Moments 00:00 Tom Luna on leadership, accountability, and Swimming Upstream 01:08 Introducing Commissioner Lizzette Reynolds live from New Orleans 01:43 Reynolds’ path from federal education policy to Tennessee leadership 04:32 Implementing Tennessee’s A–F accountability system 07:34 Why literacy and the science of reading matter long-term 10:03 Tutoring, teacher prep, and instructional support statewide 15:13 Assessment, ESSA waivers, and accountability going forward 17:42 Future Ready Tennessee: rethinking high school outcomes 21:43 Using assessment data to individualize instruction 24:10 What gives Reynolds hope for Tennessee’s students 25:39 Tennessee trivia: the origin of Mountain Dew Connect with Lizzette Reynolds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzetteg
S1 · E37
Dec 24, 2025 · 27 min
Literacy, School Safety, and Teacher Retention: Richard Woods on Leading Georgia Education
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna is joined by Johnny Key live from the Excel in Ed Conference in New Orleans for a conversation with Richard Woods, Georgia’s elected State School Superintendent. Woods reflects on his path from classroom teacher to statewide office sharing how the post No Child Left Behind era pushed him to focus on what he felt was missing most: talking about kids, not just tests. Now entering his 12th year in office and running for a fourth term, he describes what it takes to stay relevant, energized, and centered on student outcomes over multiple terms. The conversation explores Georgia’s push to strengthen early literacy, including the rollout of new K–12 literacy standards grounded in the science of reading. Woods shares early results from Georgia’s federally identified CSI schools, where coaching support modeled after Mississippi’s approach has driven initial gains and is now being replicated more broadly across the state. Woods also discusses Georgia’s comprehensive approach to school safety—not only hardening buildings through cameras, SROs, and facility design collaboration with first responders, but also addressing the “question behind the question” through mental health supports, stronger inter-agency coordination, and telehealth access in rural communities. Key Moments 06:12 "Importance of Reading for Kids" 09:57 "Focusing on Kids' Basic Needs" 11:14 Prioritizing School Safety and Readiness 17:15 "Teaching the Peach Initiative" 18:05 Addressing Teacher Retention Challenges 21:45 "Improving Literacy Through Accountability" 24:49 "Integrating Subjects for Deeper Learning" Connect with Richard Woods LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-woods-52571849/ Website: https://www.gadoe.org/
S1 · E32
Dec 10, 2025 · 27 min
Idaho Education Innovations with State Superintendent Debbie Critchfield
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Debbie Critchfield, Idaho’s elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction, live from the Education and Excellence Conference in New Orleans. The conversation focuses on what Critchfield has prioritized during her first term: expanding opportunity for rural students, strengthening career technical education (CTE), improving teacher preparation and support, and scaling a statewide literacy strategy built around the science of reading. On literacy, she describes Idaho’s SMART coaching model and statewide alignment of curriculum, teacher training, and administrator readiness. She shares early outcomes from Idaho’s K–3 reading assessment efforts, including statewide gains and standout schools seeing dramatic growth. The episode also touches on Idaho’s broad landscape of school choice, and Critchfield offers a measured perspective on the new tax credit program supporting parental choice while also pointing to transparency and accountability questions that will become clearer as implementation begins. Key Moments 05:07 Unique Playground Ice Rink 07:38 "Immediate Graduation Requirement Implementation" 09:51 Career Tech Investment Initiative 14:36 Accelerating Student-Centered Funding Reform 17:35 Idaho's Literacy and Local Leadership 19:36 "Teacher Preparation Over Curriculum" 23:30 "Children: 100% of Our Future" Connect with Debbie Critchfield LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-critchfield-b926446b/ Website: https://boardofed.idaho.gov
S1 · E31
Dec 8, 2025 · 24 min
Redesigning Education in Oklahoma: Innovation, Literacy, and Technology With Dr. April Grace
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, former Idaho State Superintendent and host Tom Luna sits down with Dr. April Grace, Executive Director and CEO of the Oklahoma Public School Resource Center (OPSRC) and one of Oklahoma’s most respected education leaders. With more than 35 years in public education—including recognition as Oklahoma’s 2021 Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Grace brings deep experience in district leadership, HR, instructional design, policy development, and statewide system building. Tom and Dr. Grace dive into the critical challenges facing Oklahoma schools today, beginning with OPSRC’s mission to expand access, innovation, and academic achievement across all public schools—particularly in rural communities and small districts that often lack back-office capacity, legal support, or high-quality professional development. Dr. Grace explains how OPSRC delivers free training, leadership development, technical assistance, and grant-supported resources to ensure every student—no matter their ZIP code, has access to strong instruction and meaningful opportunities. A key focus of their conversation is the teacher pipeline crisis. Dr. Grace highlights Oklahoma's registered teacher apprenticeship program, a “grow-your-own” strategy helping paraprofessionals and community members earn degrees while working in schools. She also discusses OPSRC’s mentorship program for early-career teachers and the need to expand multi-year support to strengthen retention. The episode also explores literacy, AI, career pathways, and how Oklahoma schools are reimagining learning through aviation academies, VR science programs, and innovative technology tools built with safety and personalization in mind. Key Moments 04:29 Teacher Apprenticeship Policy Updates 09:24 "Expanding School Choice Opportunities" 12:23 "AI and Evolving Education" 16:27 "Prioritizing K-2 Foundational Skills" 20:19 Oklahoma Schools Embrace Aviation Programs 21:49 Kids Inspire Hope Connect with Dr. April Grace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/april-grace-ed-d-21705b2a/ Website: https://www.ou.edu/
S1 · E30
Oct 23, 2025 · 33 min
Why Parent Partnership and Honest Data Matter in Virginia’s Education Transformation
In this episode of "Swimming Upstream" host Tom Luna, sits down with Aimee Guidera, Virginia’s Secretary of Education, live from the ASU GSV conference in San Diego. As Guidera approaches the end of Governor Youngkin’s administration, she reflects on the challenges and achievements of transforming education in Virginia—a state with the unique constraint that its governor serves only one term. Guidera shares deep insights into her role overseeing education from early childhood through higher ed, emphasizing the urgent need for breaking down silos and preparing students for today’s rapidly evolving workforce. She highlights the innovative use of labor market data through the Virginia Office for Education Economics (VOE), which equips students, families, and institutions with actionable information to create responsive education strategies and align academic plans directly with regional job demands. Listeners will hear about Virginia’s overhaul of academic standards in core subjects, the process of benchmarking against national best practices, and the state’s renewed commitment to educational transparency. Guidera and Luna discuss the tough but vital decision to confront an “honesty gap” in student achievement reporting and the shift toward accountability systems focused on real outcomes rather than compliance. Guidera wraps up by sharing little-known facts about Virginia, adding a touch of state pride and history to this thoughtful and inspiring episode. Perfect for education leaders, policymakers, and anyone passionate about student success and innovation in public policy. Key Moments 04:39 Virginia: Top State for Business & Education 07:54 Empowering Informed Education Paths 10:36 Enhancing Educational Standards Nationwide 15:26 Challenging Misguided Perceptions 17:58 Empowering Parents Post-COVID 19:16 Enhancing Parent-Teacher Data Sharing 23:16 Student Support: A Three-Legged Stool 27:25 Virginia Launches Job Support Initiative 29:13 Exploring Data’s Impact and Value Connect with Aimee Guidera LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-guidera-27a2646 Website: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/
S1 · E32
Sep 25, 2025 · 36 min
How Ford Is Quietly Transforming American High Schools
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Cheryl Carrier, Executive Director of Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL), for a thought-provoking conversation recorded live at the ASU+GSV Summit. With a career rooted in public education and corporate innovation, Carrier brings a unique lens to one of education’s biggest challenges: how to make high school relevant for every student. Carrier shares the origin and evolution of the Ford NGL model—a nationally recognized framework designed to transform teaching and learning through career-themed academies that connect schools with local businesses, civic leaders, and community stakeholders. Drawing from years of implementation across diverse regions—from rural Idaho to urban Nashville—Carrier outlines Ford NGL’s three-part transformation framework and its five-phase roadmap, offering a blueprint for sustainable, community-driven school reform. This episode dives deep into how Ford NGL helps districts shift from siloed instruction to collaborative, real-world learning environments that spark student engagement, boost graduation rates, and create stronger pathways to college, career, and life. Carrier also opens up about her personal connection to the work, her roots in Michigan's auto industry, and the formative experiences that shaped her passion for authentic education. Key Moments 05:10 Career Academy Model Benefits Students 08:35 Self-Discovery and Career-Aligned Academies 11:15 Transforming Education Through Collaboration 13:43 Navigating Education Policy Barriers 18:52 "Community Feedback on Transformation" 21:00 "High-Level Executive Community Tracks" 26:13 "Success of Career Academy Model" 27:18 Community and Hands-on Learning 30:15 Rural Education Challenges 33:33 Community-Driven Educational Change Connect with Cheryl Carrier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-carrier-fordng Website: https://fordngl.com/cheryl-carrier/
S1 · E32
Aug 28, 2025 · 24 min
Exploring Early Literacy and Civics Education with Education Commissioner Manny Diaz
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host and Strategos Partner Tom Luna sits down with former Florida Education Commissioner and current University of West Florida Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. to discuss the state's bold strides in education reform. Recorded at the ExcelinEd conference in Oklahoma City, this conversation highlights Florida’s leadership in school choice, civics education, early literacy, and teacher recruitment. Commissioner Diaz shares how Florida has expanded school choice options, with over 500,000 students now benefiting from education savings accounts, charter schools, private school scholarships, and hybrid learning models. He explains how Florida’s innovative "a la carte" approach allows families to tailor education to their children’s unique needs, driving a national movement toward greater parental choice. The discussion also delves into Florida’s comprehensive civics education initiatives, including the Civic Seal of Excellence program and debate championships aimed at preparing students to be informed citizens. Commissioner Diaz emphasizes the importance of early literacy, citing Florida’s investments in progress monitoring and curriculum reforms to ensure students are reading at grade level by third grade. Addressing the teacher shortage, Diaz outlines Florida’s alternative certification pathways, teacher apprenticeship programs, and professional development investments, all designed to elevate and retain educators. He also highlights Florida’s new transparency initiatives, ensuring parents and taxpayers have full access to classroom materials. Key Moments 03:35 Homeschooling Challenges and Solutions 07:49 DeSantis Boosts Civics Education Initiatives 11:45 Early Learning Investment Focus 13:55 Florida's Strategy for Teacher Shortage 18:04 Classroom Transparency and Curriculum Shift 21:21 Tallahassee's Origin as Florida's Capital 23:20 Disappointment Over Florida's Capitol Building Connect with Manny Diaz Jr. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manny-diaz-jr-47463b55/ Website: https://www.flbog.edu/
S1 · E31
Jul 24, 2025 · 18 min
Navigating Special Education Challenges with Expert Insights from Kathy Hoffman
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Kathy Hoffman, former Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction and a passionate advocate for special education. Now serving as the Executive Director for Innovation and Special Education Initiatives at Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, Kathy is leading Project OASIS—a groundbreaking initiative to rethink and improve special education systems. Kathy shares her journey from speech-language pathologist to state education leader, explaining how her firsthand experiences in Arizona classrooms shaped her drive for reform. She discusses the challenges facing special education today, including severe teacher shortages, overwhelming administrative burdens, and the need for more inclusive classroom models. Through Project OASIS, she is bringing together educators, researchers, parents, and business leaders to explore innovative strategies that improve outcomes for students with disabilities. Tom and Kathy also dive into the complexities of special education funding, teacher training, and the need for community collaboration to ensure that every child—regardless of ability—receives the support they need to succeed. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how reimagining special education can create lasting, positive change for students, teachers, and school systems nationwide. Key Moments 03:49 Challenges in Special Education Compliance 09:29 Parents' Role in Education Improvement 12:11 Special Ed Challenges in Arizona 14:40 Challenges in Inclusive Education 17:27 Children: 100% of Our Future Connect with Kathy Hoffman X: https://x.com/supt_hoffman?lang=en
S1 · E30
Jun 26, 2025 · 19 min
Enhancing Education: Insights on Standards, Choice, and Accountability with Chad Aldis
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Chad Aldis, Vice President of Ohio Policy at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, to discuss the pressing challenges and opportunities in American education. Aldis shares his journey from law school to the forefront of education policy, detailing his work in school choice, academic standards, and accountability systems. With experience spanning state legislatures, nonprofit advocacy, and national policy research, Aldis provides a nuanced perspective on what it takes to improve educational outcomes for all students. The conversation explores the role of rigorous academic standards, the importance of teacher quality, and the evolving landscape of school choice. Aldis highlights how the Fordham Institute has been instrumental in shaping education policy in Ohio while influencing national discussions. He and Luna discuss the critical need for high expectations in schools, the impact of post-pandemic learning gaps—particularly in math—and how accountability measures must prioritize student success over feel-good participation. They also examine the challenges faced by rural schools and the importance of maintaining educational equity in areas with fewer choices. Wrapping up with a surprising Ohio trivia fact, Aldis and Luna provide a compelling discussion on why education reform is essential for the nation’s future. Tune in to Swimming Upstream for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges the status quo and advocates for meaningful, student-centered change in education. Key Moments 04:21 Influence of Ohio's Education Policies 07:01 Boosting Education Through Relevance 12:48 Meaningful Readiness Indicators Needed 15:54 Rural School Challenges and Accountability 17:01 Prioritizing Students and Education Urgency Connect with Chad Aldis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-aldis-614oh/ Website : https://fordhaminstitute.org/
S1 · E33
May 15, 2025 · 38 min
Inside Ohio’s Game Plan for Workforce-Ready Graduates
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna welcomes Stephen D. Dackin, Director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, for a conversation that dives deep into the evolving role of education in preparing students for life beyond high school. With over four decades in public education—as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and policymaker—Dackin shares how Ohio is reshaping its entire K–12 ecosystem to meet the urgent demands of today’s economy. From pioneering STEM academies in Reynoldsburg to leading the newly integrated Department of Education and Workforce, Dackin has made a career out of building bridges—between schools and businesses, academics and employability, policy and practice. This episode explores how Ohio is aligning its education system with workforce realities through community-driven school reform, personalized student pathways, and innovative state-level policy shifts. Dackin breaks down the state’s new governance model, which uniquely merges education and workforce strategy, and discusses why that matters for employers, families, and students alike. Listeners will also hear about Ohio’s innovative graduation pathways, career planning reforms, and a game-changing pilot program that could reimagine the high school experience altogether. Whether you're a state leader, educator, or community advocate, this episode offers both inspiration and a roadmap for making public education more relevant, responsive, and resilient. Key Moments 00:00 From Athlete to Educator 03:36 Teacher to Administrator Journey 09:57 Empowering Parental Choice in Education 10:55 "Reynoldsburg Reach Community Engagement" 16:19 Ohio's Business Growth and Workforce Challenge 18:48 Pathways Beyond High School 20:35 Transition Challenges to College Success 25:11 Accountability in Education Readiness Measures 30:28 Ohio Education and Workforce Insights 31:28 "Superman Originated in Cleveland" 35:17 "Community Engagement in School Planning" 38:02 "Children: 100% of Our Future Connect with Stephen Dackin Website: https://education.ohio.gov/
S1 · E29
Apr 24, 2025 · 29 min
Educational Revolution: Mackenzie Price on Two-Hour Learning
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with MacKenzie Price, an innovative educator and co-founder of 2hr Learning and Alpha School, who is redefining how we approach K-12 education. MacKenzie shares her journey, from growing up in a small-town school to attending Stanford and ultimately pioneering a model that challenges the traditional education system. MacKenzie’s 2hr Learning methodology focuses on efficiency and mastery, using AI-powered adaptive learning tools to condense academic instruction into just two hours a day. This approach frees up time for students to explore their passions, develop life skills, and excel in unique projects. Her schools, including Alpha School, have achieved remarkable results, with students learning up to six times faster and consistently performing in the top 2% nationwide. Tom and MacKenzie discuss the challenges and opportunities of scaling this innovative model, including its potential impact on public education through charter and virtual schools. Tune in to hear how MacKenzie’s passion and transformative ideas are reshaping education—and why she believes every child can thrive with the right approach. Key Moments 00:00 "Tom Luna's Educational Podcast" 03:06 Lack of Passion-Driven Education 06:13 School System's Motivation Problem 11:17 Accelerated Learning Through Sports 13:14 Paid Learning for Ukrainian Refugees 18:04 Teaching Grit Through Triathlon 19:42 Cultivating Life Skills and Masterpieces 23:36 Philosophical Alignment in EdTech Education 26:45 "Advocating for Diverse Education Choices" 29:15 Children: 100% of Our Future Connect with Mackenzie Price LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzielprice/ Website: https://2hourlearning.com/
S1 · E29
Mar 27, 2025 · 20 min
Carissa Miller on State Education Chiefs and Innovative Teaching Solutions at Excel in Ed
In Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Dr. Carissa Moffat Miller, CEO of the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), to discuss the evolving landscape of education policy, leadership, and innovation. With decades of experience shaping state and national education initiatives, Dr. Miller shares insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field today. The conversation explores pressing topics such as teacher shortages, the impact of high-dosage tutoring on student learning, and the future of math education reform. Dr. Miller also provides a behind-the-scenes look at how CCSSO helped states navigate the pandemic, manage federal education funds, and implement effective recovery strategies. As artificial intelligence reshapes education, Dr. Miller discusses CCSSO’s efforts to equip state leaders with policies and best practices for AI integration in classrooms. She also shares a unique piece of Nebraska trivia, adding a personal touch to an insightful discussion. Tune in to hear how education leaders are driving meaningful change, one policy at a time. Key Moments 00:00:39 - Setting the Scene 00:01:24 - A Career Rooted in Education Leadership 00:03:23 - The Role of CCSSO 00:04:47 - Navigating Political Transitions in Education 00:06:51 - Addressing the Teacher Shortage 00:08:06 - Pandemic Response & Federal Funding 00:10:38 - Data-Driven Education Recovery 00:12:08 - Math Education Reform & The Science of Reading Parallel 00:14:36 - The Rise of AI in Education 00:17:14 - AI Policy & Classroom Integration 00:18:32 - Nebraska Trivia & Unicameral Legislature Connect with Carissa Miller Website: https://ccsso.org/
S1 · E29
Feb 27, 2025 · 16 min
Charting Education's Future: Accountability and Choice with Bill Hansen
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with Bill Hansen, President & CEO of Building Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting charter school facilities, financing, and services. Hansen, a veteran leader in education policy and philanthropy, shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in expanding school choice, driving educational innovation, and ensuring equitable access to quality education. Hansen, who previously served as U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education under President George W. Bush, discusses his extensive career in public and private sectors, including his leadership at Strada Education Network, where he helped create a $2 billion national social impact fund. He reflects on key education policies from No Child Left Behind to recent reforms aimed at closing achievement gaps and supporting underserved communities. The conversation also delves into Hansen’s work at Building Hope, which has played a pivotal role in expanding charter school options across the country, including significant projects in Idaho and Florida. He and Luna explore how rural education, charter school facilities, and innovative learning models—such as Elevate Academy in Idaho—are shaping the future of student success. As a state board member in Virginia, Hansen highlights the importance of accountability, school choice, and parental engagement in post-pandemic education recovery. Tune in to hear how his lifelong commitment to education reform is helping more students access the learning opportunities they deserve. Key Moments 06:06 Impact of No Child Left Behind 08:13 Expanding School Choices Nationwide 12:39 "New School Accountability Framework Launched" 14:51 "Why I Prefer Virginia" Connect with Bill Hansen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billdhansen/ Website: https://buildinghope.org/
S1 · E30
Feb 14, 2025 · 28 min
Indiana's Education Transformation: Katie Jenner on Teacher Shortages and Student Graduation Reforms
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host and former Idaho State Superintendent Tom Luna sits down with Katie Jenner, Indiana’s Secretary of Education, to discuss the state’s bold initiatives to enhance education outcomes. Now in her fifth year leading the Indiana Department of Education, Katie shares insights into the state’s innovative policies aimed at improving teacher recruitment, modernizing graduation requirements, and driving student success. Katie highlights Indiana’s groundbreaking Educator Supply and Demand Marketplace, a data-driven approach that connects schools with qualified teachers, addressing shortages in special education, STEM, and English language instruction. She also discusses the state’s transformative high school diploma reforms, designed to provide students with personalized pathways—whether through higher education, workforce training, or military service. The conversation delves into Indiana’s remarkable gains in literacy, driven by research-based reading strategies, and the lessons the state is applying to improve math proficiency. Katie also shares Indiana’s role as a national leader in STEM education, boasting the country’s largest K-12 robotics competition. Tune in to hear how Indiana is “keeping its foot on the gas pedal” in education and leading the way with data-driven reforms that ensure students graduate prepared for the opportunities ahead. Key Moments 04:25 Educator Pipeline & Job Matching 09:05 Stagnant Education Amid Rapid Change 11:15 Indiana's 2024 Education Reform Debate 16:01 Relevance in Education Drives Success 18:07 Workforce vs. Higher Ed Skills 21:32 Adopting Mississippi's Literacy Success 24:44 Swimming Upstream Interview 27:30 Children: 100% Future Focus Connect with Katie Jenner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-jenner Website: https://www.in.gov/
S1 · E27
Dec 16, 2024 · 26 min
Overcoming Challenges in Education with James Lane on Swimming Upstream
In this episode of Swimming Upstream, host Tom Luna sits down with James Lane, former Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction and a key leader in U.S. education. With a career spanning classroom teaching, district leadership, and senior roles in both state and federal education departments, Lane brings a wealth of experience and insight to the pressing challenges in education today. Recorded at the ASU+GSV Summit, the episode highlights the intersection of innovation and leadership in addressing critical issues like the national teacher shortage. Lane discusses his current work with Educators Rising, a program under the PDK umbrella that aims to inspire high school students to pursue careers in education. By focusing on a "grow your own" model, Educators Rising seeks to address teacher shortages locally, empowering districts to recruit future educators from within their communities. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Lane’s mission to build a sustainable teacher pipeline and his vision for the future of education. This episode underscores the importance of leadership, innovation, and collaboration in tackling education’s toughest challenges. Key Moments 04:19 Band director transformed school program and became administrator. 08:52 Multiyear effort ensuring effective American Rescue Plan. 10:52 Left Biden Admin to foster future educators. 15:40 Focus on high school students becoming teachers. 16:49 Teacher quality is crucial; subject gaps persist, especially in STEM. 20:30 Passionate about teaching from a young age. 23:51 Appointed for a 4-year term, achieved goals despite COVID. 26:26 Children are the future; subscribe for more insights. Connect with James Lane LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-lane-7b712066/ Website:https://education.virginia.edu/
S1 · E26
Nov 5, 2024 · 23 min
Gordon Jones on Overcoming Educational Challenges in Idaho
In this episode Swimming Upstream, I'm your host,Tom Luna Tom Luna engages in an enlightening conversation with Gordon Jones, President of the College of Western Idaho (CWI), live from the ASU GSV Conference in San Diego. With a rich educational background spanning K-12 teaching to leadership roles at Ivy League institutions, Gordon shares his compelling journey and vision for CWI, one of the fastest-growing community colleges in the Boise region. Gordon delves into the transformative impact of community colleges in today’s evolving educational landscape, emphasizing the urgency of making higher education both affordable and accessible. He highlights CWI’s groundbreaking new programs, such as the low-cost 4-year business degree tailored to meet the dynamic demands of Idaho’s workforce and the broader community. Together, they discuss how CWI’s forward-thinking initiatives are designed to foster public trust and drive generational change through innovation and empathy. Listeners will be captivated by insights from the Harvard Innovation Lab and trends defying predictions about community college growth, as well as how CWI is uniquely positioning itself as a catalyst for economic and educational advancement. Whether you’re passionate about education reform or community-driven leadership, this episode offers valuable lessons for all. Key Moments 00:00 Interview with Gordon Jones at the ASUGSV conference. 03:38 Harvard Innovation Lab: Global talent fostering cross-disciplinary ideas. 08:29 Many predictions are now respected amid education changes. 13:22 Community college growth defies trends, driven by demand. 16:26 Community colleges offer alternatives to 4-year degrees. 20:46 New Idaho business bachelor's degree approval pending. 21:53 Bachelor’s demand unmet; education ecosystem strengthens. Connect with Gordon Jones LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gordon-jones-4967174/ Website: https://cwi.edu/

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