{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"The Boyz of Edtech | K–12 Education Insights","title":"Competing for the Future: How Dr. Rick Surrency Is Transforming Outcomes in Putnam County Schools","html":"<iframe width=\"100%\" height=\"180\" frameborder=\"no\" scrolling=\"no\" seamless src=\"https://share.transistor.fm/e/6e0c3ec2\"></iframe>","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2295,"description":"In this episode of the Boys of EdTech, the crew is joined by Dr. Rick Surrency, Superintendent of Putnam County School District in Florida, for a powerful conversation on leadership, innovation, and what it takes to truly compete in today’s K-12 landscape.\nWith nearly 50 years in education, Dr. Surrency shares his journey from coach and classroom teacher to an elected superintendent navigating one of the most dynamic and challenging education environments in the country. He offers a unique perspective on leading in a choice-driven system, where districts must continuously evolve to meet the needs of students and families.\nThe conversation dives deep into the district’s transformation, including a dramatic rise in graduation rates and the implementation of robust career and technical education programs. From aviation and advanced manufacturing to dual enrollment and STEM pathways, Dr. Surrency explains how aligning education with real workforce opportunities has given students a clear reason to stay engaged and succeed.\nHe also addresses the realities of competition, funding challenges, and the growing impact of school choice, emphasizing the importance of trust, transparency, and community engagement. The episode highlights how forward-thinking leadership, strategic partnerships, and a willingness to embrace change can drive meaningful outcomes for students.\nIf you are a district leader, edtech partner, or anyone invested in the future of education, this episode offers practical insights on building systems that prepare students for real opportunities beyond graduation.\nConnect with the Boyz\nRick Fernandez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/\nMatthew Millstein: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-millstein/\nJacob Kantor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejacobkantor/\nRyan Patenaude: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatenaude/\nJeff Piontek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffpiontek/\nKey Moments\n\n03:54 Why Dr. Surrency chose education\n04:49 Rethinking...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/wkLqTp5mkY2lrJRZTIPFUj-eapGDdxUdGrVrmDFKhCs/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9hZTQx/YmRlN2E0ZTQzNTEy/ZmQzNjQxNzQzY2Uz/NjYxYS5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}