Solve for X

In this episode of Solve for X, host Dr. Rick Fernandez welcomes Russ Johnson, CEO of Tessera Technology Group and Trustee at Lorena ISD. With over 30 years in education and leadership, Russ shares how districts can strengthen school safety, sustain superintendents, and prepare students for meaningful careers—while keeping community and care at the center.

From balancing technology and trust to supporting leaders under pressure, this episode explores what it takes to lead through change and protect what matters most in public education.

What You’ll Learn
  • Why school safety starts with people, not just products

  • How districts can move from reaction to prevention after crises

  • The rising stress on Texas superintendents and how boards can help

  • Why leadership wellness should be part of every district’s accountability

  • How smaller districts can create workforce pathways through partnerships

  • The link between community trust, school culture, and strong leadership
Episode Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to Solve for X — “Risk it to get that biscuit”
01:17 Meet Russ Johnson, CEO of Tessera Technology Group and Lorena ISD Trustee
02:10 What Tessera solves for: building safety through collaboration
03:20 The three pillars of school safety—facilities, tech, and the human factor
05:10 Avoiding reactionary decisions: the “pendulum effect” after tragedy
07:00 Balancing security and culture: keeping schools welcoming
09:10 Superintendent wellness and why it’s often overlooked
11:45 The politics of leadership—pay, pressure, and sustainability
14:20 Preparing students for the workforce through innovation and partnerships
20:00 Closing reflections—why educator voices must stay loud and united

Connect with Us
Host’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rick-fernandez-40692434/


Special Thanks
To Russ Johnson and the Tessera Technology Group team for their work advancing safer schools, stronger leadership, and sustainable education in Texas.

Stay Connected
Follow, like, and subscribe to Solve for X for more stories where curiosity meets collaboration.
Until next time—keep asking the right questions, and keep solving for X.

What is Solve for X?

Solve for X is the podcast where district leaders and EdTech innovators come together to tackle the real challenges in K–12 education. Hosted by Dr. Rick Fernandez of PowerSchool, each episode explores what schools truly need, how vendors respond, and how stronger partnerships can lead to smarter solutions and better outcomes for students.