In today’s episode, host Iranetta Rayborn Wright talked to Dr. Rick Surrency, superintendent of Putnam County Schools in Florida, who takes us on a journey through the remarkable turnaround his district has achieved.
In this candid conversation, Dr. Rick Surrency shares how Putnam County, once facing the challenge of 11 schools labeled as D or F, transformed through a systematic approach, community engagement, and a focus on elevating both student outcomes and teacher retention. We hear about innovative programs in STEM and career pathways, including partnerships that give students access to emerging fields like aerospace, and even opportunities for them to earn pilot licenses. Dr. Rick Surrency dives into the unique perspective of being an elected superintendent, describing how sustained leadership has been critical to building trust and securing a $300 million investment for school revitalization.
Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or someone passionate about the future of public education, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories of progress, from improved graduation rates to meaningful community partnerships. Join us as we celebrate success from Putnam County and explore what it truly takes to achieve lasting change in our schools.
Key Moments
04:41 "Elected Leadership vs. Appointed"
06:53 "K-12 STEM Future Focus"
13:06 Teacher Retention Through Mentorship
16:50 "Florida Teacher Support Initiatives"
18:06 "Retaining High-Quality Teachers"
21:31 "Trust Drives Community Leadership"
Why You’ll Love This Episode: