Growing Inland Achievement

Tag: Education Insight

  • Education Insight: Preparing Students for the Workforce of Tomorrow

    Education Insight: Preparing Students for the Workforce of Tomorrow

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 7.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we are joined by Dr. Dale Marsden, the Founder & Chief Visionary of Tomorrow’s Talent, a transformative organization that partners with schools, businesses, and community groups to help students develop the skills needed for in-demand careers. Dr. Marsden, a former superintendent and prominent education consultant, discusses how Tomorrow’s Talent collaborates with employers in California to ensure students are equipped with the right skills. He also shares how schools and colleges can better align their programs with workforce needs and how his organization is empowering underrepresented communities to succeed in industries like healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing.

    The conversation delves into how evolving technologies and workforce trends, such as remote work, are shaping education and how students can be trained to thrive in these new environments. Dr. Marsden highlights the importance of adapting school curricula to stay ahead of emerging fields and meet the changing demands of the job market. Tune in to hear more about how Tomorrow’s Talent is preparing students for the future of work.

    Featured Guest

    Dr. Dale Marsden

    Founder and Chief Visionary, Tomorrow’s Talent

    Dr. Dale Marsden recently served as superintendent of the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD), California’s 10th largest urban public school district, which serves a diverse student population of 73 percent Latino and 14 percent African-American, in an area with a 91 percent poverty rate. The District serves over 50,000 students, 8,000 staff in 76 schools across a 98-square-mile radius. During Dr. Marsden’s tenure, the SBCUSD team experienced a historic increase in graduation rates from 66.8% to 93.6% (surpassing county, state, and national graduation rates), doubled the number of students eligible to attend 4-year universities, and increased from 5 to 53 high-growth, high-demand pathway experiences, ensuring equity and access for all students to high-wage careers in local and world industries.

    Dr. Marsden is a veteran of the United States Air Force and has over 30 years of experience in public education. He earned his bachelor’s degree from California State University, San Bernardino in Liberal Studies with a minor in mathematics, a master’s degree in Educational Administration, and a doctorate of education in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy from Pepperdine University, where he was named the 2016 Superintendent of the Year. In 2018, he was named a National Leader to Learn From by Education Week. In 2023, Dr. Marsden was reappointed by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors for his 3rd term on the Workforce Development Board and continues to serve on the Youth Committee.

    Dr. Marsden currently supports a host of state-wide and regional education reform and work-based learning initiatives, and is founder/owner/Chief Visionary of Tomorrow’s Talent, LLC a company focused on bridging education systems to the real world of work: “Local Talent, Local Employers, Local Economy”. Tomorrow’s Talent was nominated for the Chase ‘Icon Award’ in 2024 and received the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Award for a Service Based Business in 2024.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: A Visit to America’s Greatest Arts High School – Idyllwild Arts Academy

    Education Insight: A Visit to America’s Greatest Arts High School – Idyllwild Arts Academy

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 6.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we explore Idyllwild Arts Academy, one of the most prestigious arts high schools in the U.S., with Pamela Jordan, the President of the Academy. Pamela shares the story behind Idyllwild Arts, what sets it apart from other schools, and how it offers students an immersive experience that blends academic rigor with artistic passion. The academy’s international student body and its ability to evolve with new art forms like digital media and emerging music styles make it a truly unique institution.

    Pamela also discusses the challenges art-intensive schools face today and how Idyllwild Arts addresses these issues while nurturing the next generation of creative talent. She highlights some of the impressive faculty members and shares inspiring success stories of alumni who’ve gone on to thrive in the arts. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about how Idyllwild Arts helps students pursue careers in the arts and why it’s considered one of the top arts academies in the nation. Learn more about the academy at www.idyllwildarts.org.

    Featured Guest

    Pamela Jordan

    President and Head of School, Idyllwild Arts Academy

    Pamela Jordan was appointed President of the Idyllwild Arts Foundation in July, 2014. In 2016, she also assumed the role of Head of School. Prior to joining IAF, she worked at Chicago Academy for the Arts (CAA) for twenty-three years, serving as Head of School for thirteen years. Pamela received a Bachelor of Music from Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma and a Master of Education from Northeastern Illinois University. She has served on the boards of the Independent Schools Association of the Central States, Lake Michigan Association of Independent Schools, is the immediate past president for the Board of Arts Schools Network, and is currently on the Board of Directors for the California Association of Independent Schools. Pamela has served as a resource panelist to the School of the Arts, Singapore where she also delivered the keynote address for the school’s first bi-annual Arts Forum.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: The Role of Universities in Addressing Climate Change

    Education Insight: The Role of Universities in Addressing Climate Change

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 5.

    In this episode of Education Insight, Dr. Jennie Stephens, author of Climate Justice and the University: Shaping a Hopeful Future for All, shares her insights on how higher education institutions are unprepared for the climate challenges ahead. As a researcher focused on climate justice, fossil fuel phaseout, and financial innovations for a more sustainable future, Jennie emphasizes the critical role universities must play in preparing students to address the complex realities of climate change.

    Jennie explains the shortcomings in current climate education and the importance of integrating climate justice into diverse disciplines, from business and engineering to social sciences. She discusses how universities can bridge the divide between majors and foster interdisciplinary collaboration to address climate challenges more effectively.

    With the political landscape shifting and climate threats intensifying, Jennie also offers practical advice for universities and communities committed to impactful climate action, despite setbacks. She highlights successful examples of partnerships between universities and local communities and suggests ways for local colleges to replicate these efforts.

    Tune in to hear a compelling conversation about how universities can lead the charge in climate action, equip students with the skills to combat climate change, and influence policy to create a safer, more sustainable future for all.

    Featured Guest

    Dr. Jennie C. Stephens

    Author of the 2024 book, Climate Justice and the University: Shaping a Hopeful Future for All.

    Jennie C. Stephens is a feminist, climate justice scholar-activist focused on transformation toward a more just, healthy, and stable future for all. She is Professor of Climate Justice at the National University of Ireland Maynooth and on the coordinating team of the Climate Justice Universities Union. She is a fellow at the Global Center for Climate Justice, Professor of Sustainability Science and Policy at Northeastern University in Boston and was a Climate Justice Fellow at Harvard-Radcliffe (2023-2024). Her book Climate Justice and the University: Shaping a Hopeful Future For All (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024) proposes a paradigm shift to reimagine and restructure higher education to facilitate transformative social change toward ecological health and climate justice.

    Her research, teaching, and community engagement focus on integrating transformative social justice, feminist, anti-racist, decolonial perspectives into climate and energy policy, fossil fuel phaseout, the renewable energy transition, energy democracy, gender in energy and climate, and climate justice in higher education. In her 2020 book Diversifying Power: Why We Need Antiracist, Feminist Leadership on Climate and Energy (Island Press), she argues that effectively addressing climate change requires diversifying leadership, redistributing wealth and power, and moving beyond mainstream male-dominated technocratic solutions to climate change. Throughout her career she has explored institutional and cultural innovation in energy and climate with a focus on societal transformation.

    Jennie Stephens is on the advisory group of Feminists Communities for Climate Justice, is a member of the New England Grist Fixer Network, is part of the Climate Social Science Network, was a 2015-2016 Leopold Leadership fellow, and her book “Smart Grid (R)Evolution: Electric Power Struggles” (Cambridge University Press, 2015) explores social and cultural debates about energy system change (co-authored with Wilson & Peterson). Before joining Maynooth University in Ireland, Professor Stephens was on the faculty at Northeastern University, the University of Vermont (2014-2016) and Clark University (2005-2014). She did post-doctoral research at Harvard’s Kennedy School and she has taught courses at Tufts, Boston University, and MIT. She earned her PhD at the California Institute of Technology in Environmental Science & Engineering and her BA at Harvard University in Environmental Science and Policy.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • The Emotional and Social Struggles of 4th Graders After the Pandemic

    The Emotional and Social Struggles of 4th Graders After the Pandemic

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 4.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the unique challenges faced by 9-year-olds who missed crucial in-person kindergarten and first-grade experiences due to the pandemic. These now-4th graders are struggling socially and emotionally, and educators are working tirelessly to help them catch up academically while also addressing their emotional needs.

    We hear from Pearla Badena, a 4th-grade teacher at SeaView Elementary in the Coachella Valley Unified School District, who shares the struggles her students face with social interactions, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation. Pearla discusses how teachers are adapting to support students in these areas and provides advice for parents looking to help their children build confidence and manage their emotions.

    Additionally, Cara Molina, Executive Director for Health and Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District, explains the district’s efforts to provide social-emotional support for students. Cara highlights the importance of creating a comprehensive system of care to address these issues at the district level and shares recommendations for how parents, teachers, and schools can work together to support children in overcoming these challenges.

    Featured Guest

    Pearla Badena

    4th Grade Educator, SeaView Elementary School in the Coachella Valley Unified School District

    Cara Molina began her journey in the education field in 2003 as a Classified staff member working in Food Services and then as an Instructional Aide.  As a Classified staff member, wife, and mother of five children, she was empowered by her mentors, who were all educational leaders, and decided to pursue her dream going back to school as a first generation college graduate to become a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and now currently is the Executive Director of Health & Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District (OMSD) in Southern California, the third largest PK-8th grade district in California, which serves over 18,000 students in 33 schools.  She co-leads district-wide implementation of the OMSD Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and leads district implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Practices, Medical Billing, Homelessness Services, Community Schools, Mental Health, Case Management, and School Health. With her department team, OMSD has been awarded several state and local grants to provide in-district behavioral health, clinical mental health, and clinical social work services. In 2024, she was recognized with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 12 Central Office Administrator of the Year Award. She has presented at the ACSA Every Child Counts Conference, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) Conference, Southern Regional Student Wellness Conference, and other state and local conferences.  She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Administrative Credential at the University of La Verne.  From her experiences in overcoming barriers of poverty and trauma, she is a committed to opening pathways for students, families, and staff to realize dreams they may never thought possible, increasing inclusive practices, and is passionate in supporting current and future educational leaders in transformational and inclusive leadership practices for ongoing positive change supporting the whole-child.

    Cara Molina
    Executive Director for the Health & Wellness Services Department, Ontario-Montclair School District

    Cara Molina began her journey in the education field in 2003 as a Classified staff member working in Food Services and then as an Instructional Aide.  As a Classified staff member, wife, and mother of five children, she was empowered by her mentors, who were all educational leaders, and decided to pursue her dream going back to school as a first generation college graduate to become a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and now currently is the Executive Director of Health & Wellness Services in the Ontario-Montclair School District (OMSD) in Southern California, the third largest PK-8th grade district in California, which serves over 18,000 students in 33 schools.  She co-leads district-wide implementation of the OMSD Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) and leads district implementation of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Practices, Medical Billing, Homelessness Services, Community Schools, Mental Health, Case Management, and School Health. With her department team, OMSD has been awarded several state and local grants to provide in-district behavioral health, clinical mental health, and clinical social work services. In 2024, she was recognized with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 12 Central Office Administrator of the Year Award. She has presented at the ACSA Every Child Counts Conference, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) Conference, Southern Regional Student Wellness Conference, and other state and local conferences.  She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Administrative Credential at the University of La Verne.  From her experiences in overcoming barriers of poverty and trauma, she is a committed to opening pathways for students, families, and staff to realize dreams they may never thought possible, increasing inclusive practices, and is passionate in supporting current and future educational leaders in transformational and inclusive leadership practices for ongoing positive change supporting the whole-child.

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.

  • Education Insight: Breaking Barriers for Latinas in Leadership Roles with Claudia Valdez

    Education Insight: Breaking Barriers for Latinas in Leadership Roles with Claudia Valdez

    About This Episode

    Season 5. Episode 3.

    In this episode of Education Insight, we’re joined by Dr. Claudia Valdez, Administrative Services Manager in the Office of the Provost at California Baptist University. Dr. Valdez is also a researcher focused on the lack of diversity in mid-level management in both business and higher education. She shares her journey and the insights from her dissertation, which focuses on the challenges faced by Latinas aspiring to leadership roles.

    Throughout the episode, Dr. Valdez discusses the systemic barriers that contribute to the underrepresentation of Latina leaders in mid-level management positions. She reflects on how imposter syndrome, lack of mentorship, and cultural expectations influence career progression for many Latinas in these fields. Dr. Valdez also highlights the importance of supporting graduate education and providing resources to combat these challenges, advocating for organizations to create environments where leadership development is accessible to all.

    She dives into the frameworks of authentic leadership and resiliency theory, which have shaped her research and recommendations for positive change. With a strong focus on family dynamics and cultural influences, Dr. Valdez shares how organizations can better support Latinas in their leadership journeys, creating a more inclusive environment for future generations of leaders.

    Tune in for a deep and meaningful conversation on diversity, leadership, and how we can foster greater opportunities for Latinas in business and education.

    Featured Guest

    Dr. Claudia Valdez
    Administrative Services Manager, Cal Baptist University

    I have had an interesting upbringing, being born in Germany and growing up in Southern California. This has instilled in me a love for learning and travel, as I believe that exploring new cultures and ideas is key to personal and professional growth.

    Currently, I work as a higher education professional, where my main focus is creating opportunities for others to develop and succeed. Specifically, I support Academic Affairs within my institution, working closely with faculty, staff, and students. I find great joy in helping others!

    I am passionate about professional development and believe in the power of networking and continuous learning. I regularly attend events outside of my organization, including leadership conferences, women in leadership events, and workshops on various subjects. This allows me to stay up-to-date with industry trends and expand my skill set.

    One of my strengths is my ability to help others recognize the transferable skills they possess. Having transitioned from the retail and banking industry to higher education, I understand the challenges and rewards that come with changing industries. I bring with me over ten years of experience in retail leadership, where I honed skills such as confidentiality, professionalism, mentorship, development, and training.

    In addition to these skills, I have also developed a range of other specialties, including leadership, interpersonal skills, communication, event planning, time management, problem-solving, and customer service. I am always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges.

    I am excited to connect with like-minded individuals and discuss opportunities for collaboration or mentorship. Whether you’re looking for guidance, a sounding board, or simply someone to share ideas with, feel free to reach out. Let’s make a difference together!

    Watch the Episode

    Interview Highlights

    3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.

    7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.

    8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.

    9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE. 

    13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.

    20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.

    21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.

    23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.

    25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues. 

    32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond. 

    36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.

    View our podcast page for more stories like this: https://gia.echofactory.dev/gia-podcasts/

    Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.