The K-12 Change Equation
The K-12 Change Equation
Podcast Description
The K-12 Change Equation explores how innovative education leaders are transforming their districts by solving for the variables that matter most in their communities. In each episode, hosts Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman dive deep into conversations with superintendents, policymakers, and education visionaries who are breaking free from standardized solutions to create lasting change.Drawing from their extensive experience in district leadership and transformation, our hosts guide discussions that bridge research and practice, exploring how successful leaders adapt broad educational strategies to serve their unique local contexts. From navigating post-pandemic recovery to building equitable systems, each episode unpacks the complex variables of educational change and reveals practical approaches to solving them.Education impacts us all, which is why this podcast is for everyone who cares about the future of learning in their community. Whether you're a superintendent seeking fresh perspectives, a district leader looking to drive meaningful change, an educator passionate about system-wide transformation, or a community member invested in your local schools' success, The K-12 Change Equation offers insights and strategies you can apply in your own community. We believe that lasting educational change happens when schools and communities work together, and our conversations reflect the vital role that engaged community members play in creating successful schools. Join us as we work together to solve for real change, made local.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into themes of educational transformation, community engagement, and leadership adaptation, with episodes that cover topics such as the balance between local innovation and central control and strategies for post-pandemic recovery. Specific discussions include the importance of student voice in decision-making and the effective implementation of equitable systems.

The K-12 Change Equation explores how innovative education leaders are transforming their districts by solving for the variables that matter most in their communities. In each episode, hosts Dr. Leila Nuland and Dr. Mort Sherman dive deep into conversations with superintendents, policymakers, and education visionaries who are breaking free from standardized solutions to create lasting change.
Drawing from their extensive experience in district leadership and transformation, our hosts guide discussions that bridge research and practice, exploring how successful leaders adapt broad educational strategies to serve their unique local contexts. From navigating post-pandemic recovery to building equitable systems, each episode unpacks the complex variables of educational change and reveals practical approaches to solving them.
Education impacts us all, which is why this podcast is for everyone who cares about the future of learning in their community. Whether you’re a superintendent seeking fresh perspectives, a district leader looking to drive meaningful change, an educator passionate about system-wide transformation, or a community member invested in your local schools’ success, The K-12 Change Equation offers insights and strategies you can apply in your own community. We believe that lasting educational change happens when schools and communities work together, and our conversations reflect the vital role that engaged community members play in creating successful schools. Join us as we work together to solve for real change, made local.
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On this episode of The K-12 Change Equation, Dr. Mort Sherman and Dr. Leila Nuland sit down with Ernesto Duran, Regional Director for California’s Region 8, about how county offices of education are creating systems that expand opportunity beyond the school day.
From after-school programs and workforce readiness to family engagement and mental health, Ernesto shares how expanded learning is helping students and educators thrive. He reflects on his own journey as an English learner and the educators who shaped his path—underscoring why connection, culture, and community still drive meaningful change.
It’s a conversation about leadership, empathy, and what it takes to turn compassion into action in today’s schools.
Join the conversation! Share your thoughts or questions you'd like us to answer.

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